Last night, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the critically acclaimed RPG from Sandfall Interactive, was awarded Game of the Year, only to have the accolade revoked hours later due to accusations of AI utilization in the game’s development.
Insider Gaming first reported that the Indie Game Awards rescinded both the Game of the Year and Debut Game titles after the voting process was completed and the award show was recorded for airing on Friday.
“The Indie Game Awards maintains a strict policy regarding the use of generative AI in the nomination and award processes,” said a statement from their official website. “When Sandfall Interactive submitted the game, they affirmed that no generative AI was involved in its development. However, with the confirmation of AI-generated art being used in production coinciding with the Indie Game Awards 2025 premiere, this results in the disqualification of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 from its nomination.”
Although the disputed assets were removed, it contradicts our established regulations. Therefore, the IGAs nomination committee has decided to officially revoke both the Debut Game and Game of the Year awards.
With both awards now abandoned, the Indie Game Awards has awarded them to the next highest-ranking games in each category. Consequently, Blue Prince has been named Game of the Year while Sorry We’re Closed has won the Debut Game award.
Both developers were asked to provide acceptance speeches, which will likely be included in next year’s broadcast.
Did Expedition 33 Use AI?
Earlier in the week, Expedition 33 entered discussions regarding AI use in gaming after Larian CEO Swen Vincke stated that while Generative AI will not be used in their new Divinity project, it could be employed during other developmental stages.
