The Game Awards keeps growing each year. While some viewers grumble about its long runtime or certain game trailers, this event has become our modern-day E3. It’s not just about awards; it’s also a stage for big game reveals. Host Geoff Keighley recently shared why he believes both aspects matter.
“Many different people tune in,” Keighley explained in an interview with The Game Business. “It’s a balancing act. Some want only awards, while others are eager for announcements.”
He pointed out a cycle: larger viewership means more visibility for celebrated games, both big and small. This can lead to increased sales for developers. Keighley mentioned, “When we give out awards, many people are watching. Plenty of games see a real sales boost because of the event.”
Take Balatro, for instance. By the time The Game Awards 2024 aired, this game was already popular. Winning awards helped push it into the spotlight even more, especially with its new mobile version. Games that start with a niche audience can suddenly reach a broad crowd.
Even nominations can make a difference. Rhys Elliott from Alinea Analytics reported that Game of the Year nominees often experience significant sales increases after the event. The frontrunner, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, received the biggest boost, while titles like Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 saw sales jump by around 100,000 copies during that time.
According to Elliott, holiday sales play a crucial role, too. That’s why winners often lower their prices right after the show to maximize their moment in the spotlight.
This blend of recognition and exposure is what makes The Game Awards so impactful. It’s not just a ceremony; it’s a launchpad for many games, shaping the industry and influencing sales trends.
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Geoff Keighley,The Game Awards
