Indie Triumphs: Balatro Named Best Game of 2024 at GDC Awards

This morning, the 25th anniversary of The Game Developers Choice Awards concluded, celebrating the most outstanding titles from the past year of 2024. This time, the indie sensation Balatro interrupted the winning streak of Astro Bot by claiming the prestigious title of «Game of the Year.»

Moreover, Balatro led the awards tally, triumphing in all four categories in which it was nominated. Below is the complete list of winners; as per tradition, the victors in each category are highlighted and positioned at the top:

Noteworthy mentions include: Animal Well, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Satisfactory , and UFO 50.

In another category, we have mentions for: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Helldivers 2, Satisfactory, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom , and UFO 50.

Additional noteworthy titles are: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Frostpunk 2, Life is Strange: Double Exposure, Neva, and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II.

In another section, the notable games include: Manor Lords, Mullet Madjack , and The Plucky Squire.

Recognitions also went to: Balatro, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II , and Tiny Glade.

Further mentions in this category are: Balatro, Lorelei and the Laser Eyes, Metaphor: ReFantazio, Neva , and the remake of Silent Hill 2.

Additional noteworthy games include: Animal Well, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Satisfactory , and Tekken 8.

Lastly, worthy mentions go to: Helldivers 2, Lorelei and the Laser Eyes, Thank Goodness You’re Here, The Plucky Squire, and Tiny Glade.

Notable mentions also include: Closer the Distance, Distant Bloom, Dragon Age: The Veilguard , and Tales of Kenzera: Zau.

A special award dedicated to individuals who help advance the industry was presented this year to indie developer Lucas Pope, renowned for his works like Papers, Please and Return of the Obra Dinn.

Another award that acknowledges individual contributions to the gaming sector was awarded to the charismatic creative director of Remedy Entertainment, Sam Lake.