The 2024 Golden Joystick Awards, one of the most prestigious events in the gaming world, took place on November 21. The live broadcast revealed the winners of 19 categories, including Best Storytelling, Best Audio, and the Ultimate Game of the Year. With over 12 million votes cast, this year’s awards celebrated the standout games of 2024, highlighting both major releases and indie gems. Among the big winners were Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Helldivers 2, Black Myth: Wukong, and Astro Bot.
The Biggest Winners of the Night
The Golden Joystick Awards are known for recognizing excellence in video games across various categories, and 2024 was no different. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth dominated the evening, taking home four awards. It won Best Storytelling, Best Soundtrack, and two acting awards for its leading performers: Cody Christian (Cloud) and Briana White (Aerith).
Helldivers 2 also had a strong showing, claiming three awards out of five nominations, including Best Multiplayer Game, Best Game Trailer, and Console Game of the Year. Astro Bot’s developer, Team Asobi, walked away with Studio of the Year and Best Audio Design for Astro Bot.
But the most coveted award of the night, Ultimate Game of the Year, went to Black Myth: Wukong, the debut game from Game Science. This win marks a significant achievement for the studio and its ambitious project. Black Myth: Wukong also earned Best Visual Design, solidifying its place as one of 2024’s top games.
Notable Wins in Other Categories
This year’s Golden Joystick Awards had several standout winners across multiple categories:
- Best Indie Game: Balatro, a roguelike deck builder, took home two awards.
- Best Game Expansion: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree claimed this prestigious honor.
- Best Gaming Hardware: The Steam Deck OLED won recognition for its cutting-edge technology.
- Still Playing Award (PC & Console): Minecraft continues to be a fan favorite, winning this category once again.
- Most Wanted Game: Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of GTA 6, which claimed this award.
- Critics’ Choice Award: Helldivers 2 earned the title for its innovative gameplay and dynamic features.
- Best Game Trailer: The trailer for Helldivers 2 captivated the gaming community, securing this win.
- Streamers’ Choice Award: Chained Together caught the attention of the streaming community, winning in this category.
A Historic Year for Indie Games
The indie game community was well-represented at the Golden Joystick Awards 2024. Balatro won Best Indie Game and Critics’ Choice for its unique gameplay mechanics. Another Crab’s Treasure received Best Indie Game (Self-published), while Lethal Company and Chained Together also took home awards, showcasing the diversity and creativity in the indie scene.
Ultimate Game of the Year: Black Myth: Wukong
The night’s biggest winner, Black Myth: Wukong, shocked many by clinching the Ultimate Game of the Year award. The game’s stunning visual design and deep narrative made it a favorite among players and critics alike. Black Myth: Wukong’s victory highlights the growing influence of debut studios in the gaming industry, with Game Science’s innovative approach to game development gaining worldwide recognition.
How Voting Works / Game of the year vote
The Golden Joystick Awards allow players to directly influence the outcome through public voting. Over 12 million votes were cast this year, showing the strong engagement of the gaming community. Voting for the Ultimate Game of the Year was separate from the main categories, giving fans additional time to experience the major releases of 2024. Categories like Best Studio, Best Audio Design, and Most Wanted Game received immense attention, with nominees carefully selected by a panel of experts in the industry.
Recap of Key Golden Joystick 2024 Awards: Winner
- Best Storytelling: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Best Multiplayer Game: Helldivers 2
- Best Visual Design: Black Myth: Wukong
- Studio of the Year: Team Asobi (Astro Bot)
- Best Indie Game: Balatro
- Best Game Expansion: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
- Best Game Trailer: Helldivers 2
- Ultimate Game of the Year: Black Myth: Wukong
Final Thoughts on the Golden Joystick Awards 2024
The Golden Joystick Awards 2024 once again proved to be a celebration of the best the gaming world has to offer. From Final Fantasy VII Rebirth’s sweeping wins to the stunning debut of Black Myth: Wukong, the awards highlighted both the talent of established studios and the emerging power of indie creators. The recognition given to Helldivers 2 and Astro Bot also reflects the ongoing innovation in multiplayer and game design.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, these awards shine a spotlight on the creativity, storytelling, and technical advancements that keep players engaged and excited for what’s to come. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed multiplayer games or narrative-driven adventures, the 2024 Golden Joystick Awards showcased a diverse range of exceptional titles.
For those looking forward to next year’s competition, the Golden Joystick Awards have set the bar high, ensuring that 2025 will be another exciting year in gaming.