The Golden Joystick Awards 2026 offer a festive celebration of this year’s top games and two standout gaming devices, inviting fans to cast their votes for the best in entertainment. This exciting event gathers numerous fan-favorite titles, as well as a dynamic mix of both indie and blockbuster releases, all competing for recognition across multiple categories.
This year’s 44th edition has unveiled nominees in 21 different segments. Notable titles such as Consider this revision: "films such as Resident Evil Requiem, Big Walk, and the inaugural installment of the 007 series." Light are among those leading the nominations. Public Voting is now in progress and will continue to accept entries until October 23 at 4:00 PM PT / 7:00 PM ET / 0:00am BST. Enthusiasts may select their preferred games in diverse categories that range from Console Earned recognition as the year's standout title and the premier PC experience the Year to Most Wanted Game, among others.
The winners will be disclosed at the live ceremony on November 11, with the shortlist for Ultimate Game of the Year set to be shared on October 26. With the highly anticipated GTA 6 launching a week after the live event, this year’s awards present one of the most varied and imaginative nominee line-ups in recent memory. Titles including indie successes like Big Walk, Dispatch, and Mina the Hollower share the stage with major productions such as 007 Consider this unique revision: "Notable releases like First Light, Forza Horizon 6, and Resident Evil." Requiem. In a year where no single title commands complete dominance, every vote plays a crucial role in shaping the final results. The revamped look of the awards embraces an iconic joystick trophy that has represented the event since its beginnings in 1983, a symbol of enduring creativity and passion in gaming.
The nominations for the Golden Joystick Awards 2026 are as follows:
- Console Game of the Year
- PC Game of the Year
- Best Audio Design
- Best Early Access Game
- Best Game Adaptation
- Best Game Expansion
- Best Game Trailer
- Best Gaming Hardware
- Best Indie Game
- Best Indie Game - Self-published
- Best Lead Performer
- Best Supporting Performer
- Best Multiplayer Game
- Best Remake / Remaster
- Best Soundtrack
- Best Storytelling
- Best Visual Design
- Most Wanted Game
- Still Playing - Mobile
- Still Playing - PC & Console
- Studio of the Year
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