When and Where the Show Takes Place
The Game Awards 2025 will stream live on December 11, 2025, from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Viewers can watch across major platforms, including YouTube, Twitch, and Amazon Prime Video, giving fans multiple ways to tune in. As reported by Radio Times, the broadcast begins at 7:30 p.m. EST, which means a 4:30 p.m. PST start for West Coast audiences.
The show has become an end-of-year tradition for players and developers alike. While the awards themselves highlight standout achievements across the industry, many viewers watch for the trailers, world premieres, and announcements that shape gaming’s next major cycles. Host and creator Geoff Keighley says the event is designed to celebrate the year’s accomplishments while offering a glimpse of what’s ahead.
The December timing reinforces that purpose, closing the year with recognition for both blockbuster franchises and smaller independent teams.
The Nominees for Game of the Year
The Game Awards revealed its Game of the Year finalists on November 17. This year’s six nominees are:
- Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
- Hades II
- Hollow Knight: Silksong
- Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
- Donkey Kong Bananza
- Kingdom Come Deliverance 2
Polygon noted that the mix of sequels, indie titles, and returning franchises reflects the industry’s growing diversity. During the livestream reveal, Keighley remarked, “This year’s nominees reflect the creativity and passion of developers across the globe,” underscoring the range of storytelling and design represented.
Fans can vote for their pick until December 10, combining public input with jury selections to determine the winners. This hybrid approach helps balance critical evaluation with community enthusiasm.
Other Categories and Standout Games
The Game Awards features dozens of categories, including Best Narrative, Best RPG, Best Indie, and Best Ongoing Game. According to Dexerto, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 leads the nominations with 12. Death Stranding 2 and Ghost of Yotei follow with 8 each, while Hades II earned 6 and Hollow Knight: Silksong received 5.
Sony Interactive Entertainment is the most-nominated publisher this year with 19 total nods. Kepler Interactive follows with 13, while Electronic Arts and Microsoft each secured 10. The competitive spread illustrates how many studios delivered notable releases in 2025.
Developers have expressed appreciation for the recognition. As Screen Rant reported, one studio representative said, “It’s rewarding to see our work acknowledged alongside so many talented teams,” a reminder of the years of effort behind each nominated game.
What Viewers Can Expect on the Night
While the awards remain the centerpiece, The Game Awards is equally known for premieres, musical performances, and surprise reveals. The Game Post notes that major studios often debut trailers for upcoming titles during the show, creating some of the most-watched reveal moments in gaming each year.
This combination of recognition and anticipation is part of the event’s appeal. Even if viewers aren’t invested in every nominated category, the broadcast offers a look at projects that could define the next wave of releases.
The show’s broad streaming availability ensures accessibility. With coverage across multiple platforms, anyone with an internet connection can participate, reinforcing the event’s role as a global gathering point for players, creators, and gaming communities.
