A State of Play dedicated to Ghost of Yotei took place, and at the event, Sucker Punch Productions shared expectations for the game.
On the narrative side, it’s set 300 years after the events of Ghost of Tsushima. Ghost of Yotei centers on Atsu, a woman thirsty for revenge against a gang of assassins known as the “Yotei Six,” who killed her family in front of her. She takes on the pseudonym of Onryo (ghost) to begin her revenge in the mountains of Yotei, Japan.
Game mechanics include:
A task draw system among investigation cards, which will help you have alternate tasks and find both primary and elective objectives.
Rewards within Yotei through hunting wanted people.
Skills earned at relaxation/meditation sites.
An arsenal based on authentic Japanese weapons (Katana, Kodachi, Kunai, double-blade, bombs, and more).
Synergy with a mysterious wolf helps even in battles with multiple enemies.
A detail that adds realism to the game: depending on your performance in battle, you can even be disarmed if it’s poor, and stealth will be important, and its effectiveness will depend on the weapon in use.
Your arsenal is how you define your fighting style, and of course, the game will include cosmetics for visual preferences.
Additionally, the game will feature a resource and Atsu status upgrade system simulated as camp rest scenarios, which helps increase the chances of progression and also fosters allies.
Key Gameplay Mechanics
Feature
Details
Source
Investigation Cards
A card-based system tracks leads and unlocks bounties across Mount Yotei
2
Guiding Wind
Waypoint-free breeze mechanic returns to subtly direct you
2
Camp System
Establish camps to cook, play music, and recruit NPCs
2
Combat Arsenal
Dual katanas, ōdachi blade, kusarigama sickle, plus a wolf companion
2
Disarm Mechanic
Perform quick parries to strip enemies of their weapons
Built from the ground up for PS5, Ghost of Yotei showcases:
Ray-traced lighting, HDR bloom, and snow effects
Instantaneous load times via the PS5 SSD
Rich environmental storytelling in Hokkaido’s historic Ezo region, complete with dynamic weather and wildlife behaviors
The main soundtrack was directed by Toma Owora, relying heavily on traditional Japanese instruments along with lo-fi tracks composed by the director of the anime Samurai Champloo. The game also includes the ability to play the game with Japanese dialogue. There will also be a Photo Mode.
Ghost of Yotei will also feature a Kurosawa mode, which will apply a black and white image filter as a tribute to classic Japanese films.
The game will be released on October 2nd, and in addition to the standard, Premium, and Collector’s Editions (which will be sold exclusively through PlayStation Direct), there will be a limited-edition PlayStation 5 console inspired by the game. It will feature two color finishes and will include a digital version of the game with DLC additions, also available for those who pre-order the base game.
One will feature a gold finish in the kintsugi art style, which is based on repairing ceramic materials with gold coatings. The other will feature a black finish, based on the Sumi-e art style, which specializes in the use of black ink with a brush. This edition, like the Collector’s Edition, will be sold exclusively through PlayStation Direct, while the gold version will be available globally.
After dominating PlayStation 5 and PC with its frenetic co-op warfare, Helldivers 2 is finally storming Xbox Series X|S on August 26, 2025. Pre-orders are live at $39.99, matching its price on other platforms. Expect:
Full cross-play with PS5 and PC friends
All core stratagems, missions and Warbond Battle Pass content intact
Optimized 4K visuals and up to 60 FPS on Xbox Series X|S
A new dawn is upon us. Super Earth is expanding its operations and opening new enlistment centres.
Xbox players, your opportunity to enlist is coming when HELLDIVERS 2 deploys to Xbox Series X|S on August 26. Pre-order Standard Edition and the Super Citizen Edition of Helldivers… pic.twitter.com/gLoQrSK8ut
This marks PlayStation Studios’ first self-published arrival on Xbox, underscoring a growing trend of console-brand détente and in an interesting note, also on August 26, 2025, Microsoft unleashes Gears of War: Reloaded—the definitive remaster of the 2006 blockbuster—onto Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC and Steam. Key highlights include:
True 4K campaign at 60 FPS; multiplayer up to 120 FPS
All Ultimate Edition DLC (bonus act, maps, characters) at no extra cost
Cross-play and cross-progression across every platform (sign-in with a Microsoft Account required)
Day-one availability on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass
Free upgrade for existing digital owners of the Ultimate Edition
This release shatters two decades of exclusivity, inviting both Xbox and PlayStation communities to relive Marcus and Dom’s origin story.
