
PlayStation Game of the Year 2024: Winners Revealed | Image Source: blog.playstation.com
NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2024 — The results for the PlayStation Game of the Year 2024 awards are in, following a global poll that garnered over 1.6 million votes. As stated by the official PlayStation Blog, fans worldwide cast their votes across 19 categories to celebrate the most outstanding achievements in gaming this year. These accolades reflect the creativity and innovation brought to life on PlayStation consoles, showcasing both fresh titles and revisited classics.
The categories covered a broad spectrum of gaming accomplishments, from storytelling and art direction to audio design and ongoing games. As per the blog, new titles were the focus of several categories, while others acknowledged significant updates to ongoing games or enhanced rereleases. A few notable exclusions, such as “Grand Theft Auto VI” from the Most Anticipated Game category, allowed newer entries to shine.
Best New Character
Among the most hotly contested categories, Best New Character drew significant write-in votes, highlighting global engagement. According to PlayStation, Eve from “Stellar Blade” took home the Platinum Trophy, standing out among a roster of compelling characters. Jane Harrow from “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6” secured the Gold Trophy, with Emmrich Volkarin from “Dragon Age: The Veilguard” and Ryoma Sakamoto from “Rise of the Rōnin” claiming the Silver and Bronze Trophies, respectively. This category celebrated not just innovation but the emotional depth characters brought to their stories.
Artistry and Storytelling
“Silent Hill 2” emerged as the Best Story winner, captivating audiences with its nuanced narrative. The Platinum Trophy-winning remake from Bloober Team and Konami reimagined the PS2 classic while retaining its haunting essence. The Gold Trophy went to “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth,” which offered a rich continuation of its beloved saga. Other notable mentions included “Stellar Blade” and “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6,” which earned the Silver and Bronze Trophies, respectively.
When it came to art and visuals, “Black Myth: Wukong” stood out as the Best Graphical Showcase, its stunning environments and detailed combat sequences earning the Platinum Trophy. Meanwhile, Team Asobi’s “Astro Bot” triumphed in Best Art Direction, blending nostalgia with groundbreaking creativity to deliver a vibrant platforming experience. The competition included “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth,” “Silent Hill 2,” and “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero.”
Achievements in Audio and Accessibility
Audio design and accessibility were celebrated extensively this year. “Astro Bot” claimed the Platinum Trophies in both Best Audio Design and Best Accessibility Features. As noted by PlayStation, Team Asobi crafted a game that was both an auditory masterpiece and highly inclusive, using innovative design to enhance the gaming experience for all players. Runner-ups included “Silent Hill 2” and “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth,” recognized for their auditory depth and accessible gameplay elements.
For Best Soundtrack, “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth” took the lead, with its orchestral enhancements of iconic tracks captivating players. The Gold, Silver, and Bronze Trophies went to “Astro Bot,” “Stellar Blade,” and “Silent Hill 2,” respectively, underscoring the diverse range of musical excellence in 2024’s gaming landscape.
Best Independent and Multiplayer Games
The independent gaming scene flourished in 2024, with “Balatro” earning the Platinum Trophy for Best Independent Game. Its unique take on roguelite mechanics, fused with a poker-inspired gameplay loop, resonated with audiences. Other winners included “Palworld,” “Phasmophobia,” and “Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 (Flat Version).”
In multiplayer gaming, “Helldivers 2” secured the Platinum Trophy for Best Multiplayer Experience, celebrated for its cooperative gameplay and tactical depth. “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6” followed with the Gold Trophy, while “Fortnite” and “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero” rounded out the category. As stated by PlayStation, “Helldivers 2” exemplified teamwork and strategic engagement in the multiplayer space.
Best Rereleases and Ongoing Games
Rereleases were also in the spotlight, with “The Last of Us Part II Remastered” earning the Platinum Trophy for its visual upgrades and enhanced gameplay modes. “Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered” and “Tomb Raider I-III Remastered” showcased the enduring appeal of beloved classics, securing the Gold and Silver Trophies, respectively.
“Fortnite” continued its reign as the Best Ongoing Game, its constant evolution keeping players engaged. PlayStation highlighted its innovative modes, such as LEGO building and FPS gameplay, alongside collaborations with popular franchises. “Final Fantasy XIV Online” and “Call of Duty” were also recognized for their consistent updates and thriving communities.
Studio of the Year and Most Anticipated Game
Team Asobi claimed the Studio of the Year title, celebrated for its work on “Astro Bot” and its dedication to accessible and innovative gameplay. The studio’s ability to evoke nostalgia while delivering fresh experiences left a lasting impression on players. Other honored studios included Bandai Namco, Shift Up, and Arrowhead Games.
Looking ahead, the Most Anticipated Game of 2025 and Beyond was awarded to “Ghost of Yōtei,” a Sucker Punch production promising samurai action and exploration. “Marvel’s Wolverine,” “Death Stranding 2: On the Beach,” and “Monster Hunter Wilds” also generated excitement, with their release dates highly anticipated by fans worldwide.
With its diverse and dynamic lineup, 2024 has been a landmark year for PlayStation, celebrating creativity, innovation, and player engagement. These awards not only honor the games but also the communities that bring them to life.