It Takes Two, a co-op adventure game developed by Hazelight Studios and published by Electronic Arts, won Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021. The ceremony, which honors the best video games, developers, and influencers in the industry, was hosted by creator Geoff Keighley and attended by industry leaders, celebrities, and fans. Other winners included Deathloop, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Life is Strange: True Colors. The Trailblazer Award went to Rafaela Grassetti, while the Industry Icon Award was presented to Hideo Kojima. The ceremony also showcased several game announcements, including Elden Ring and Star Wars: Eclipse.
Winners Announced at the Game Awards 2021
The Game Awards 2021, an annual ceremony that honors the best video games, developers, and influencers in the industry, took place on December 9 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. The ceremony was hosted by the show’s creator, Geoff Keighley, and attended by hundreds of game developers, industry leaders, celebrities, and fans.
Game of the Year
The biggest award of the night, Game of the Year, went to It Takes Two, a co-op adventure game developed by Hazelight Studios and published by Electronic Arts. The game, which tells the story of a couple on the brink of divorce who are turned into dolls and go on a wild journey to mend their relationship, was praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics, heartwarming narrative, and stunning visuals.
Other Award Winners
Here are the other winners of the Game Awards 2021:
- Best Game Direction: Deathloop
- Best Narrative: Guardians of the Galaxy
- Best Art Direction: Deathloop
- Best Score and Music: Deathloop
- Best Audio Design: Forza Horizon 5
- Best Performance: Maggie Robertson as Lady Dimitrescu in Resident Evil Village
- Games for Impact: Life is Strange: True Colors
- Best Indie Game: Kena: Bridge of Spirits
- Best Ongoing Game: Final Fantasy XIV Online
- Best Multiplayer Game: It Takes Two
- Best Mobile Game: Genshin Impact
- Best Community Support: Final Fantasy XIV Online
- Best Debut Indie Game: Kina: Bridge of Spirits
- Content Creator of the Year: Dream
Special Awards
Besides the main categories, The Game Awards 2021 also featured special awards and announcements, including:
Trailblazer Award
The Trailblazer Award went to Rafaela Grassetti, a concept artist and character designer who has worked on several blockbuster games such as God of War and Death Stranding. Grassetti was praised for her exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication to the industry.
Industry Icon Award
The Industry Icon Award, which recognizes lifetime achievements and contributions to the gaming world, was presented to Hideo Kojima, the legendary game developer and creator of the Metal Gear Solid series. Kojima was honored for his revolutionary vision, innovation, and unparalleled influence on the medium.
Game Announcements
The Game Awards 2021 also showcased several world premieres and game reveals, including:
- Elden Ring, an action role-playing game by FromSoftware and George R. R. Martin, scheduled for release on February 25, 2022.
- Star Wars: Eclipse, a new story-driven game set in the High Republic era developed by Quantic Dream.
- Wonder Woman: Beyond Gotham, a new superhero game by Rocksteady Studios and DC Comics.
Conclusion
The Game Awards 2021 was a thrilling and unforgettable night for gamers around the world, as it celebrated the best and brightest of the industry and gave a glimpse into the future of gaming. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees, and here’s to another amazing year of gaming!