Head-to-Head Release Snapshot
Feature
Helldivers 2
Gears of War: Reloaded
Release Date
August 26, 2025
August 26, 2025
Platforms
Xbox Series X & S
S, PS5, PC
Price
$39.99
$39.99
Cross-Play
Yes (PS5, PC & Xbox)
Yes (all platforms)
Cross-Progression
Not supported at launch
Yes (with MS Account)
Game Pass Day-One
No
Yes
Upgrade Path
N/A
Free for Ultimate Edition digital owners
August 26 becomes a landmark date: PlayStation’s breakout live-service hit joins Xbox’s storied cover-to-cover remaster in one epic dispatch. Gamers gain unprecedented flexibility—whether you’re rallying Super Earth’s bravest or chainsawing Locusts, the war for inter-platform unity is officially won.
The gaming industry is no stranger to upheaval, and Sony Bend Studio—the team behind Days Gone—is the latest to face significant changes. Following the cancellation of an unannounced live-service game, the studio has confirmed layoffs affecting approximately 30% of its workforce, equating to around 40 employees.
The Fallout from the Cancellation
Earlier this year, Sony made the decision to scrap multiple live-service projects, including one from Bend Studio. While details about the canceled game remain scarce, reports suggest it was a multiplayer-focused shooter. The studio had been working on this project for some time, but after careful evaluation, Sony opted not to move forward with it.
It’s a sad day in Bend. I love this studio, it means so much to me. Hard to put into words when something like this hits your team.
And yes, I am safe. Thank you to those who reached out. ❤️
The layoffs were officially confirmed by Bend Studio, which acknowledged the departure of talented team members and expressed gratitude for their contributions. Senior animator Robert Morrison, who previously worked on God of War and The Last of Us, was among those affected, sharing his disappointment on social media. Despite the setback, Bend Studio remains committed to its future, stating that it is already shifting focus to a new project.
What’s Next for Bend Studio?
While the studio has yet to reveal details about its next endeavor, insiders suggest it will build upon the open-world systems established in Days Gone. The team previously hinted at a new IP featuring multiplayer elements, though whether this remains in development is unclear.
Sony’s broader strategy regarding live-service games has been turbulent, with multiple cancellations and restructuring efforts across its studios. As Bend Studio navigates this transition, fans and industry watchers alike will be eager to see what comes next.
On June 4, 2025, PlayStation lit up the digital stage with a State of Play presentation that wasn’t just about slips of teasers or half-hinted secrets—it was a masterclass in balancing nostalgia with innovation. Over a brisk 40 minutes, Sony and its creative partners unveiled a slate of titles designed to pull fans deeper into both familiar worlds and uncharted realms of play. Today, we’re diving into every facet of the event, exploring both the official reveals and the industry-buzzed hints that promise to define the next gaming era.
The First-Party Feast: Revitalizing Beloved Franchises and Original Concepts
Sony’s official blog post served as the backbone of the evening’s announcements, delivering a clear vision of its upcoming lineup. In an era where every update matters, each reveal resonated as a promise—a blend of refined gameplay mechanics and fresh creative spirit.
Astro Bot: A Journey Through the Vicious Void
Led by Asobi, Astro Bot returns with a burst of creative energy. The game’s expansion comes in the form of five new levels set within the foreboding Vicious Void Galaxy. These stages are not merely testaments to the studio’s longstanding polish in platforming but are also intricately designed to push players’ reflexes alongside their puzzle-solving skills. Adding another layer to the experience is an updated, smile-enhanced version of the Astro Bot Limited Edition DualSense wireless controller—reminding us that gaming peripherals are evolving as enthusiastically as games themselves. This reveal underscores PlayStation’s attention to sensory connection and physicality in gameplay.
