The nominations for the highly anticipated public-voted Steam Awards have finally been revealed. However, this year’s list has left me feeling perplexed and somewhat skeptical. It seems that the influence of games with large multiplayer communities has taken center stage, potentially affecting the integrity of the voting process. Let’s dive deeper into the list and explore some of the questionable nominations.
Game of the Year Award:
The nominees for this prestigious award include Resident Evil 4, Hogwarts Legacy, Lethal Company, Baldur’s Gate 3, and EA Sports FC 24. While all these games have their merits, the inclusion of EA Sports FC 24 raises eyebrows. Is it truly worthy of being placed alongside such groundbreaking titles?
VR Game of the Year Award:
Gorilla Tag, I Expect You To Die 3, Labyrinthine, F1 23, and Ghosts Of Tabor are vying for the VR Game of the Year Award. While these titles certainly offer immersive experiences, it is essential to critically evaluate their overall impact and innovation within the VR gaming landscape.
Labor of Love Award:
Red Dead Redemption 2, Dota 2, Deep Rock Galactic, Rust, and Apex Legends have earned nominations in this category. These games have undoubtedly garnered dedicated fan bases over the years, but does their longevity inherently make them more deserving than other potential contenders?
Best Game on Steam Deck Award:
The Outlast Trials, Dredge, Diablo 4, Brotato, and Hogwarts Legacy are competing for this award. However, it is essential to question whether these graphically demanding games truly excel on the Steam Deck compared to more casual and accessible titles like Dave The Diver.
Outstanding Visual Style Award:
Atomic Heart, High On Life, Cocoon, Darkest Dungeon 2, and Inward have been nominated for this particular accolade. While these games may offer visually stunning experiences, it is crucial to consider whether they also deliver on other aspects, such as gameplay mechanics and narrative.
Most Innovative Gameplay Award:
Your Only Move Is Hustle, Remnant 2, Shadows Of Doubt, Contraband Police, and Starfield are up for this award. While Starfield’s nomination seems questionable given its limited information available thus far, it is worth exploring whether these games truly push the boundaries of innovation in gameplay.
Best Game You Suck At Award:
Sifu, Lords Of The Fallen, Overwatch, EA Sports FC 24, and Street Fighter 6 compete in this category. One cannot help but question the inclusion of EA Sports FC 24 as the best game one would struggle with, especially considering the numerous challenging platformers and roguelikes released this year.
Voting for the Steam Awards opens on December 21st, coinciding with the highly anticipated Steam winter sale. Gamers will have until January 2nd to cast their votes, while the sale itself will continue until January 4th. The Steam Awards website provides a comprehensive overview of all the nominees, allowing players to make informed decisions.
The Steam Awards 2022 nominations have left many scratching their heads. The dominance of certain genres and the questionable selection criteria raise concerns about the credibility of these awards. As voting season begins, it is important for participants to critically analyze the nominations and ensure their voices align with their genuine gaming experiences.
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