BAFTA Excludes DLC from Game of the Year Nominations

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has announced its extensive longlist for the 2025 BAFTA Games Awards. A total of 58 titles, selected from 247 submissions, are vying for awards across 17 categories. These games were released between November 25, 2023, and November 15, 2024.

The final nominations will be revealed on March 4, 2025, with the awards ceremony taking place on April 8, 2025.

Best Game Contenders:

Ten games are in the running for the coveted "Best Game" award:

• ANIMAL WELL
• Astro Bot
• Balatro
• Black Myth: Wukong
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
• Helldivers 2
• The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
• Metaphor: ReFantazio
• Thank Goodness You’re Here!
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Following Baldur's Gate 3's six-award sweep at the 2024 BAFTAs, this year's competition promises to be equally fierce.

Other Award Categories:

While not competing for "Best Game," many other titles are eligible for awards in 16 additional categories: Animation, Artistic Achievement, Audio Achievement, British Game, Debut Game, Evolving Game, Family, Game Beyond Entertainment, Game Design, Multiplayer, Music, Narrative, New Intellectual Property, Technical Achievement, Performer in a Leading Role, and Performer in a Supporting Role.

Notable Omissions from the "Best Game" Category:

A significant decision by BAFTA this year is the exclusion of several high-profile releases from the "Best Game" category. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, and Silent Hill 2 are notably absent. This is in line with BAFTA's rules, which disqualify remasters released outside the eligibility period, full remakes, and substantial DLC from the "Best Game" and "British Game" categories. However, these titles remain eligible for other awards, such as Music, Narrative, and Technical Achievement.

The full BAFTA Games Awards longlist is available on the official BAFTA website. The absence of Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree from the "Best Game" category is particularly noteworthy, although its eligibility for other awards remains. This year's awards promise a fascinating showcase of gaming excellence.