The gaming community is buzzing with anticipation for The Game Awards 2024, set to take place on December 12th.
As the event inches near, a recent confirmation regarding Game of the Year eligibility has ignited heated debate. The Game Awards has officially acknowledged that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, the highly acclaimed Elden Ring DLC, is eligible for the coveted Game of the Year award. This decision has left some gamers thrilled, while others are expressing their discontent.
Shadow of the Erdtree, released earlier this year, has been lauded for its content, narrative, and engaging gameplay, characteristics that often define a Game of the Year contender. The DLC takes players to a brand-new region known as the Land of Shadow, expanding the Elden Ring universe in many ways. Many argue that Shadow of the Erdtree delivers an experience akin to a full-fledged sequel, earning its place among potential Game of the Year nominees.
However, the inclusion of a DLC in the running for Game of the Year has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it undermines the very essence of the award.
The Game Awards is intended to celebrate the best complete game of the year, and some feel that a DLC, which is an extension of an existing game, shouldn't be competing in the same category. Critics of the decision contend that Shadow of the Erdtree’s Game of the Year eligibility creates an unfair advantage, potentially overshadowing standalone titles that present a more substantial creative and technical undertaking.
The debate extends beyond the conceptual to the logistical. The Game Awards features a limited number of nomination slots, and the inclusion of DLC like Shadow of the Erdtree raises concerns about the possible exclusion of deserving full-fledged games. Some argue that the addition of a dedicated DLC category would provide a more appropriate platform for recognizing exceptional expansions without diminishing the significance of the Game of the Year award.
Adding fuel to the fire, a recent update to The Game Awards FAQ page, specifically addressing DLC eligibility, has been perceived by some as a reactive measure, indicating that The Game Awards confirmation of Shadow of the Erdtree’s eligibility was a calculated decision anticipating the controversy. This suspicion further complicates the issue, leaving many questioning the motivations behind the rule change.
Despite the dissent, it's important to acknowledge that this isn't the first time a DLC has been recognized at The Game Awards. In 2016, The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine won the award for Best RPG, showcasing that exceptional expansions have previously been recognized within the event's framework.
However, the prospect of Shadow of the Erdtree winning the overall Game of the Year award is seen as a more significant departure from tradition, potentially establishing a precedent for future events.
Final Thought
While the gaming community remains divided on Shadow of the Erdtree's Game of the Year eligibility, there's no denying the significant impact the Elden Ring DLC has had. It has sparked discussions about the nature of awards, the evolving landscape of game development, and the value of expansions in the gaming industry.
As the nominee announcement stream approaches on November 20th, the question remains: will Shadow of the Erdtree secure a nomination for Game of the Year, and if so, how will this decision shape the future of The Game Awards?