As The Game Awards 2023, set for December 7, draws near, fan anticipation for the announcement of the Players’ Voice award winner is at an all-time high. This particular award is unique as it’s a chance for audiences to have their say and vote for the title they believe is most deserving of recognition. This year’s final set of nominees for the award reflect a diverse range of genres and gaming experiences, showcasing the vast landscape of modern gaming.
The final nominees for the Players’ Voice award are a mix of expected juggernauts and surprising entries. Leading the pack is Baldur’s Gate 3, a title that has captivated gamers with its immersive world and rich storytelling. It stands as a beacon of exceptional game design and has been tipped by many as the favorite to win the Players’ Voice award and potentially Game of the Year as well. Its impact has been profound, with players and critics alike praising its depth and complexity.
Joining Baldur’s Gate 3 in the race is Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty. This nomination is particularly noteworthy as it represents the extension and the remarkable turnaround of Cyberpunk 2077 following its troubled launch. The inclusion of this DLC has even started talks of whether Geoff Keighley should reconsider adding a new award or two.
Genshin Impact also makes a surprising entry into the final five. Despite being in the market for three years already, its continuous updates and engaging content have kept the game relevant and beloved by its massive spending-friendly player base. Its nomination breaks the conventional boundaries of platform-specific recognition, highlighting the growing importance and impact of mobile gaming in the industry.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 joins the list as well, bringing superhero action to the forefront. While the award-winning follow-up has been critiqued for not fully capitalizing on its potential, with some fans feeling it fell short in certain aspects in comparison to its predecessors, it remains a favorite among many for its engaging gameplay and narrative.
Rounding out the list is The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. This title carries the weight of its legendary best-selling franchise and has been praised for building upon its predecessor’s success. It stands out as a sequel that not only meets but, in many ways, surpasses the high expectations set by the iconic series.
The exclusion of Hogwarts Legacy from the final nominees, despite its popularity and commercial success, indicates the highly competitive nature of the award this year. It’s a reminder that sales alone don’t guarantee critical acclaim or fan recognition. Similarly, Starfield’s absence from the list, despite its nomination for Best RPG, reflects the varied criteria gamers use to judge their favorite titles. Although it probably didn’t help that public opinion on Starfield has crashed and nearly burned in recent weeks.
The Players’ Voice award offers a platform for gamers to voice their opinions and influence the recognition of games that have impacted them the most. As fans cast their votes, the anticipation builds for which game will emerge as the community’s top choice. The diverse range of nominees highlights the rich variety of experiences available in modern gaming, each offering unique worlds, stories, and adventures that resonate with different segments. The winner, to be announced at The Game Awards, will not only receive the accolade but also the honor of being the game that truly captured the hearts of players this year.
