The gaming world is buzzing with anticipation as the prestigious Game Developers Choice Awards 2026 nominees have been unveiled! But one game has stolen the spotlight, leaving fans and critics alike in awe. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is the star of the show, securing an impressive eight nominations in nine categories.
In the hotly contested Game of the Year category, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will battle it out with five other exceptional titles. These include the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong, the charming Blue Prince, Nintendo's action-packed Donkey Kong Bananza, the narrative-driven Split Fiction, and the critically acclaimed Ghost of Yōtei.
And here's where it gets interesting: Ghost of Yōtei, developed by Sucker Punch Productions, has also captured the judges' attention with five nominations. It's recognized for its captivating storytelling, immersive audio, stunning visuals, and innovative technology. But will it be enough to dethrone Clair Obscur: Expedition 33?
Donkey Kong Bananza, a fan-favorite, is hot on their heels with four nominations, while the highly anticipated sequel Death Stranding 2: On the Beach secures three nominations.
These finalists were handpicked by the exclusive GDCA International Choice Awards Network, a group of elite game creators. The winners will be revealed at the GDCA ceremony on March 12, 2026, as part of the GDC Festival of Gaming in San Francisco.
But the excitement doesn't end there! The Independent Games Festival awards ceremony will also take place on March 11, showcasing the best indie games. Both events will be streamed live on Twitch, allowing fans worldwide to witness the celebration of gaming excellence.
Now, let's dive into the full list of nominations and explore the diverse range of games that have captivated the industry this year. Which titles do you think will take home the coveted awards? And which games do you believe deserve more recognition? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
