The Game Awards 2021 Winners Revealed!

Hey guys, let's dive into the biggest night in gaming, The Game Awards 2021! This is where we celebrate all the amazing achievements in the gaming world, from groundbreaking stories to mind-blowing gameplay. It's like the Oscars, but with more dragons and less tuxedos (probably). If you're wondering who won The Game Awards 2021, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down the major categories and crown the champions of 2021. Get ready, because this was a night full of surprises, epic wins, and some serious hype!

Game of the Year: The Ultimate Crown

Alright, let's kick things off with the most coveted award of the night: Game of the Year. This is the big one, folks. It's the award that every developer dreams of winning, and it recognizes the game that truly defined the year. The competition was fierce this year, with some absolutely incredible titles vying for the top spot. From sprawling open worlds to intense action-adventure epics, the nominees really showcased the incredible diversity and innovation in gaming. The pressure must have been immense for the judges, trying to pick just one masterpiece from such a stellar lineup. The anticipation in the room, and I bet in your living rooms too, was absolutely palpable. Who would emerge victorious? Which game would etch its name in gaming history? It's the question on everyone's mind when The Game Awards 2021 rolls around. The nominees were: Deathloop, It Takes Two, Metroid Dread, Psychonauts 2, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and Resident Evil Village. Each of these games brought something truly special to the table, offering unique experiences that captivated players worldwide. The discussion around which game deserved to win was probably as intense online as it was in the judging room. Think about the sheer amount of work, passion, and creativity that goes into making one of these games. It's a testament to the talent in the industry, and honestly, any of the nominees could have arguably taken home the prize. But, as always, there can only be one true winner for Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021. The suspense was killing me! This category truly represents the pinnacle of interactive entertainment, showcasing the best storytelling, most engaging gameplay, and most innovative design. It's a holistic award that considers the entire package, and the winner really has to earn it. The buzz leading up to the announcement was incredible, with fans passionately debating their favorites and predicting the outcome. The Game Awards 2021 really highlighted the incredible talent and artistry within the gaming community, and the Game of the Year award is the ultimate recognition of that brilliance.

And the Winner Is... It Takes Two!

Seriously, guys, can we talk about It Takes Two? This game absolutely blew us away and rightly deserved the Game of the Year award at The Game Awards 2021. Developed by Hazelight Studios and published by Electronic Arts, It Takes Two is a co-op action-adventure platformer that's unlike anything we've seen before. The premise is simple yet brilliant: a couple on the brink of divorce, Cody and May, are magically turned into dolls. They must work together, navigating a fantastical world filled with bizarre challenges and emotional moments, to get back to their human selves. What makes It Takes Two so special? Its incredible co-op gameplay. This isn't just a game with co-op; it's a game built around co-op. Every level introduces new mechanics that force players to communicate, coordinate, and rely on each other. One moment you're a fiery character, the next you're controlling a lighter one, each with unique abilities that complement the other. It’s a masterclass in cooperative design, ensuring that neither player feels left out and that the teamwork is always engaging and fun. The sheer variety of gameplay is astounding. One minute you're in a frantic boss battle, the next you're solving puzzles in a whimsical garden, and then you're navigating a mind-bending space level. The developers managed to keep the experience fresh and exciting throughout its entire runtime, never letting players get bored. The story, while seemingly lighthearted, is surprisingly heartfelt and deals with themes of relationships, communication, and reconciliation. It's a game that manages to be both hilarious and deeply moving. The visual style is vibrant and imaginative, with each environment feeling distinct and bursting with personality. The characters are relatable, and their journey of rediscovering their love for each other is genuinely compelling. It Takes Two isn't just a game; it's an experience that fosters connection and collaboration. Winning Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021 is a massive achievement, and it's a testament to Hazelight Studios' creative vision and dedication to crafting a truly unique and unforgettable gaming experience. It's a must-play for anyone who enjoys cooperative gaming and appreciates innovative game design. This win cements It Takes Two as a landmark title in the history of video games, proving that innovative co-op mechanics and a strong emotional narrative can lead to ultimate success. It really showed the world what's possible when developers focus on unique gameplay loops and meaningful player interaction.