Baby Steps: Embracing the Charm of Quirk and Challenge
Few games can capture the bittersweet humor of navigating life’s “baby steps” quite like this quirky walking simulator. With a confirmed release date of September 8, 2025, the new trailer for Baby Steps delicately balances humor with innovative traversal mechanics. In its world, every misstep is a lesson, and its onesie-clad protagonist—named Nate in discussions among fans—faces odd challenges that combine literal and metaphorical obstacles. By elevating what could have been a simple journey into an art form of whimsical exploration, Baby Steps reminds us that sometimes, the joy is in the minutiae of everyday movement.
Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement—Dark, Dual, and Determined
For those who favor a bite of darkness with their action, the revived Bloodstained series did not disappoint. Titled The Scarlet Engagement, this side-scrolling 2.5D action RPG reinvents its narrative by introducing dual protagonists, Leo and Alex, whose distinct abilities encourage players to switch seamlessly between play styles. Set in a sprawling, haunted castle, the game promises meticulously choreographed combat encounters and puzzles that require both strategic depth and quick reflexes. This reveal is a bold reminder that legacy titles can be reimagined to push forward narrative and gameplay boundaries while staying true to what made them iconic.
Cairn: Climb, Conserve, and Conquer
Not every challenge in gaming has to come through conventional battle; sometimes it’s about survival. Cairn is a fresh take on the survival-climber genre, landing on PS5 with the promise of a truly interactive experience. With a release slated for November 5, 2025, Cairn challenges players to manage resources, plan every step of their ascent, and explore the treacherous mountain paths—all while contending with environmental hazards that feel both expansive and personal. A demo available on the PlayStation Store provides fans with a taste of its innovative mechanics, inviting players to test their endurance before the full plunge into this vertical adventure.
Digimon Story: Time Stranger—A World of Digital Bonds
Returning to a franchise that has long stirred the hearts of its devotees, Digimon Story: Time Stranger steps into the limelight with a refreshed narrative and enhanced character customization. Set to launch on October 3, 2025, the new trailer paints a vivid picture: vibrant digital worlds where every Digimon can grow in unique directions. As teamwork and strategy become pivotal in bonding with and evolving these virtual partners, the game promises to build upon past successes while ushering in a new era for the franchise on PS5.
Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots: A Swing into the Past and Future
In an unexpected twist that marries classic arcade charm with modern gaming innovation, Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots makes its triumphant return. With its release scheduled in September, the announcement was punctuated by a cameo from none other than Pac-Man—a whimsical nod to gaming’s enduring legacy. This blend of light-hearted sports action and a retro cameo not only offers a nostalgic experience but also rekindles the spirit of intergenerational crossover, creating a bridge between the golden age of gaming and today’s powerhouse experiences.
The Buzz Beyond the Blog: Rumors, Teases, and Industry Hints
While Sony’s controlled, first-party lineup painted a vibrant picture of the near future, the periphery of the event was rife with tantalizing teases and industry rumors that hint at even broader horizons.
Ghost of Yotei: A Mysterious Glimpse into the Unknown
Among the whispers that had fans buzzing even before the event began was the teaser for Ghost of Yotei. Though the reveal was more of a teaser than a full announcement, it set the stage for what might come—a gameplay deep dive scheduled for July that promises to explore layered narrative depths and innovative combat mechanics. The title appears poised to weave mystery and myth into a spellbinding experience, leaving fans hungry for immersive storytelling and dynamic tactical play.
Final Fantasy Tactics Remaster: Honoring a Strategic Legacy
No discussion of anticipated announcements would be complete without the industry’s long-standing plea for a Final Fantasy Tactics remaster. Hints—including a now-deleted tweet from the original director, Yasumi Matsuno—have stoked excitement that this beloved title might finally return, reimagined for the PS5 era with both its original charm and modern enhancements. While details remain under wraps, the promise of dual versions—both as a homage to the original and as an enhanced experience—could be the reassuring bridge for longtime fans and curious newcomers alike.
