Six One Indie has announced The Indie Game Awards 2024, an awards-only ceremony dedicated to celebrating independent games and developers. The inaugural ceremony will air on December 19 at 4:00 p.m. PT / 7:00 p.m. ET, and honor achievements in categories such as innovation, storytelling, artistry, and more. You will be able to watch it on YouTube.
The Indie Game Awards will feature presenters from Black Salt Games, Innersloth, Raw Fury, Toge Productions, Wishes Unlimited, and Yacht Club Games. Nominees across 15 categories were selected by a curation jury that includes Six One Indie, Women-Led Games, Latin American Games Showcase, Wholesome Games, Dames-4-Games, The Indie Informer, and MinnMax. The judging committee also includes Giant Bomb, Spawn on Me, Wanderbots, AshSaidHi, Playcrafting, and other prominent voices from the independent games space.
The nominees are as follows:
Debut Game
Recognizing the innovation, creativity, and impact of a studio that has set a high standard right from the start with its first commercial launch.
Notable Achievement in Accessibility
Recognizing a game that prioritizes inclusivity by offering extensive adjustments and thoughtful options, ensuring an equitable and enjoyable experience for all players regardless of their abilities.
Music
Recognizing a game with captivating the musical compositions that enhance immersion, evoke emotions, and leave a memorable impact on players.
Visual Design
Recognizing a game that exemplifies a unique, powerful, and captivating art style, honoring the creativity and artistry that elevate the visual experience and leave a lasting impression on players.
Bite-Sized Game
Recognizing a standout title that delivers an impactful and engaging experience within a brief playtime.
Innovation
Recognizing a game that pushes boundaries with its unique premise or gameplay twist; an experience that captivates players and redefines expectations in the industry.
Emotional Impact
Recognizing a game that profoundly resonates with players through personal, emotional, and thematic experiences, leaving a lasting impression and fostering deep connections with their audience.
Gameplay Design
Recognizing a game with exceptional gameplay mechanics that contribute to the overall flow, challenge, and enjoyment of the game, encouraging players to immerse themselves fully in the experience.
Community Management
Recognizing an individual or studio that excels in fostering a vibrant and inclusive community through exceptional engagement, support, and communication that enhances player experience and builds lasting connections.
Narrative
Recognizing a game that delivers a powerful narrative with compelling characters, immersive worlds, and/or thought-provoking themes.
Storyteller
Recognizing an exceptional storyteller whose profound narratives in games create lasting impressions, weaving unforgettable experiences that resonate deeply with players.
(Recipient will be announced during The Indie Game Awards 2024.)
Women-Led Game
Recognizing the outstanding achievements of a game developed by a women-led indie studio, celebrating innovation, creativity, and the unique perspectives brought to life through diverse storytelling and gameplay.
Solo Development
Recognizing a game crafted by a single full-time developer, as well as the dedication, creativity, and passion that goes into bringing a vision to life from concept to completion.
Industry Impact
Recognizing individuals and/or organizations that have made remarkable and positive contributions to the indie scene throughout the year.
(Recipients will be announced during The Indie Game Awards 2024.)
Game of the Year
Recognizing a game that has made a significant impact in the industry through its unique storytelling, artistic vision, and gameplay mechanics.
- 1000xRESIST (sunset visitor)
- Animal Well (Billy Basso)
- ARCO (Franek, Max Cahill, Bibiki, Fayer)
- Balatro (LocalThunk)
- Crypt Custodian (Kyle Thompson)
- Lorlei and the Laser Eyes (Simogo)
- Mouthwashing (Wrong Organ)
- Neva (Nomada Studio)
- Nine Sols (RedCandleGames)
- UFO 50 (Mossmouth)
Watch the nominees announcement video below.