Best Direction: Crafting the Vision

Moving on, let's talk about Best Direction. This award celebrates the visionary leadership behind a game, recognizing the director(s) who guided the project to its artistic and technical triumph. It's about the cohesive vision, the innovative gameplay, the stunning presentation, and the overall experience that the directors managed to orchestrate. This category is super important because it highlights the creative minds that shape our favorite games. The nominees for Best Direction at The Game Awards 2021 were Deathloop (Arkane Lyon/Bethesda Softworks), It Takes Two (Hazelight Studios/Electronic Arts), Psychonauts 2 (Double Fine Productions/Xbox Game Studios), Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (Insomniac Games/Sony Interactive Entertainment), and Returnal (Housemarque/Sony Interactive Entertainment). Each of these studios and their directors poured their hearts and souls into creating these incredible worlds. Developing a game is a massive undertaking, and the director's role is crucial in ensuring that all the disparate elements – art, music, gameplay, narrative – come together harmoniously. It requires a deep understanding of the medium, strong leadership skills, and the ability to inspire a large team to achieve a shared goal. The impact of a great director can be seen and felt in every aspect of a game, from the smallest environmental detail to the overarching narrative themes. They are the ones who ensure that the game's unique identity shines through and resonates with players. The nominees this year were all incredibly strong contenders, showcasing diverse approaches to game design and storytelling. We saw innovative mechanics, breathtaking visuals, and compelling narratives from all of them. Choosing a winner here is always a tough call, as it acknowledges the intricate blend of art and technology that defines modern gaming. The Game Awards 2021 truly showcased the artistic merit of video games, and the Best Direction award is a prime example of that.

The Director's Cut: It Takes Two Again!

Unsurprisingly, It Takes Two also snagged the award for Best Direction at The Game Awards 2021! This is a massive win for Hazelight Studios and director Josef Fares. It really underscores the brilliant and cohesive vision they brought to the game. From the moment you start playing, it's clear that immense thought and creativity went into every single aspect. The way the gameplay mechanics constantly evolve and surprise you, the seamless integration of narrative elements, and the absolutely stunning visual design – it all speaks to a director's clear and focused vision. Josef Fares, known for his passionate and often quirky presentations, has once again proven his Midas touch in the gaming industry. It Takes Two isn't just a collection of fun levels; it's a masterfully crafted experience where every element serves the central theme of cooperation and relationship building. The direction is evident in how the game consistently reinvents itself, introducing new gameplay styles and challenges that keep players on their toes without ever feeling disjointed. The art direction is consistently imaginative, bringing to life a world that is both whimsical and emotionally resonant. The narrative, too, is expertly woven into the gameplay, ensuring that the players feel invested in Cody and May's journey. This award is a huge recognition of Fares's ability to blend innovative gameplay with a compelling story and a unique artistic style. It’s a testament to his leadership and the talented team at Hazelight Studios who executed his vision flawlessly. For The Game Awards 2021 to recognize It Takes Two for its direction highlights how important creative vision and execution are in delivering truly memorable gaming experiences. It’s not just about making a game fun; it’s about crafting a world, a story, and an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. This win solidifies It Takes Two's status as a landmark title, celebrated not just for its gameplay, but for the sheer artistry and directorial brilliance behind it. It's a powerful example of how strong direction can elevate a game from good to truly exceptional, making it a standout in the competitive landscape of The Game Awards 2021.