Shaping the Future: What These Announcements Mean for Gaming
At its core, the State of Play event on June 4 served as both a celebration of PlayStation’s storied past and a clarion call for its future. It reminded us that a console family is built not only on cutting-edge technology and exclusive titles but on stories that evolve with us. Here are some reflections on the event’s broader impact:
A Spectrum of Experiences: From the playful yet challenging levels of Astro Bot to the somber, intricate battles in Bloodstained, the lineup embraces both lighthearted moments and profound narrative journeys. This spectrum ensures there’s something for every kind of gamer—whether you’re here for the adrenaline rush of action or the quiet, introspective puzzles of a walking simulator.
Evolving Gameplay and Audience Engagement: With releases like Cairn, which emphasizes resource management and environmental challenges, and Baby Steps, which converts everyday hurdles into a narrative adventure, Sony is not merely rehashing old formulas. Instead, it’s evolving them. By partnering nostalgia with modern design philosophies, these games promise to engage players on multiple levels—emotionally, physically, and intellectually.
Bridging Generations: The surprise cameo in Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots, along with the potential return of classic titles like Final Fantasy Tactics and Final Fantasy VII Remake, exemplifies a daring vision: to merge the cherished memories of past gaming eras with the technological and creative possibilities of the future. It’s a call to both longtime devotees and new fans to experience a world where every play session feels like a dialogue with history—and a step toward tomorrow.
Industry-Wide Ripple Effects: Rumors surrounding titles like Death Stranding 2 and Wolverine are not just idle chatter; they hint at ambitions that could redefine cinematic storytelling in the medium. If these projects come to fruition, they will not only enrich the PlayStation ecosystem but also set new benchmarks for how interactive narratives are crafted and delivered.
Through its carefully curated announcements and well-timed teases, PlayStation has once again demonstrated that the magic of gaming lies in its ability to surprise, engage, and transform. The event has set high expectations, and as gamers and enthusiasts, we’re now left with a tantalizing glimpse of what the next few years hold.
As we await further deep dives—like the promised July gameplay reveal for Ghost of Yotei—and keep our eyes peeled for any hints regarding the cinematic scope of Death Stranding 2 or the raw intensity of a Wolverine title, one thing is clear: the new era of PlayStation gaming is not only bright but also profoundly exciting. For those who live and breathe this digital universe, these announcements are an invitation to explore, to imagine, and to engage with a medium that continues to captivate our collective imaginations.
March 22, 2025, marks a monumental milestone in gaming history—the 20th anniversary of the iconic God of Warfranchise. From its humble beginnings on the PlayStation 2 to its evolution into a critically acclaimed saga, God of War has not only redefined action-adventure games but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of gamers worldwide. Let’s take a journey through the legacy of Kratos, the Ghost of Sparta, and explore how this franchise has grown over the past two decades.
The Birth of a Legend (2005)
The original God of War debuted in 2005, introducing players to Kratos, a Spartan warrior consumed by vengeance against the gods of Olympus. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, the game was a groundbreaking blend of brutal combat, intricate puzzles, and epic storytelling. Its cinematic presentation and visceral gameplay set a new standard for the genre, earning it numerous Game of the Year awards.
The Greek Saga: A Tale of Revenge
The early years of the franchise were defined by Kratos’ relentless quest for revenge against the Greek pantheon. Titles like God of War II (2007) and God of War III (2010) expanded the narrative, showcasing larger-than-life battles against iconic figures like Zeus and Poseidon. These games were celebrated for their jaw-dropping set pieces, such as the battle against the Colossus of Rhodes and the ascent of Mount Olympus.
