Baldur’s Gate 3 was the frontrunner at the 2024 BAFTA Games Awards, but it didn’t sweep the ceremony as expected. Despite winning four awards, it only took home half of its 11 nominations. Other AAA titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of The Kingdom also failed to dominate, with limited wins in technical categories.
Indie games took the spotlight at the BAFTA Awards, with titles like Viewfinder, Venba, and Tchia receiving well-deserved recognition. On the other hand, big-budget games like Star Wars Jedi: Survivor and Final Fantasy XVI were left empty-handed. Host Phil Wang navigated the evening with humor and addressed important industry issues, setting the tone for the rest of the night.
Surprise wins included Venba for Best Debut Game, Alan Wake 2 for Audio Achievement, and Cyberpunk 2077 for Evolving Game. The ceremony also celebrated British charity SpecialEffect, which received the Special Award for its work in making gaming accessible to individuals with disabilities. Performances, speeches, and awards were highlights of the event, showcasing the talent and innovation in the gaming industry.
The winners list featured a mix of established franchises and new intellectual properties, with Viewfinder winning Best British Game and New Intellectual Property. Baldur’s Gate 3 took home multiple awards, including Narrative, Performer in a Supporting Role, Music, and Best Game. Super Mario Bros. Wonder also had a successful night, winning in the Multiplayer and Family categories.
Overall, the BAFTA Games Awards highlighted the diversity and innovation in the gaming industry, with indie titles shining alongside AAA games. The ceremony honored outstanding achievements in game design, storytelling, music, and accessibility. As the event celebrated its 20th anniversary, it continued to showcase the best in video game entertainment.
