The Game Business Show Interview: Geoff Keighley on the impossible balancing act of running The Game Awards
Dec 9, 2025
In this conversation, Geoff Keighley, the creative force behind The Game Awards, dives into the complex orchestration of the event. He shares insights on the controlled chaos of show preparation and the balancing act between awards and world premieres. Geoff highlights how indie games find their moment to shine, while also discussing the innovation in game reveals and distribution changes, such as partnerships with Prime Video. He underscores the importance of live audiences and the unique challenges in acknowledging industry issues during such a celebratory occasion.
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Controlled Chaos Before The Show
- Geoff Keighley describes the pre-show period as 'controlled chaos' where trailers and orchestra medleys converge.
- He credits a strong team and long planning for turning year-long work into a cohesive live event.
Plan Announcements With Developers
- Balance awards, world premieres and musical acts to serve multiple audiences and create a broad live audience.
- Work with studios through the year on trailers and rough cuts to shape how games appear on the show.
Announcements Amplify Award Impact
- Announcements broaden the audience, which amplifies award impact and sales for developers.
- Keighley sees the show as an ingredient that can boost visibility for nominated games.