A Bold Reimagining: The Norse Saga
In 2018, Santa Monica Studio took a bold step by rebooting the series with God of War (2018). Set in the realm of Norse mythology, the game introduced a more mature and introspective Kratos, now a father to Atreus. This reinvention was a masterclass in storytelling, exploring themes of redemption, parenthood, and the cyclical nature of violence. The sequel, God of War Ragnarök (2022), continued this narrative, cementing the series’ place as a modern masterpiece.
20th Anniversary Celebrations
To commemorate this milestone, Sony and Santa Monica Studio have rolled out a series of celebratory initiatives:
Dark Odyssey Collection: A free update for God of War Ragnarök featuring black-and-gold-themed armor and weapon appearances inspired by the original God of War II.
Art Exhibition: A showcase of concept art and iconic moments from the franchise, held in Los Angeles.
Merchandise: Limited-edition items, including a retrospective book, art prints, and a vinyl soundtrack collection.
Digital Goodies: Free anniversary-themed avatars, wallpapers, and social media assets for fans.
The Legacy of Kratos
Over the past 20 years, God of War has evolved from a tale of vengeance to a deeply human story about growth and change. Kratos’ journey—from a rage-fueled antihero to a complex, empathetic character—mirrors the franchise’s own transformation. It’s a testament to the creative vision of Santa Monica Studio and the enduring support of its passionate fanbase.
As we celebrate this milestone, one thing is clear: God of War is more than just a game. It’s a cultural phenomenon that has inspired countless players and creators alike. Here’s to 20 years of myth, legend, and unforgettable adventures—and to many more to come.
In the world of gaming, few franchises have managed to carve out a niche as unique and enduring as Twisted Metal. Known for its chaotic vehicular combat and memorable characters, the series has been a staple of PlayStation’s lineup since its debut in 1995.
However, fans of the franchise were recently hit with a wave of nostalgia and disappointment as details emerged about a cancelled Twisted Metal game that was in development for the PlayStation 5.
The cancelled Twisted Metal game, internally known as “Project Copper,” was being developed by Firesprite, the studio behind Horizon: Call of the Mountain. While PlayStation never officially confirmed the existence of this project, reports of Firesprite’s involvement began circulating online in 2022.
The game was reportedly cancelled last year, but new details have surfaced thanks to Hugo Silva, a lead UI programmer who was working on the project.
According to Silva, Project Copper was envisioned as a “3rd person vehicular action combat game” based on a classic IP owned by PlayStation. The game was set to introduce a significant shift in gameplay mechanics, incorporating third-person shooter elements alongside the traditional vehicular combat. The objective was to be the last one standing, effectively turning Twisted Metal into a battle royale game.
The Battle Royale Concept
The battle royale genre has seen immense popularity in recent years, with games like Fortnite and Apex Legends dominating the market. Firesprite and PlayStation aimed to capitalize on this trend by reimagining Twisted Metal as a battle royale game. Early images from Silva’s website, though labeled “under NDA,” highlight the battle royale concept, featuring generic characters engaged in third-person shooter combat. These placeholder designs would have likely been replaced by classic characters from the series or custom-designed protagonists.
The last new Twisted Metal game was released on the PlayStation 3 back in 2012, making it over a decade since fans have had a new entry in the series. The cancellation of Project Copper is undoubtedly frustrating for fans, especially considering the success of the Twisted Metal streaming series on Peacock. The absence of a new game to accompany the show’s popularity seems like a missed opportunity for PlayStation.
However, it’s possible that the decision to cancel the game was for the best. From the details revealed so far, Project Copper might not have delivered what fans have come to expect from the series. If the game had been released and failed, it could have potentially doomed the franchise for another decade or more.
The Future of Twisted Metal
Despite the cancellation of Project Copper, there is still hope for the future of Twisted Metal. PlayStation co-CEO Herman Hurst hinted back in December that the company is looking for ways to leverage its past IPs, offering a glimmer of hope that dormant franchises like Twisted Metal could make a return. Fans will have to wait and see if a new game finally materializes, but for now, the cancellation of Project Copper remains a tantalizing “what if” in the history of Twisted Metal.