Best Narrative: Telling the Story

Next up, we have the Best Narrative award. This one is all about the storytelling prowess of a game. It recognizes the games that managed to weave compelling plots, create memorable characters, and deliver emotional experiences that stay with us long after we've put down the controller. A great story can elevate a game from a simple pastime to an unforgettable journey. The nominees for Best Narrative at The Game Awards 2021 were Cyberpunk 2077 (CD Projekt Red), Deathloop (Arkane Lyon/Bethesda Softworks), It Takes Two (Hazelight Studios/Electronic Arts), Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy (Eidos-Montréal/Square Enix), and Resident Evil Village (Capcom). These games offered vastly different narrative experiences, from the deep, branching choices of Cyberpunk 2077 to the intimate relationship drama of It Takes Two, and the epic space opera of Guardians of the Galaxy. The strength of narrative in games has grown exponentially, and this category truly showcases that evolution. It’s fascinating to see how developers are pushing the boundaries of storytelling within the interactive medium. Whether it's through complex character arcs, intricate world-building, or emotionally resonant dialogue, the nominees here delivered unforgettable tales. The Game Awards 2021 really put a spotlight on the power of a well-told story in video games. Thinking about these nominees, each one had a unique approach to engaging players emotionally and intellectually. Some offered grand, epic sagas, while others focused on personal, character-driven journeys. The impact of these narratives is undeniable, as they often form the core of what makes a game memorable and impactful. The criteria for Best Narrative usually involves looking at plot originality, character development, thematic depth, and the overall emotional impact. It's about how well the story is integrated with the gameplay and how effectively it pulls the player into its world. This award celebrates the writers, the narrative designers, and everyone involved in crafting these incredible virtual experiences. The Game Awards 2021 had some heavy hitters in this category, making the decision incredibly difficult for the judges.

A Tale of Two: Life is Strange: True Colors**

Okay, so here's a bit of a twist! While It Takes Two dominated many categories, the award for Best Narrative at The Game Awards 2021 actually went to Life is Strange: True Colors! Developed by Deck Nine and published by Square Enix, this game absolutely captured hearts with its poignant story and deeply empathetic characters. This win is a huge deal for narrative-driven games, proving that powerful storytelling is highly valued. Life is Strange: True Colors puts you in the shoes of Alex Chen, a young woman who reunites with her estranged brother in Haven Springs, Colorado. Alex has the supernatural ability to experience others' emotions as vivid colors, and when her brother dies in a so-called accident, she sets out to uncover the truth. What makes this game shine is its incredible emotional depth. The game tackles themes of grief, loss, found family, and navigating complex relationships with a remarkable level of sensitivity and nuance. Alex's empathic powers aren't just a gimmick; they're central to the gameplay, allowing players to understand and connect with the characters on a profound level. You genuinely feel Alex's pain, joy, and anxieties. The writing is superb, creating believable characters with distinct personalities and relatable struggles. Even the supporting characters feel fully realized, each with their own hopes, dreams, and secrets. The town of Haven Springs itself becomes a character, a beautifully rendered setting that is both charming and melancholic. The choices you make as Alex have real consequences, shaping the relationships and the outcome of the story. This focus on player agency within a deeply personal narrative is what makes the Life is Strange series so beloved. Winning Best Narrative at The Game Awards 2021 is a fantastic recognition of the game's powerful writing, emotional impact, and character development. It highlights the importance of meaningful stories in the gaming landscape and celebrates a game that truly connected with players on an emotional level. It's a beautiful example of how games can be used to explore complex human experiences and evoke genuine empathy. This win deservedly puts Life is Strange: True Colors on the map as a masterclass in modern video game storytelling, showcasing the genre's potential for profound emotional resonance.

Best Ongoing Game: The Marathon Runners

Now, let's shine a light on Best Ongoing Game. This award is for those titles that continue to evolve, engage, and provide fresh content for their communities year after year. These are the games that keep players coming back for more, thanks to regular updates, events, and expansions. The competition in this category is always tough because these games are essentially living, breathing entities. The nominees for Best Ongoing Game at The Game Awards 2021 were Apex Legends (Respawn Entertainment/Electronic Arts), Call of Duty: Warzone (Infinity Ward/Activision), Genshin Impact (miHoYo), Fortnite (Epic Games), and Roblox (Roblox Corporation). These are all massive titles with dedicated player bases, constantly being updated with new seasons, characters, maps, and events. It's a testament to the developers' commitment and the players' passion that these games remain so relevant and popular. Think about the sheer effort involved in keeping a live-service game fresh and exciting. It requires a constant stream of new content, community management, and balancing updates to keep the player base engaged. The Game Awards 2021 recognized the sustained effort and success of these gaming giants. These games aren't just released and forgotten; they are platforms that continue to grow and evolve, often becoming central to their players' social lives. The developers behind these games are essentially running a marathon, not a sprint, and this award celebrates their endurance and ongoing success. The impact of these ongoing games on the industry is huge, setting trends and defining how many players interact with their favorite titles. The competition is fierce, and the winner truly represents the best of the best in the world of persistent online gaming.

