2012: The Game Awards Era Begins
In 2012, Barack Obama was president, and gamers were outraged over the conclusion of Mass Effect 3. Harvey Smith and Raphael Colantonio, both from Arkane Studios, were aboard a private jet to the Spike Video Game Awards in Los Angeles. Dishonored was nominated for several awards, ultimately winning Best Action-Adventure Game, while it lost others such as Game of the Year to Telltale’s The Walking Dead.
Contrast with Today
Fast forward 13 years later, Donald Trump is president, and gamers are debating the attractiveness of Lara Croft. Arkane Austin no longer exists, though Smith and Colantonio continue to work in game development. The Game Awards have shifted to a streaming format as cable TV declines, with Geoff Keighley remaining a constant presence through these changes.
Behind the Scenes of the Awards
The effort that goes into organizing these award shows is significant, involving diverse teams from multiple companies. The Peacock Theater, which hosts The Game Awards, accommodates up to 7,100 attendees, and organizers must carefully allocate seating. Unlike traditional awards shows funded by ad sales, the Game Awards operates primarily through sponsorships and the sale of revealing spots.
Challenges of Ticket Sales
Ticket prices for the Game Awards are on the rise; a 60-second trailer can cost around $450,000, while a three-minute trailer can exceed $1 million. Smaller studios nominated for awards often receive only two complimentary tickets, leading some to purchase additional tickets at full price, compounding costs and limiting attendance for those with tight budgets.
Seat Fillers and Special Access
The complexities of inviting nominees to an industry award show grow when opening attendance to the public. Recent instances have shown individuals able to buy tickets and access the ceremony without formal invitations. Smaller studios sometimes struggle to secure affordable seats, prompting some developers to explore seat filler programs to experience the event.
The Importance of Recognition
Keighley aspires for The Game Awards to represent a grand celebration of gaming, yet faces tension in balancing awards with promotional content. Many developers emphasize the significance of receiving recognition, as a win at the Game Awards can profoundly impact a struggling studio or pave the way for future projects.
Disparities in the Industry
The Game Awards illustrate the divide within the gaming industry, where large studios can afford hefty promotional slots while smaller teams grapple with high ticket prices for attendance. The industry continuously navigates the contradicting goals of celebration and commercial promotion, reflecting broader disparities among developers.
