Get ready for the Game Awards with some spirited predictions! The hosts critique the design of gaming awards and propose imaginative alternatives. Discussions delve into standout titles for the Best RPG and Best Action Adventure categories, alongside playful banter about the event. They analyze the artistic merits of nominees like Hellblade 2 and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, while humorously speculating on potential surprises. Personal anecdotes about gaming experiences add a relatable touch to their insights on the industry's highlights.
The hosts question the representation of the Game Award trophy, suggesting it fails to encapsulate the essence of gaming achievement.
Predictions about nominees and winners highlight the unpredictability of the Game Awards, influenced by gaming culture and community support.
The podcast reflects on the evolution of game design, emphasizing lessons learned from past titles to innovate future gaming experiences.
Deep dives
Discussing the Game Award Trophy Design
The conversation centers on the physical design of the Game Award trophy, which features a minimalistic silver statue of a flying angel designed by Weta Workshop. The hosts express ambivalence about the trophy's representation, questioning whether it truly embodies the essence of a game award. They explore alternative ideas for what the trophy could be, suggesting designs like iconic gaming symbols such as the Triforce from The Legend of Zelda or a sword reminiscent of gaming lore. The discussion emphasizes the disconnect between the award's visual representation and the spirit of gaming achievement it aims to celebrate.
Looking Ahead to the Game Awards
The hosts reflect on their expectations for the upcoming Game Awards, predicting various nominees and discussing potential winners across multiple categories. They note that while the list of awards is extensive, some categories feel less relevant, leaving them to prioritize the more significant awards. They also provide insight into the nominees for Most Anticipated Game, highlighting the hype around titles like Grand Theft Auto 6 and Death Stranding 2. This leads to a broader commentary on the unpredictability of the awards, questioning how the jury will vote and the influence of popular opinion.
The Length and Experience of the Award Show
The hosts share their personal experiences and insights about attending the Game Awards, commenting on the lengthy duration of the event and the challenge of maintaining audience engagement. They highlight the lack of sustenance during the show, suggesting that attendees should eat beforehand to avoid discomfort. The discussion also touches on the networking aspect of the event, emphasizing that it serves as a significant opportunity for industry professionals, despite the potential discomfort for general attendees. They conclude that for most people, watching from home is likely a more enjoyable experience.
The Challenge of Predicting Winners
The hosts engage in a lively debate about the nominees across different award categories, expressing varying opinions on which games deserve recognition. They examine specific contenders for Best Game of the Year and discuss the intricacies involved in predicting outcomes based on past award trends. This leads to speculation about the influence of gaming culture, marketing, and community support on the voting process. Through their conversation, they emphasize the difficulty in narrowing down choices, given the subjective nature of gaming experiences.
Contemplating the Future of Game Design
A retrospective discussion unfolds regarding the evolution of game design, particularly reflecting on classics like Vice City and modern titles that push boundaries. They critique the advancements made in sequels and expansions, emphasizing how game developers learn from past titles to innovate. The hosts draw parallels between the nostalgic gameplay of old games and the immersive experience of current titles, suggesting that both have their place in the gaming landscape. This conversation underlines the continuous challenges and opportunities that game designers face in meeting the evolving expectations of players.
Ahead of the annual Game Awards spectacle, Frushtick and Griffin make their predictions on which games will take home statues. Does Balatro really have a chance to win it all?
Get the full list of games (and other stuff) discussed at www.besties.fan. Want more episodes? Join us at patreon.com/thebesties for three bonus episodes each month!
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