The Golden Joystick Awards 2025 has crowned a new champion, and it's a game that has taken the industry by storm! Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has dominated the ceremony, claiming an impressive seven awards, including the prestigious Ultimate Game of the Year.
This RPG masterpiece, developed by Sandfall Interactive, is a love letter to classic turn-based RPGs. With a small team of just 30 people, they've crafted a game that has captivated critics and players alike. Sandfall's CEO and creative director, Guillaume Broche, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming recognition, acknowledging the surreal success they've achieved.
But what sets Clair Obscur apart? It's not just the captivating storyline and immersive battles; it's the exceptional performances by Jennifer English and Ben Starr, who took home the Best Lead and Best Supporting Performer awards. And that's not all—the game also dominated in Best Soundtrack, Best Storytelling, and Best Visual Design categories.
And here's where it gets interesting: Clair Obscur is also a strong contender for this year's Game Awards, with a whopping 12 nominations. But will it beat the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6, which has already snagged two awards despite its delay? Only time will tell.
The Golden Joystick Awards also recognized other outstanding titles. Donkey Kong Bananza, a Nintendo Switch 2 release, won the Critics Choice award, while the survival climbing game Peak won the Streamers Choice award, presented by YouTuber Elz the Witch. With over 21 million public votes cast, the ceremony celebrated the diverse range of games and the passionate community that supports them.
Now, let's dive into the full list of winners. From Best Storytelling to Ultimate Game of the Year, each category showcases the best the gaming industry has to offer. And with such a competitive field, every win is a testament to the hard work and creativity of the developers.
So, what do you think of Clair Obscur's remarkable success? Is it a deserving winner, or are there other games you feel should have been recognized more? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss the games that captivated us this year!
