What's Happening?
Steam users have selected Hollow Knight: Silksong as the Game of the Year for 2025. This title, which has been a major presence on the platform since its release last year, managed to surpass other notable
contenders such as Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Blue Prince. While Expedition 33 had previously won the Game Awards' Game of the Year, it was stripped of its Indie Game Awards title due to concerns over AI usage. Despite this, Expedition 33 secured the Best Soundtrack Award at the Steam Awards. In total, the Steam Awards featured 11 game categories, with Silksong being the only game to win more than one award. Other popular games recognized include Dispatch, Hades 2, Silent Hill f, Peak, and ARC Raiders. Baldur's Gate 3 also received an award for its post-game updates and bug fixes.
Why It's Important?
The Steam Awards are a significant indicator of consumer preferences and trends within the gaming industry. Hollow Knight: Silksong's win highlights the continued popularity and influence of indie games in a market often dominated by major studio releases. The recognition of games like Expedition 33 for its soundtrack and Baldur's Gate 3 for its updates underscores the importance of various aspects of game development beyond just gameplay, such as audio design and post-launch support. These awards can impact sales and visibility for the winning titles, influencing future game development and marketing strategies. The controversy surrounding Expedition 33's AI usage also reflects ongoing debates about the role of artificial intelligence in game development.
What's Next?
Following the Steam Awards, game developers and publishers may adjust their strategies to align with the trends and preferences highlighted by the awards. The success of indie games like Hollow Knight: Silksong could encourage more investment in independent game development. Additionally, the AI concerns raised by Expedition 33's disqualification from the Indie Game Awards may lead to increased scrutiny and regulation of AI use in gaming. Developers might also focus more on enhancing game soundtracks and post-launch content, as these elements have proven to be significant factors in award recognition.
