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The Game Awards 2024: These 10 games deserved a GOTY nomination

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Ignacio Weil

Gaming - November 20th 2024, 19:00 GMT+1

About this gallery:

For this list, we decided to look at games released this year that *actually* should have been nominated for Game of the Year – because, let’s be real, some remakes and DLCs took up spots they probably didn’t deserve. Seriously, guys…

To make it even more heartbreaking, the top 4 games didn’t get a *single* nomination. That should honestly be a crime. If you think we missed any games that deserve a spot on this list, let us know in the comments!

| © Atlus

Cropped Stellar Blade — 10. Stellar Blade

Why wasn’t *Stellar Blade* nominated for GOTY? This sci-fi action RPG feels like a masterclass in storytelling and combat design. With stunning visuals and a protagonist who’s not just fighting for humanity but grappling with her own past, this game hit all the right emotional notes. The combat is fast, fluid, and stylish, offering a unique blend of strategy and adrenaline-pumping action. If you didn’t fall in love with this game, did you even play it? | © SHIFT UP

Zelda Echoes of Wisdom — 9. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

It’s baffling that *The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom* didn’t land a GOTY nomination. This sequel builds on everything that made its predecessors legendary, delivering an epic open-world adventure filled with puzzles, lore, and jaw-dropping views. Zelda's newest journey feels like a love letter to the fans of the princess, offering a perfect balance of nostalgia and innovation. If saving Hyrule doesn’t scream GOTY material, what does? | © Nintendo

8. Persona 3 Remake

Look, we’re usually against nominating remakes for GOTY – new games should get their time to shine. But if they’re going to do it anyway (*ahem, Resident Evil 4*), then *Persona 3 Remake* deserved its shot. This isn’t just a fresh coat of paint; it’s a reimagining of a classic that revolutionized RPGs. The emotional depth, enhanced visuals, and updated mechanics brought Tartarus to life in a way that even longtime fans couldn’t have imagined. If heartbreak, shadow-slaying, and a killer soundtrack don’t earn a nomination, what will? | © Atlus

Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth — 7. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Yakuza games (or *Like a Dragon*, if we’re being proper) always bring their A-game, and *Infinite Wealth* is no exception. Set in the sunny, chaotic playground of Hawaii, this game mixes heartfelt drama with absurd humor and incredibly satisfying combat. The mini-games alone could have earned it a nod – because who doesn’t want to learn how to survive in the wilderness while also beating up street thugs? GOTY-worthy? Absolutely. | © Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio

6. Helldivers 2

Imagine *Starship Troopers*, but as a co-op game, and you’ve got *Helldivers 2*. The chaotic, friendly-fire-filled fun of its missions makes this game an absolute blast to play with friends. With bigger bugs, better weapons, and more polished visuals than ever before, it’s the perfect recipe for GOTY greatness. Plus, any game that encourages you to “spread democracy” through explosions deserves all the awards. | © Arrowhead Game Studios

Warhammer 40000 Space Marine 2 — 5. Space Marine 2

The Warhammer 40K universe finally got the sequel it deserved with *Space Marine 2*. This game didn’t just slap a fresh coat of paint on its predecessor – it doubled down on epic battles, heart-pounding combat, and grotesque alien foes. Few games deliver this level of pure power fantasy. Smashing Tyranids with a chainsword has never been so satisfying. How did this not make the cut? | © Saber Interactive

1000x RESIST — 4. 1000xRESIST

A deeply underappreciated gem, *1000xRESIST* dives into a surreal, dystopian world that feels like a fever dream in the best way possible. Its unique narrative and striking visuals make it stand out in a sea of formulaic games. Tackling themes of identity, resistance, and what it means to be human, this indie darling deserved more attention – and a shot at GOTY glory. | © Sunset Visitor

3. Palworld

*Palworld* is Pokémon on steroids, and honestly, we’re here for it. This game throws you into a vibrant world filled with adorable creatures that can, you know, also man a Gatling gun. It’s bizarre, hilarious, and surprisingly deep, offering a fresh twist on creature-collecting games. The mix of whimsy and absurdity deserved to be recognized on a bigger stage. GOTY-worthy? Palso-lutely. | © Pocketpair

2. Satisfactory

Who knew factory-building could be so addictive? *Satisfactory* turns the mundane into the magnificent, letting players design intricate production lines in a stunning alien world. It’s a perfect mix of creativity and strategy, offering hours of pure, meditative fun – or chaotic disasters, depending on your engineering skills. Not nominating this was a logistical error. | © Coffee Stain Studios

1. Nine Sols

It’s an absolute crime that *Nine Sols* didn’t get a single nomination. This action-packed 2D platformer combines stunning hand-drawn visuals with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack and a narrative that cuts deep. Its unique blend of Sekiro-style combat and Taiwanese folklore makes it one of the most original games of the year. How this didn’t make the GOTY shortlist is beyond us. | © Red Candle Games

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Every year, The Game Awards celebrates the best of gaming, highlighting the most innovative, engaging, and downright jaw-dropping titles. But let’s face it – no list of nominees is ever without controversy. While the official Game of the Year contenders are impressive, some incredible games didn’t make the cut.

Whether they flew under the radar or just missed the mark, these 10 titles absolutely deserved a shot at the GOTY crown. Let’s dive into the games we believe were robbed of their time in the spotlight!

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Every year, The Game Awards celebrates the best of gaming, highlighting the most innovative, engaging, and downright jaw-dropping titles. But let’s face it – no list of nominees is ever without controversy. While the official Game of the Year contenders are impressive, some incredible games didn’t make the cut.

Whether they flew under the radar or just missed the mark, these 10 titles absolutely deserved a shot at the GOTY crown. Let’s dive into the games we believe were robbed of their time in the spotlight!