In conclusion, the revelation of the cancelled Twisted Metal game has left fans with mixed emotions. While the concept of a battle royale Twisted Metal game is intriguing, it’s uncertain whether it would have lived up to the legacy of the franchise. As we look to the future, we can only hope that PlayStation finds a way to bring Twisted Metal back to its former glory.
In a recent interview on the Sacred Symbols PlayStation Podcast, former PlayStation boss Shuhei Yoshida shed light on the closure of Sony Japan Studios, a decision that left many fans and industry insiders puzzled. Yoshida attributed the closure to the disappearance of the “double-A” game market, which he believes played a significant role in the studio’s downfall.
During his tenure at PlayStation, Yoshida acknowledged that Japan Studio produced many great games, but they rarely achieved the same level of commercial success as their AAA counterparts.
Other than Gran Turismo, we didn’t really have many triple-A-level successful products.
As the gaming industry shifted its focus towards larger, blockbuster titles, the double-A market struggled to compete.
Yoshida cited Gravity Rush 2 as an example, noting that director Keiichiro Toyama pitched several ideas for a follow-up, but none of them could be greenlit due to market conditions.
The market became really difficult for these kinds of games.
This shift in the market dynamics ultimately led to the closure of Japan Studio in April 2021.
Despite the closure, the legacy of Japan Studio lives on through Team Asobi, a spin-off studio that developed the acclaimed Astro Bot series. The studio’s recent release, Astro Bot, even won The Game Awards’ 2024 Game of the Year, showcasing the continued creativity and talent of the former Japan Studio team.
Yoshida’s comments have sparked a conversation about the challenges faced by mid-sized game studios in today’s market. While the closure of Japan Studio was a significant loss, it also highlights the evolving nature of the gaming industry and the need for studios to adapt to changing market conditions.
In a recent interview with Kinda Funny Games, Ted Price, the co-founder and soon-to-be-retired president of Insomniac Games, revealed that the studio had indeed pitched a sequel to the “Resistance” series, with Resistance 4, to Sony. However, the pitch was ultimately turned down.
Price shared that the concept for “Resistance 4” was a wonderful one, and the team at Insomniac Games was passionate about extending the story further. They had put extensive work into the game’s potential backstory and the overall direction of the franchise. The alternate history base of the “Resistance” series, with its intriguing Chimera and their origins, provided a rich foundation for future storytelling.
Despite the enthusiasm from the Insomniac team, Sony decided not to greenlight the project due to timing and market opportunity concerns. Price mentioned that the timing wasn’t right and that the market conditions didn’t favor the release of another “Resistance” game at that point. Additionally, there were concerns about the game’s concept being too similar to “The Last of Us,” and Sony didn’t want the two games overlapping.
Price also clarified that “Resistance 3” was intended to end that chapter of the franchise. The game’s ending, with the character Joseph Capelli and the closure of various storylines, was designed to provide more options for the future, whether it be more “Resistance” games or a different direction for the series.
While the news of the rejection was disappointing for fans of the series, Price remains hopeful that the “Resistance” franchise might make a return in the future. He expressed his love for the franchise and his desire to see the story taken further.
Fans have been eagerly awaiting a return or remaster of the “Resistance” trilogy, which has been stuck on the PlayStation 3 since its release. Although some of the games are available through PlayStation Plus streaming, there is still no native way to experience the trilogy on modern hardware.
Price’s comments have provided some insight into the decision-making process behind the rejection of “Resistance 4” and have given fans a glimmer of hope for the future of the series.
Ted Price, the founder and president of Insomniac Games, announced his retirement after over 30 years with the studio. Price, who has been instrumental in creating beloved franchises like “Spyro the Dragon,” “Ratchet & Clank,” and “Marvel’s Spider-Man,” shared his decision to step down at the end of March 2025.
In his blog post, Price expressed his gratitude for the fulfilling career he has had and his confidence in the new leadership team. He introduced Chad Dezern, Ryan Schneider, and Jen Huang as the new co-heads of Insomniac Games, who will continue to lead the studio into the future.
