An update to the FAQ on the event's official website notes: "The Game Awards aims to recognise the best creative and technical work each year, irrespective of the format of that content's release. Expansion packs, new game seasons, DLCs, remakes and remasters are eligible in all categories, if the jury deems the new creative and technical work to be worthy of a nomination."
The statement goes on to underline that "newness of the content and its price/value should be taken into consideration". With the ballots now closed, Polygon reports that voters were aware of these rules prior to submitting their nominations.
While the language in the FAQ is new, it's unclear if The Game Awards has always had this policy. For example, last year's Cyberpunk 2077 expansion, Phantom Liberty, was a highly acclaimed release – although it never made the overall Game of the Year nominations. It was nominated for Best Narrative, however, so we suppose this is consistent with the above message.
Nevertheless, we suspect this statement has been released now because Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has made the cut and will be one of the Game of the Year nominations set to be announced on Monday, but we're not sure how we feel about that. Perhaps a different category for Best DLC would work better here?
It's also interesting that in-game seasons are now also eligible for Game of the Year. That means, in theory, you could have a Fortnite season or Honkai: Star Rail patch competing against Astro Bot and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Obviously we don't think a scenario like that will occur, but it would be allowed per the above rules.
The Game Awards nominations and ultimate winners are determined by a panel of media and influencers from around the world, who submit their picks. The public also get a 10% say on the final outcome across all categories. Push Square is not part of the voting jury because we're a single format website.
How do you feel about DLC or remasters being considered for Game of the Year? What would your reaction be if Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree won the top gong this year?
The Game Awards Confirms DLC, Remasters Can Win Game of the Year Days Prior to Nominations Reveal
Interesting timing
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