The nominations for The Game Awards were announced, revealing both expected and surprising contenders. While 'Tears of the Kingdom' and 'Baldur’s Gate III' dominate the Game of the Year category, the absence of Square Enix’s 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' raises eyebrows. Let's explore why this visually stunning JRPG was snubbed and the dedicated fanbase rallying behind its recognition.
The Game Awards: A Growing Popularity and Unique Voting System
Explore the rising popularity of The Game Awards and its unique fan voting system.
The Game Awards has been gaining popularity in recent years, aiming to become the gaming industry's equivalent of the Oscars or the Emmys. Hosted by Geoff Knightly, the award show stands out with its unique voting system. While most award shows rely solely on jury decisions, The Game Awards incorporates fan votes, accounting for 10% of the outcome.
This combination of fan and jury voting brings an exciting dynamic to the awards, allowing the gaming community to have a say in the winners. However, it also introduces surprises and unexpected nominations, as the preferences of the fans may differ from the jury's choices.
The Nominations: Expected and Surprising Contenders
Uncover the nominations for The Game Awards, featuring both expected and surprising contenders.
The recently announced nominations for The Game Awards have generated buzz and excitement among gamers. While some nominations were expected, such as the highly acclaimed 'Tears of the Kingdom' and the eagerly anticipated 'Baldur’s Gate III', there were also surprising contenders that caught the attention of many.
One notable absence from the nominations list is Square Enix's 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II', a visually stunning JRPG that has garnered critical acclaim. Let's delve into the reasons behind this surprising snub and the impact it has on the gaming community.
The Rise of 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II': A Niche Gem
Discover the captivating world of 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' and its niche appeal.
'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II', released earlier this year, has captivated players with its unique blend of turn-based gameplay and compelling narratives. The game allows players to control eight distinct characters, each with their own engaging storylines that eventually intertwine.
Featuring Square Enix's visually stunning HD-2D style, 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' has been hailed as not only the best JRPG of the year but also one of the greatest JRPGs ever made. Its retro-tinged aesthetics combined with a highly narrative-driven gameplay experience have won the hearts of many players.
Engaging Stories and Visual Splendor
The game's strength lies in its highly engaging stories, which require patience and investment from players to fully appreciate. Each character's journey is meticulously crafted, and as their paths intertwine, players uncover a rich and immersive world.
Moreover, the visually stunning HD-2D graphics elevate the game to new heights. The meticulously designed environments and beautifully animated characters immerse players in a world that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Snubbed for Nominations: Reasons and Speculations
Uncover the possible reasons behind the surprising absence of 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' from The Game Awards nominations.
Despite its critical acclaim and passionate fanbase, 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' did not receive any nominations at The Game Awards. This omission has left many fans disappointed and wondering about the reasons behind it.
One possible explanation is that the game's appeal in the West is considered niche, limiting its recognition among a broader audience. Additionally, the release of Square Enix's highly anticipated 'Final Fantasy XVI' may have overshadowed 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' in terms of media coverage and attention.
Furthermore, the game took longer to reach a million copies sold compared to its predecessor, which may have impacted its visibility and perceived success. These factors combined might have influenced the decision-makers to overlook the game in favor of more mainstream titles.
Underrated Score: Yasunori Nishiki's Musical Brilliance
Explore the exceptional score by Yasunori Nishiki for 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' and its surprising absence from The Game Awards nominations.
One aspect of 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' that garnered significant praise was its exceptional score composed by Yasunori Nishiki. As a regular collaborator with Square Enix, Nishiki delivered a musical masterpiece that enhanced the game's immersive experience.
The score features memorable battle themes and character songs that perfectly capture the essence of the game's world. Despite its brilliance, it is surprising that Nishiki's work did not receive a nomination for Best Score and Music at The Game Awards.
Nevertheless, fans of the game recognize and appreciate the musical brilliance that Nishiki brought to 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II', solidifying its place as a standout JRPG in terms of both gameplay and audiovisual experience.
The Biases of Award Shows: Advocating for Recognition
Reflect on the biases of award shows and the passionate fanbase advocating for 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II's' recognition.
Award shows, including The Game Awards, often reflect the biases of the judges and mainstream culture. While 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' may have been overlooked in the nominations, it has garnered a passionate fanbase that continues to advocate for its recognition.
Despite the disappointment, the game's dedicated fans appreciate its unique qualities and believe it deserves a place among the best in the industry. Their unwavering support showcases the impact and significance of 'OCTOPATH TRAVELER II' in the gaming landscape.