Astro Bot has emerged as the standout winner at the 2025 BAFTA Games Awards, held on April 8, 2025, in London, securing five prestigious awards including the coveted title of Best Game. The 3D platformer, developed by Team Asobi for PlayStation, triumphed in categories such as Best Animation, Audio Achievement, Family Game, and Game Design, showcasing its widespread acclaim and popularity.
The BAFTA Games Awards, which celebrated its 21st anniversary this year, recognized a diverse array of titles that were released between November 25, 2023, and November 15, 2024. Despite Astro Bot's dominance, the evening also highlighted several other notable games. The horror title Still Wakes the Deep, set on a Scottish oil rig in the 1970s, garnered three awards, including New Intellectual Property and two performance accolades for its actors Alec Newman and Karen Dunbar.
Helldivers 2, a surprise hit from Arrowhead Game Studios, also made its mark by winning two awards for Best Multiplayer and Best Music. The game had quickly gained popularity after its release, prompting developers to enhance server capacity to accommodate the influx of players. Johan Pilestedt, the chief creative officer at Arrowhead, expressed his gratitude during the acceptance speech, noting how players had shared stories of reconnecting with friends through the game.
In addition to these winners, the British game Thank Goodness You're Here! was honored as the Best British Game. This quirky title, developed by Yorkshire-based Coal Supper, features a unique narrative and voice performances from its creators, Will Todd and James Carbutt. Upon receiving the award, they encouraged others to share their stories authentically, stating, “We hope this inspires you to tell your own story in your own voice without compromise.”
Balatro, a poker-themed card game developed by the anonymous LocalThunk, took home the award for Best Debut Game. The game has been praised for its innovative mechanics and engaging gameplay. Actor Ben Starr, who accepted the award on behalf of the developer, humorously donned a jester’s hat and urged the audience to support independent games, emphasizing their vital role in the industry.
Other notable winners included Neva, which won the Artistic Achievement award, and Metaphor: ReFantazio, which claimed the Narrative award. Tales of Kenzera: Zau was recognized in the Game Beyond Entertainment category, while Vampire Survivors received the Evolving Game award. Meanwhile, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, despite leading the nominations with 11, only secured one award for Technical Achievement.
The evening also featured a special moment as Yoko Shimomura, the legendary composer known for her iconic soundtracks in games like Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy, was awarded the BAFTA Fellowship for her outstanding contributions to the gaming industry. In her acceptance speech, she reflected on her journey and the support she received throughout her career, stating, “The fact I am standing here at all is no thanks to my own efforts, but to the people who have supported me. I feel if the music I have made has resonated with one person and touched their hearts in one way, it was worth it.”
The BAFTA Games Awards continue to be a significant event in the gaming calendar, celebrating the creativity and innovation of developers across the globe. As the industry evolves, these awards shine a light on both established franchises and emerging talents, ensuring a bright future for gaming.
Here’s the full list of winners from the 2025 BAFTA Games Awards:
- Animation: Astro Bot
- Artistic Achievement: Neva
- Audio Achievement: Astro Bot
- Best Game: Astro Bot
- British Game: Thank Goodness You're Here!
- Debut Game: Balatro
- Evolving Game: Vampire Survivors
- Family: Astro Bot
- Fellowship: Yoko Shimomura
- Game Beyond Entertainment: Tales of Kenzera: ZAU
- Game Design: Astro Bot
- Multiplayer: Helldivers 2
- Music: Helldivers 2
- Narrative: Metaphor: ReFantazio
- New Intellectual Property: Still Wakes The Deep
- Performer in a Leading Role: Alec Newman (Still Wakes The Deep)
- Performer in a Supporting Role: Karen Dunbar (Still Wakes The Deep)
- Technical Achievement: Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
The BAFTA Games Awards not only honor the best in gaming but also highlight the collaborative spirit of the industry, where creativity and innovation thrive.
