The Game Awards
The Game Awards 2025: an inside look at the gala, the most emotional edition yet, which changed Clair Obscur
We experienced it firsthand: the vibrant atmosphere and global recognition for a title born out of passion.
The Game Awards 2025 is now in the history books. For me, the event had a special twist this year, as I had the opportunity to be there in person, and contrary to what I expected, this gala had a palpable energy.
The atmosphere was a perfect mix of nervousness and festive spirit that precedes the most important night in video games. From the bustle of reporters around the Peacock Theater to the parade of attendees dressed in everything from formal wear to comfortable attire, everyone shared a sense of certainty: this would be the big night for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The atmosphere not only anticipated awards, but also the recognition that the global community was about to write a new page in the history of the medium.
What is the atmosphere like in the hall during the gala?
While watching The Game Awards from home or the office has been pretty much the norm in recent years, being there in person offers a unique perspective, especially when it comes to the flow of the event. One of the first things you notice is the initial disconnect with some of the award winners. The first 30 minutes of the ceremony often feel cold and soulless. In fact, several awards recognizing hard work in multiple categories are handed out quickly, almost telegraphically; a mention of a few seconds before moving on to the big stars of the night. Although the overall pace was more dynamic and entertaining than in previous editions, this initial rush detracts from the efforts of many developers who put their hearts into their work; we know this from the outset because we have interviewed many of them throughout the year.
It is important to highlight Geoff Keighley’s opening speech, in which he was sincere and emotional when talking about the death of his father, David Keighley, who was the first Chief Quality Officer at IMAX.
In addition, at the beginning of the year, Keighley lost his home due to a natural disaster. “I don’t usually open up about personal things on stage, but 2025 tested me in ways I didn’t expect,” Keighley said. “In January, my home burned down to nothing but ashes here in the Los Angeles fires. And just a few months ago, I lost my dad, who quietly sat in this audience every single year--proud, supportive, always cheering us on.”
“My mom’s here tonight, and we’ve left an empty seat beside her in his honor. I miss you, dad.” Perhaps he could have honored his father a little more, but also, if we look at it coldly, he didn’t want to be “the star” on this occasion.
As attendees, we also watched these announcements on two side screens, which allowed us to follow all the commercials—including the promotion for Hogwarts Legacy, which will be free forever, causing the Epic store to crash at that moment. However, the main attraction for the audience was seeing the elements that create the magic live.
Details that define a great night
The quality of the live productions was exceptional. Witnessing how the interaction with characters and special appearances—such as levitations assisted by semi-invisible cables from Control Resonant—merged with the broadcast was a reminder of the level of spectacle that Hollywood is capable of. However, some moments surpassed the show due to the human factor. The presence of The Muppets with Miss Piggy, whom we would love to see as a potential future host, demonstrated the effectiveness of a good physical show. Seeing the puppeteer behind Miss Piggy was a touching detail, a glimpse into the craftsmanship of illusion. But the most emotional moment was witnessing the genuine excitement. A few seats away, the husband of Jennifer Svedberg, writer of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, filmed his partner with contagious happiness as she received the award, shouting “Jen I Love You,” an intimate reminder of the passion behind these projects. These kinds of details connect you to the true essence of creation.
One of the highlights of the evening was seeing the statue of Divinity that went viral, as it adorned the exterior of the venue, becoming a magnet for curious onlookers and others seeking “Instagrammable” moments. The ceremony culminated with an unbeatable musical performance of the other GOTY nominees, a belated recognition for the other GOTY candidates, but sublime in terms of sound quality.
What impact will this Game Awards have?
For many, this 2025 gala felt truly representative for the first time. There was unanimous support in the room that dispelled mistrust and fear of controversy, a sentiment that was confirmed at the pre-gala cocktail parties with colleagues from around the world. The result was a historic milestone, with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 not only winning the coveted Game of the Year award, but also being crowned the most awarded title in the history of The Game Awards with nine statuettes. This validates a new philosophy: video games do not have to be entirely original, but can build on the foundations of the titles that preceded them to create a masterpiece. This edition was a powerful global statement, a declaration that the community is ready to embrace and celebrate the most moving stories and creations born of passion. Now, with the bar set so high, we can only wait for the announcements that will define the landscape of 2026, because with what we have seen, we can assure you that there is still an industry ahead. Congratulations to all the nominees and voters who made their presence felt at this gala, which, while still perfectible, has undoubtedly been the best since its inception.
Follow MeriStation USA on X (formerly known as Twitter). Your video game and entertainment website for all the news, updates, and breaking news from the world of video games, movies, series, manga, and anime. Previews, reviews, interviews, trailers, gameplay, podcasts and more! Follow us now!