Game of the Year
For a title that defines the year in gaming through bold design, technical excellence, and innovation that delivers an unforgettable experience.
Excellence in Visual Art
For outstanding achievement in visual arts and styling, elevating the medium through innovative methods, fresh techniques and breath-taking visuals..
Excellence in Gameplay
For outstanding achievement in the field of gameplay through high quality, engaging design and innovation.
Excellence in Narrative
For outstanding achievement in the field of storytelling, creative structure and innovative narrative design.
Excellence in Sound Design
For outstanding achievement in the field of sound design, audio engineering and voice acting.
Excellence in Music
For outstanding achievement in the field of music, composition, and musical tone.
Excellence in Accessibility
For outstanding achievement in the field of accessibility, in impact, inclusion and a reminder that gaming is for all.
Excellence in Mobile (Postponed until 2027)
For outstanding achievement in engaging, innovative and immersive mobile game design.
Excellence in Extended Reality
For outstanding achievement in the field of creating engaging, innovative, and immersive experiences using virtual and augmented reality technologies.
Excellence in Impact
For outstanding achievement in the creation of games that educate, inspire or drive meaningful change in attitudes or behaviours.
Excellence In Ongoing
For outstanding achievement in Games as a Service, recognising excellence in ongoing design, community engagement, and player onboarding.
Excellence in Debut
For outstanding achievement by first-time developers, recognising clear creative vision, exceptional execution, and the successful delivery of their first major game.
Studio of the Year
The Studio of the Year of the award honours a studio that stands as a testament of what an Australian Studio can be.
This studio demonstrates outstanding excellence in impressive business operations and policies, incredible products, amazing projects and creating opportunities for the Australian games industry.
The Adam Lancman Award
The Adam Lancman Award (excellence in the industry) honours an individual or individuals who have helped the game industry advance to a better place, either through facilitating a better game community from within, or by reaching outside the industry to advocate for video games.
To learn more about Adam, his life and contribution to the Australian games industry, click here.
The Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award honours those who have made significant contributions to the Australian Games Industry in the past 1 – 5 years. They have become invaluable members to the community and show immense talent in their field, constantly working to facilitate a better space for the local industry.
For more details on the judging process, please see our Eligibility and Judging Rubric.
