8 Games That Didn’t Get Nominated at The Game Awards (But Should Have)

Best Art Direction

The Game Awards are almost here and it’s time to look over the vast list of games in each category to see what titles didn’t make the cut. Some bias will play into anything regarding reward shows, but we couldn’t help but notice a few important games weren’t up for nominations. It’s important to note that not every category is lacking, as many of them are actually fairly solid for their line-up.We’re also going to be limiting it to a maximum of three choices per entry. Sadly, these are the games that should have at least earned a nomination at The Game Awards.

I Am Setsuna: With three different independent titles nominated this year, it’s a shame the beautiful work of I Am Setsuna didn’t make the cut. This title’s gorgeous artwork mirrors that of a painting in motion, with the colors twisting and layering over one of each other. Combine this with the gorgeous character and level design to get one of the best looking games of the entire year.

Far Cry Primal: While we visited a plethora of different cities this year in gaming, but one of the most memorable settings was way in the past. Far Cry Primal’s realization of what the ancient world would look like was breathtaking and horrific, as the towering presence of nature looms around you. Animals and environments look great both from a distance and up close, lending Far Cry Primal a very organic feeling.

Final Fantasy XV:  Even though this title didn’t make the cut because of the nomination dates, we still felt that the wonderful art direction for this Final Fantasy installment is worth a mention. Not only are the cutscenes utterly stunning, but the design for the various creatures, weapons, outfits, and environments are also top notch. Square Enix did a wonderful job making every location feel truly unique, which allows this title to feel far more memorable because of it.

Best Mobile/Handheld

Pokemon Sun and Moon: Perhaps one of the best Pokemon games ever made, these two installments in this now legendary franchise surely deserve a spot on this list. Not only did they refine the formula, but the world of Aloha was also rich and truly wonderful to explore. Creature designs were top notch and the adjustments to the HM system were just what the Pokemon games needed. This was one for the ages and deserves every accolade that has come to it.

Zero Time Dilemma: This twisted and dark puzzle game is a wonderful treat for anyone looking for anything different. Zero Time Dilemma is an extremely challenging game, but one that always structured its clues and riddles in interesting ways. With an incredibly gripping story and compelling personalities, there is little reason that it shouldn’t be nominated for The Game Awards’ Best Handheld Title.

Best Performance

Elias Toufexis – Adam Jensen: For those who’ve played Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, you know the gravelly, yet unmistakable voice of cyber sleuth Adam Jensen. Not only is his range tested thanks to the plethora of dialogue choices a player can make, but Toufexis also brings a certain gravitas to the character. Plus, Toufexis does a wonderful job adding more depth and nuance to a role that could have very well been delivered in a monotonous voice. It allows the players to better know Jensen beyond his badass abilities and give him a lot more humanity. There’s little doubt in our minds that Toufexis deserves to stand alongside the other nominees at The Game Awards.

Darin De Paul – Ardyn Azunia: Unlike most villains, Ardyn is one that doesn’t rely on brute force but his ability to manipulate others. He’s a sly character with a multitude of layers that are all handled brilliantly by De Paul, who balances him just enough so this chancellor doesn’t slip into cartoonish villainy. It also helps that the performance really shows off a range of emotions, most of which are hidden masterfully behind the egotistical front that he always puts on. Ardyn steals the show whenever he’s on screen and it’s a pity such a character isn’t nominated this year.

Game of the Year

Watch Dogs 2: Given the positive critical reception to the follow-up of Watch Dogs, it’s surprising that this open world game didn’t make the cut. While it may not be perfect, though no game is, it offered a richly detailed world and interesting characters. Sure, the plot waned here and there, but this was a rock solid title with enjoyable gameplay mechanics. Plus, San Francisco was utterly gorgeous and one could get lost for hours exploring everything in the city alone.

Dark Souls III: This dread induced action-RPG is a near pinnacle for the Souls series thanks to gorgeous level design, challenging boss fights, and a near perfect refinement on the series mechanics. Battles never felt unfair, yet offered enough of a challenge that wouldn’t allow most veteran players to breeze right through it. The combat was tight and responsive, which was only enhanced by the powerful score that rang throughout each fight. It’s a testament to how simple adjustments to systems in place can enhance the experience as a whole for users.

Final Fantasy XV: Final Fantasy XV is perhaps the best RPG released this year and it more than deserves a spot among other fantastic titles like Doom, Overwatch, and Uncharted 4. While The Game Awards is already a crowded field of contenders, the fantastic combat, characters, and world design more than justify its position. This is a category that rewards excellence in all fields and Final Fantasy XV accomplishes that in strides, offering up one of the most unique experiences for both fans and newcomers alike.