The Game Awards 2024 just wrapped up bringing various new games, and against all expectations, Astro Bot took home Game of the Year. You might be wondering how a platformer beat out heavy hitters like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Black Myth: Wukong. After spending time with most of the nominated games, let’s break down what makes this win special and why it’s causing such a stir in the gaming community.
Remember back in September when Astro Bot first released? The gaming landscape was packed with massive RPGs and action titles. A simple platformer didn’t seem like it would make much of an impact. But here we are in December, and this little robot has proven that sometimes the basics, done perfectly, can outshine even the biggest productions.
The answer lies in its perfect execution of everything it sets out to do. The game feels like a breath of fresh air in today’s complex gaming landscape. There’s no complicated story or intricate combat system – just pure, enjoyable platforming that works exactly as it should.
The controls are spot-on. Every jump feels precise, every movement responds exactly as you’d expect. The game takes familiar platforming ideas but adds modern touches that make sense. The way Astro moves through levels, how the PS5 features are used, the attention to small details – everything fits together perfectly.
Just when you think you’ve seen everything, the game introduces something new. Each level brings fresh ideas that feel natural to learn but still give you a good challenge. It’s the kind of game where you keep saying “just one more level” until you realize it’s 2 AM.
The win has definitely stirred up some debates online, and it’s easy to see why. Many expected the award to go to epic games like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth or Black Myth: Wukong. The reaction shows how passionate people are about their favorite games, and how gaming has become part of who we are.
Some say a “simple” platformer shouldn’t win against complex RPGs. But that misses the point. Making a perfect platformer is just as challenging as creating a massive RPG – they’re just different kinds of challenges. It’s like comparing a short story to a novel – both can be equally brilliant in their own ways.
I have to be honest here – while Astro Bot’s win is well-deserved, my heart was secretly rooting for Black Myth: Wukong. There’s something utterly captivating about this game, especially the combat and graphics. The game’s combat system is probably the most refined I’ve experienced this year.
Sure, Astro Bot deserved its win – it’s a fantastic game that does exactly what it sets out to do. But Black Myth: Wukong takes big risks with its unique setting and combat style, and those risks really pay off. The Player’s Voice Award it received speaks to how many other players felt the same way.
Here’s the thing about Game of the Year wins – they often tell us something about where gaming is heading. Astro Bot’s victory isn’t just about one game doing well. It’s a reminder that you don’t need complex systems or cutting-edge graphics to make something special. Sometimes all you need is solid gameplay, careful design, and an understanding of what makes games fun in the first place.
The debates will probably continue for a while. You’ll hear arguments about whether a platformer should win against more ambitious titles. But if you’re curious about what made Astro Bot stand out, give it a try. You might find yourself surprised by how something so straightforward can be so engaging. In the meantime, there’s no shortage of great games to play from this year’s nominees – each one brings something unique to the table.