Megabonk’s developer, Vedinad cites ineligibility for best indie debut at the TGA: “I don’t think it qualifies”
Honesty in a fuzzy category.
In an unusual display of professional ethics, Vedinad, the solo developer behind the hit Vampire Survivors-style roguelike, Megabonk, has formally withdrawn their game’s nomination from The Game Awards 2025. The title was nominated for Best Debut Indie Game, but the developer insists that it does not meet the strict criteria for the award.
Vedinad shared the news on Megabonk’s social channels on Tuesday, explaining their difficult decision. “It’s an honor and a dream for Megabonk to be nominated for TGA,” they wrote, “but unfortunately, I don’t think it qualifies for the category ‘Debut Indie Game.’” The developer candidly explained their reason: they have worked on and released games previously under different studio names, meaning Megabonk is technically not their first project.
I'm withdrawing from The Game Awards.
— Megabonk (@MegabonkGame) November 18, 2025
It's an honor and a dream for Megabonk to be nominated for TGA, but unfortunately i don't think it qualifies for the category "Debut Indie Game"
I've made games in the past under different studio names, so Megabonk is not my debut game 🥸
The Best Debut Indie Game category is explicitly awarded to the “best debut game created by a new independent studio.” The debate over what truly qualifies as a debut often arises, especially in an industry where veteran developers frequently form new teams—like the groups behind past nominees such as Dispatch and 2023 winner Cocoon—making the definition inherently fuzzy. Vedinad’s decision focuses on the spirit of the award, ensuring that true newcomers receive the recognition.
Rapid response from Geoff Keighley
Following the developer’s public announcement, The Game Awards host Geoff Keighley quickly addressed the situation on his X account. Keighley confirmed that he spoke with the developer and that the organization will honor the request, stating, “We’re grateful for his honesty. As a result, MegaBonk will be removed from the category.”
.@MegabonkGame, a nominee for Best Debut Indie Game, reached out to clarify that he is an established solo developer who had been presenting himself as a new creator under the name Vedinad.
— Geoff Keighley (@geoffkeighley) November 18, 2025
We’re grateful for his honesty. As a result, MegaBonk will be removed from the category. pic.twitter.com/mTR5lmMubb
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Who will take Megabonk’s place in this category? Or will the slot be left empty? There’s still plenty of time until The Game Awards on 11 December 2025.
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