Indie Games Battle: What Makes a Winner?

The Game Awards has a category that always stirs up debate: Best Independent Game. Why? Because people can't agree on what makes a game "indie". Take 2023, for example, where Dave the Diver got nominated. It was developed by Mintrocket, a division of big publisher Nexon. Meanwhile, Baldur's Gate 3, self-published by Larian Studios, didn't make the cut. The Awards say an indie game takes more risks and isn't tied to big publishers. But it's not that simple. Games from small publishers like Devolver Digital and Annapurna Interactive often get nominated too. And sometimes, the most praised indie games don't get recognized. Like in 2022, when hit game Stray won, but another great game, Vampire Survivors, wasn't even nominated. Some games that could have been frontrunners get shifted to other categories, like Best Debut Indie Game or Games For Impact. In 2023, Cocoon, directed by star indie creator Jeppe Carlsen, won in Debut. But it could have been in the main category too. 2024 has a strong lineup. Balatro, a poker roguelite, is really popular and has high ratings. But it might be too "systemic" and not "artistic" enough for some voters. UFO 50, a collection of 50 retro games, is a critic darling. But it's overwhelming and hard to get into. Animal Well is a spooky Metroidvania, very indie. But its buzz has faded, and it might be too confusing for some. Satisfactory, a factory-building game, is a major hit. But it's so big, it might not feel indie. The Rise of the Golden Idol, a detective mystery, could make up for the overlooked first game. There are other contenders too. Thank Goodness You’re Here! is an absurdist comedy that critics love. But it might be too specific for the jury. Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is a puzzle adventure. But it might be too obscure. Tactical Breach Wizards is funny and smart. But tactics games aren't typical for indie awards. The Plucky Squire had a lot of hype, but its sales and reviews were underwhelming.