The Long Haul Champ: Genshin Impact

And the award for Best Ongoing Game at The Game Awards 2021 goes to Genshin Impact! This is a massive win for miHoYo's open-world action RPG. Genshin Impact has consistently delivered a high-quality, constantly evolving experience that keeps millions of players hooked. Since its launch, the game has received a steady stream of substantial updates, introducing new regions to explore, compelling characters to collect and play, engaging story quests, and challenging new bosses. The developers have shown incredible dedication to expanding the vast world of Teyvat, making it feel truly alive and dynamic. What makes Genshin Impact stand out is its sheer quality and ambition. The game boasts stunning anime-inspired visuals, a beautiful soundtrack, and fluid, engaging combat. It successfully blends elements of action RPGs, gacha mechanics, and open-world exploration into a package that is both accessible and deep. The consistent delivery of new content, from major story expansions to limited-time events, has been key to its enduring popularity. It’s a game that respects players’ time by offering meaningful progression and exciting challenges without demanding constant engagement. The community around Genshin Impact is also incredibly vibrant, with players sharing strategies, fan art, and theories. The ongoing support and development from miHoYo have been exemplary, making it a truly deserving winner for Best Ongoing Game at The Game Awards 2021. This award recognizes not just the initial success but the sustained commitment to excellence and player satisfaction, solidifying Genshin Impact's place as a dominant force in the live-service gaming market. It's a testament to their vision of creating a continuously expanding universe that players can get lost in for years to come.

Other Notable Wins at The Game Awards 2021

While we've focused on the big hitters, The Game Awards 2021 had plenty of other exciting categories and deserving winners. It's always great to see a diverse range of games and developers get recognized. Let's quickly run through a few more:

• Best Independent Game: This went to Kena: Bridge of Spirits. A truly beautiful and charming game that showcased incredible artistry and heart from a smaller studio. A well-deserved win!
• Best Debut Indie Game: Awarded to Unpacking. This game, with its incredibly unique concept of unpacking boxes to tell a story, resonated with so many people. So clever!
• Best Multiplayer Game: It Takes Two took this home too! Not surprising, given its co-op focus. It really proved that multiplayer doesn't always have to be about competition.
• Best Family Game: Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. A fantastic, visually stunning game that's perfect for players of all ages. A classic PlayStation experience!
• Best Audio Design: Forza Horizon 5. The sound in this racing game is absolutely phenomenal. You can practically feel the engines roaring!
• Best Score and Music: NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139.... The music in Nier games is always legendary, and this one was no exception. Absolutely breathtaking.
• Best Performance: Arnaud Tritto as Colt Vahn in Deathloop. A standout performance in a game full of great characters.
• Most Innovative Gameplay: Deathloop. This game really pushed the boundaries with its unique time-looping assassination mechanics. Super creative!
• Best Game Direction: This was also won by It Takes Two. Yes, it won again! It really speaks volumes about the game's overall quality and execution.
• Games for Impact: Awarded to Chicory: A Colorful Tale. A game that uses its mechanics and story to explore themes of self-doubt and creativity in a meaningful way.

The Game Awards 2021 was a fantastic celebration of everything gaming has to offer. From massive AAA blockbusters to charming indie gems, there was something for everyone. The big winner of the night was undoubtedly It Takes Two, scooping up Game of the Year and several other major awards, but it was wonderful to see so many different titles get the recognition they deserved. What were your favorite games of 2021, guys? Did you agree with The Game Awards 2021 winners? Let us know in the comments below!