TGA "Player's Voice" Voting Now Open for Best Game

The highly anticipated voting for the "Player's Voice" award at The Game Awards 2024 kicked off today, December 3rd. This annual event allows players to select their favorite games from a shortlist that includes major titles like "FF7 Rebirth," "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Golden Tree," "Black Myth: Wukong," and "Metaphor: ReFantazio." Notably, this year’s nominees aren’t limited to games released in 2024; long-running titles such as "FF14" and "Valorant" also made the cut.

As in previous years, the voting process will unfold over three rounds. The first round, which began today, features 30 games. The second round will commence on December 5th, where the top ten games from the first round will compete. The third and final round will take place on December 9th, narrowing it down to the top five games from the second round. The ultimate winner will be announced during the awards ceremony on December 12th.

Controversies from Previous Years

The "Player's Voice" voting has a history of drama, particularly evident in the 2022 showdown between "Genshin Impact" and "Sonic Frontiers." During that year, MiHoYo, the developer behind "Genshin Impact," controversially incentivized players by distributing in-game rewards to encourage votes, raising eyebrows and sparking accusations of bribery within the gaming community. This led to a backlash from fans of "Sonic," culminating in a heated final round where "Genshin Impact" faced off against "Sonic Frontiers." Ultimately, "Genshin Impact" emerged victorious.

Potential for New Rivalries

This year, "Black Myth: Wukong," which represents a significant hope for Chinese gaming, is considered a strong contender for the top prize. With its richly detailed world and engaging gameplay, it’s poised to attract considerable player support. However, whether it will spark similar rivalries as seen in past years remains to be seen. The gaming community is eagerly watching to see if factions will form around this title, potentially leading to intense voting battles.

Expanded Voting and Community Engagement

The structure of the voting process not only maintains excitement but also encourages greater community involvement. Players are motivated to rally their friends and fellow gamers to support their favorite titles, fostering a sense of camaraderie and competition. Social media platforms are already buzzing with discussions and campaigns as players strategize their voting efforts.

Impact on Game Developers

The outcome of the "Player's Voice" award can significantly impact game developers and their future projects. A win can boost a game's visibility and sales, while a strong showing in the voting can enhance a developer's reputation within the industry. As such, many studios are closely monitoring the trends and sentiments of the voting community to inform their marketing strategies and future game developments.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Gaming Awards

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, awards like The Game Awards play a crucial role in recognizing excellence within the industry. The introduction of community-driven voting categories not only democratizes the process but also highlights the importance of player feedback in shaping the gaming experience. The anticipation surrounding this year's event underscores the growing influence of the gaming community on award outcomes.