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The Game of the Year 2023: Predicting the Winner and Exploring the Contenders

The year 2023 was an absolute behemoth for gaming, a veritable cornucopia of titles that have redefined genres and captivated players worldwide. So, the million-dollar question: What game is going to win Game of the Year 2023? While any number of titles could win, the smart money is on Baldur’s Gate 3. Larian Studios has crafted a masterpiece that is poised to take home the gold. Its depth, player agency, and sheer scope are unmatched, setting a new standard for RPGs and creating an unforgettable experience.

The Contenders: A Deep Dive into the GOTY Nominees

While Baldur’s Gate 3 is the frontrunner, the GOTY race is never a foregone conclusion. A strong field of contenders made 2023 the great year it was, and each deserves consideration. Let’s break down the most likely nominees:

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom delivered on the monumental expectations set by its predecessor, Breath of the Wild. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, vast open world, and compelling story have resonated with millions. While it’s an incredible achievement, its iterative nature compared to Baldur’s Gate 3’s groundbreaking approach may be a disadvantage.

Starfield

Bethesda’s spacefaring epic, Starfield, promised the boundless exploration and intricate world-building the studio is known for. It delivered a vast universe to explore and build in. However, some critics found its gameplay loop and narrative less engaging than previous Bethesda titles, potentially impacting its GOTY chances.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Insomniac Games swung back into action with Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, offering a refined combat system, a compelling narrative, and stunning visuals. The dual-protagonist storyline and expanded open world were significant improvements, making it a strong contender. Its accessibility and broad appeal give it an edge.

Resident Evil 4

Capcom’s Resident Evil 4 remake was not just a remake; it was a reimagining. The game delivered a thrilling experience while honoring the original, cementing its status as one of the best survival horror games ever made. However, its genre limitations might hinder its chances against more diverse RPG experiences.

Sea of Stars

Sabotage Studio’s Sea of Stars is a love letter to classic JRPGs, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Its beautiful pixel art, engaging combat, and charming characters have won over many hearts. While it’s an excellent game, its smaller scope and niche appeal may limit its GOTY potential.

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon

FromSoftware’s Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon brought mech combat back into the spotlight. The game is a blend of challenging gameplay and deep customization options. Its appeal is more niche than the other contenders, so it is less likely to win.

The Jury: Who Decides Game of the Year?

Understanding who selects the GOTY winner is crucial. Typically, nominees are chosen by a diverse international jury comprising over 100 global media and influencer outlets known for their critical evaluation of video games. Specialized juries may convene for specific categories like esports, accessibility, and best adaptation. The collective perspective of these experts is what shapes the final decision.

Factors Influencing the GOTY Decision

Several key factors influence the selection of the Game of the Year:

Innovation: Does the game introduce new mechanics, narratives, or technologies?
Impact: How significantly does the game influence the industry or its genre?
Execution: How well is the game designed, implemented, and polished?
Player Experience: Does the game provide a memorable and engaging experience for players?
Critical Reception: What do professional reviewers and critics say about the game?

Why Baldur’s Gate 3 Stands Out

Baldur’s Gate 3’s advantage stems from its extraordinary blend of depth, freedom, and quality. The sheer number of choices available to the player, combined with the game’s intricate narrative and outstanding characters, creates a uniquely immersive experience. Larian’s commitment to player agency and responsiveness to player actions is unparalleled. This meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence sets it apart from the competition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Game of the Year 2023

1. What are the key criteria used to determine Game of the Year?

The main criteria include innovation, impact, execution, player experience, and critical reception. Games are evaluated on their ability to push boundaries, influence the industry, deliver polished gameplay, engage players meaningfully, and garner positive reviews.

2. How important are review scores in determining the Game of the Year?

Review scores are important, but not decisive. While high scores indicate quality and appeal, the GOTY selection panel also considers factors like innovation and long-term impact, which may not be fully captured in a numerical score.

3. Can a remake or remaster win Game of the Year?

Yes, a remake or remaster can win Game of the Year, but it needs to offer significant improvements and innovations over the original. A faithful recreation alone is unlikely to win. The Resident Evil 4 remake might have a chance, but it has a lower chance compared to titles introducing novel ideas.

4. How does a game’s commercial success affect its chances of winning Game of the Year?

Commercial success can influence GOTY decisions, as it demonstrates broad appeal and impact. However, it’s not the only factor. A commercially successful game must also demonstrate quality, innovation, and critical acclaim.

5. Are indie games ever considered for Game of the Year?

Yes, indie games are absolutely considered for Game of the Year. Their smaller budgets or lack of marketing power don’t disqualify them if they offer exceptional innovation, storytelling, or gameplay.

6. What role do gaming communities and player feedback play in GOTY discussions?

Gaming communities and player feedback play a significant role. Their enthusiasm and engagement can sway opinions and highlight aspects of a game that might be overlooked by professional critics.

7. Is there a bias toward certain genres in Game of the Year selections?

There is no inherent bias, but certain genres, like RPGs and open-world adventures, often receive more attention due to their potential for depth, complexity, and broad appeal. That said, a truly exceptional game from any genre can win.

8. How often does the frontrunner actually win Game of the Year?

The frontrunner doesn’t always win, but they often do. Surprise upsets can occur when a dark horse game unexpectedly resonates with the jury or demonstrates exceptional qualities that were initially underestimated.

9. What is the significance of winning Game of the Year?

Winning Game of the Year is a prestigious honor that brings widespread recognition and acclaim. It boosts sales, enhances the developer’s reputation, and can solidify the game’s place in video game history.

10. How does a game’s accessibility features influence GOTY considerations?

Accessibility features are becoming increasingly important. Games that make efforts to be inclusive and cater to a wide range of players are viewed favorably.

11. Can a game with significant technical issues still win Game of the Year?

It’s unlikely, but not impossible. Significant technical issues can detract from the overall player experience and negatively impact review scores, making it harder for a game to win. However, if the game’s other qualities are truly exceptional, it might still have a chance.

12. What is the Games Learning Society?

The Games Learning Society, or GamesLearningSociety.org, is a group of scholars dedicated to studying games and learning. You can learn more about their work at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

13. How long does the GOTY selection process typically take?

The GOTY selection process usually spans several weeks or months, involving multiple rounds of evaluation, discussion, and voting among the jury members.

14. Are there any specific games that were surprisingly snubbed in previous GOTY awards?

Numerous games have been surprisingly snubbed. Examples include titles that received critical acclaim and strong player reception but were overlooked due to competition or jury preferences.

15. What is the overall impact of Game of the Year awards on the video game industry?

Game of the Year awards have a significant impact on the video game industry. They shape consumer perceptions, influence purchasing decisions, and set benchmarks for quality and innovation. They also inspire developers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming.

In conclusion, while the race is tight and full of worthy contenders, Baldur’s Gate 3 is best positioned to claim the Game of the Year 2023 title, but other games have also provided unique experiences worth appreciating.