Written by Kianna Best on Mar 5, 2025. Posted in Awards and Festivals

Nominations announced for BAFTA Games Awards

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has officially announced the nominations for the 21st annual BAFTA Games Awards, recognizing the best in video game artistry, storytelling, and technical achievement. Following a live stream led by BBC Radio 1 critic, this year’s nominations were revealed, consisting of a mix of major titles and standout indie games, reflecting the industry's evolving landscape.

 

 

Leading the pack is Ninja Theory’s Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, which has secured an impressive 11 nominations, including categories such as British Game, Game Beyond Entertainment, and Narrative. Despite its multiple nods, the psychological action-adventure title was notably absent from the Best Game category, sparking discussion among fans and critics alike.

 

Closely following with eight nominations each are Astro Bot and The Chinese Room’s Still Wakes the Deep, two highly acclaimed titles that have resonated strongly with players. Thank Goodness You’re Here! also garnered significant recognition, receiving seven nominations.

 

The most prestigious category, Best Game, features six nominees competing for the top honour. The contenders are:

 

• Astro Bot

• Balatro

• Black Myth: Wukong

• Helldivers 2

• The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

• Thank Goodness You’re Here!

 

 

BAFTA’s approach to game awards is distinct from other industry accolades, as it emphasises craft categories rather than traditional genre-based awards. These categories highlight achievements in Animation, Artistic Achievement, Audio Achievement, Music, Narrative, and Technical Innovation. This year, 11 British studios received nominations, and three of the top four most-nominated games were developed in the UK, further showcasing the strength of the country’s gaming industry.

 

The diversity of nominees reflects the broad range of gaming experiences available today. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, for instance, has been praised for its deep narrative and mental health themes, fitting for the Game Beyond Entertainment category. Astro Bot has been recognized for its innovative platforming mechanics, while Helldivers 2 has gained popularity for its cooperative multiplayer action.

 

“Today’s nominations are a celebration of 41 outstanding games that showcase the very best of the British and international games industry,” commented Tara Saunders, chair of BAFTA’s Games Committee. “They put game titles onto the global stage, unearthing hidden gems alongside the best-known game experiences of the year. A nomination is an incredible achievement for any team or individual, especially during what continues to be a turbulent and trying time for our industry. I extend my congratulations to each and every nominee for your incredible work, skill and endurance.”

 

Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA, expressed enthusiasm for this year’s nominees across the “fresh, bold and fantastically varied genres,” emphasising the broad spectrum of talent represented. 

 

The winners of the 21st BAFTA Games Awards will be announced on April 8, 2025, during a ceremony in London. The event will be streamed live globally on BAFTA’s YouTube and Twitch channels, allowing gaming enthusiasts worldwide to join in celebrating the industry's achievements.