▼ Summary
– The video game industry’s June showcases, now centered around Summer Game Fest, help outline the second-half release schedule and potential Game of the Year (GOTY) contenders.
– Microsoft announced key titles like Ninja Gaiden 4, The Outer Worlds 2, and Keeper, with Keeper standing out as a potential GOTY nominee due to its unique concept and studio reputation.
– Hollow Knight: Silksong, confirmed for 2025, could be a strong indie contender, though it faces competition from other indie games like Blue Prince and Hades 2.
– Silent Hill f, releasing in September, is a dark horse GOTY candidate, but its success depends on reviews and developer NeoBards’ execution.
– Death Stranding 2 and Ghost of Yōtei are major AAA contenders, but Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 currently leads the GOTY race due to its critical acclaim and strong reception.
The annual Summer Game Fest in June offers a glimpse into the gaming industry’s biggest releases for the second half of the year, setting the stage for potential Game of the Year contenders. While this year’s showcases didn’t produce as many obvious frontrunners as in previous years, a few standout titles have emerged as strong candidates for December’s prestigious awards ceremony.
Microsoft made waves by confirming release dates for several high-profile games, including Ninja Gaiden 4, The Outer Worlds 2, and the newly unveiled Keeper from Double Fine. Though Ninja Gaiden’s action-heavy gameplay rarely secures GOTY nods, Obsidian’s RPG sequel has a stronger chance, assuming it avoids the divisive reception of some of the studio’s past work. Keeper, however, stands out as a potential awards darling. With its visually stunning, wordless narrative and the pedigree of Double Fine behind it, this mysterious adventure could make a serious splash if reviews align with expectations.
Another long-awaited title, Hollow Knight: Silksong, finally locked in a 2025 release, giving fans hope for a sequel that could surpass its predecessor’s cult status. While the original game flew under the radar at The Game Awards in 2017, its enduring legacy might push the jury to recognize this follow-up, though it faces stiff competition from indie darlings like Blue Prince and Hades 2, should the latter exit early access this year.
Konami’s Silent Hill f, now slated for September, could also surprise as a dark horse contender. Horror games occasionally break into the GOTY conversation, and after the well-received Silent Hill 2 remake, critics will be watching closely to see if NeoBards can deliver another standout entry.
Beyond the Summer Game Fest announcements, two heavy hitters had already staked their claim earlier in the year: Death Stranding 2 and Ghost of Yōtei. Both PlayStation exclusives from Sony, a publisher with a formidable track record at The Game Awards, boast the kind of ambitious storytelling and AAA polish that typically resonates with voters.
Yet, despite these strong contenders, one game has steadily risen as the frontrunner: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Sandfall Interactive’s breakout RPG checks all the boxes for a GOTY winner, compelling narrative, refined mechanics, striking visuals, and widespread critical acclaim. Sitting atop Metacritic and OpenCritic’s rankings (excluding remasters), it has maintained momentum through post-launch discussions, making it the title to beat as awards season approaches.
With months still left before the final verdict, the race remains unpredictable. But for now, Clair Obscur holds a commanding lead in the hunt for gaming’s highest honor.
(Source: POLYGON)