Price also acknowledged the challenges faced by the team due to recent events, such as the LA wildfires, and praised the Insomniac employees for their resilience and dedication. He emphasized his commitment to supporting those affected and ensuring a smooth transition for the studio.
Therefore, last week, I felt comfortable announcing to the Insomniac team that after having been incredibly fortunate to enjoy such a fulfilling career in games, I’ll be retiring from the industry at the end of March. Today, I’m sharing this news more broadly.
I actually made this decision last year. For me, after over 30 years of leading Insomniac, I felt it was simply time to step aside and let others pave the way for our team.
During the past year, I had the opportunity to work with the senior leadership team at Insomniac to create a succession plan that I know will provide the continuity, stability and strong leadership necessary to deliver more of what our fans cherish over the next several decades.
Ted Price founded Insomniac Games in 1994 as Xtreme Software, which was later renamed Insomniac Games in 1995. The studio’s first project was “Disruptor” for the original PlayStation, which didn’t perform well commercially.
In 2019, Insomniac Games was acquired by Sony Interactive Entertainment and became part of PlayStation Studios. This acquisition marked a significant milestone for the studio, solidifying its position within the PlayStation ecosystem.
Ted Price has been the president and CEO of Insomniac Games for over 30 years. Under his leadership, the studio has grown and produced numerous successful games.
The 14th Annual New York Game Awards, hosted by the New York Videogame Critics Circle, celebrated the best games of 2024 with a spectacular ceremony held in Manhattan. Among the night’s biggest winners was Team Asobi’s Astro Bot, which took home the coveted Game of the Year award, along with two additional accolades for Best Kids Game and Best Music.
Released in September 2024, Astro Bot has been a critical and commercial success. The game, which allows players to control Astro as they attempt to save lost Bots and restore the PS5 mothership, has been praised for its charm, environmental design, and innovative use of the DualSense controller. With a player rating of 100 on OpenCritic, Astro Bot has become the most awarded platformer in history, boasting 110 Game of the Year trophies to date.
During the ceremony, Astro Bot’s director, Nicolas Doucet, expressed his overwhelming shock and gratitude for the win. Doucet admitted that he didn’t expect to win the coveted award and remembered very little of his acceptance speech due to his excitement.
The game’s winning streak doesn’t seem to be over just yet, as more accolades keep pouring in.
While Astro Bot led the night with three wins, other games also received recognition. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree won Best World and Best DLC, and Studio Zero’s Metaphor: ReFantazio took home the award for Best Writing in a Game. Indie hit UFO 50 was named Best Indie Game, and Troy Baker received the award for Best Acting in a Game for his portrayal of Indiana Jones in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.
With its incredible success, fans are eagerly awaiting what Team Asobi has in store for Astro Bot. Recent rumors suggest that more DLC may be coming in 2025, including a possible Tekken crossover. Additionally, a new speedrunning level for Astro Bot was featured in the finals of a recent PlayStation Tournaments XP event, though it’s unclear when this will be added to the game.
The 14th Annual New York Game Awards Winners
Big Apple Award for Best Game of the Year Astro Bot
Off-Broadway Award for Best Indie Game UFO 50
Herman Melville Award for Best Writing in a Game Metaphor: ReFantazio
Statue of Liberty Award for Best World Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Tin Pan Alley Award for Best Music in a Game Astro Bot
Great White Way Award for Best Acting in a Game Troy Baker as Indiana Jones in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Coney Island Dreamland Award for Best AR/VR Game Batman: Arkham Shadow
Central Park Children’s Zoo Award for Best Kids Game Astro Bot
A-Train Award for Best Mobile Game Zenless Zone Zero
Freedom Tower Award for Best Remake Silent Hill 2
Chumley’s Speakeasy Award for Best Hidden Gem Mouthwashing
NYC GWB Award for Best DLC Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Knickerbocker Award for Best Games Journalism Simone De Rochefort & Clayton Ashley
