The biggest night in gaming is locked in—The Game Awards 2025 will take place on Thursday, December 11, once again returning to the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Hosted by Geoff Keighley, this year’s show marks the 11th edition of the annual celebration, promising a packed evening of awards, world premieres, and maybe even a few jaw-dropping surprises.
A Night That Sets the Tone for Gaming’s Future
Since its inception in 2014, The Game Awards has evolved into much more than an awards show. It’s now a tentpole media event, rivaling E3 and Gamescom when it comes to announcements and industry buzz. The 2024 show drew over 100 million global livestreams, with last year’s reveals ranging from major AAA announcements like Monster Hunter Wilds to first looks at indie darlings that went on to become breakout hits.
Expect that energy to continue in 2025. The December timing positions the show as a kind of “season finale” for the gaming calendar, where developers and publishers drop last-minute teasers or kick off marketing for their next big thing. Think of it as gaming’s version of the Oscars—but with more trailers, more explosions, and way more fans tuning in from Twitch, YouTube, and Steam.
Why December 11 Matters
The chosen date is no accident. Hosting the show in early December allows most of the year’s major releases—like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, and possibly GTA VI—to be eligible for nominations. It also gives developers one last marketing push heading into the crucial holiday shopping season, while offering fans an adrenaline-fueled evening to look forward to just before the end-of-year slowdown.
And yes, like past shows, voting for categories like Game of the Year, Best Narrative, Best Ongoing Game, and Best Indie will open weeks in advance, with fan participation playing a key role in several categories.
The Venue: Peacock Theater, Now a Game Awards Staple
Formerly known as Microsoft Theater, the Peacock Theater has become the spiritual home of The Game Awards. Its central location in downtown LA and cutting-edge tech setup make it ideal for an event that blends live performances, cinematic trailers, and spontaneous moments that break the internet (remember “Bill Clinton kid”?). With Dolby Vision-quality visuals and a live orchestra led by Lorne Balfe, the venue will again serve as a stage for gaming’s most prestigious honors.
What Might Be Revealed?
If history is any guide, the 2025 show could give us new footage—or full reveals—of highly anticipated titles. Potential candidates include:
- Gears of War: E-Day
- Metroid Prime 4
- The Elder Scrolls VI teaser?
- Max Payne Remake updates
- And maybe something unexpected from Kojima Productions or FromSoftware
Don’t be surprised if the show also features hardware updates, VR innovations, or sneak peeks at streaming tech breakthroughs. The Game Awards has increasingly become a platform for not just games, but the future of interactive entertainment.
Public tickets are expected to go on sale in November 2025, but fans can also watch the event free online via dozens of platforms worldwide. If the past decade has shown us anything, it’s that The Game Awards is no longer just a celebration—it’s a global moment for everyone who loves games.
Key Takeaways
- The Game Awards 2025 will be held on December 11 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
- This annual ceremony honors outstanding video games while showcasing upcoming releases through world premieres.
- Tickets are already available for purchase for those who want to experience gaming’s biggest celebration in person.
Event Overview
The Game Awards 2025 will take place on December 11, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. This annual celebration honors outstanding achievements in the video game industry.
Following the 2024 ceremony scheduled for December 12, the 2025 event will continue the tradition of recognizing excellence in gaming. The Game Awards has already announced the date for this future ceremony, giving fans plenty of time to mark their calendars.
Established in 2014, The Game Awards has become one of the most prestigious events in the gaming world. It not only celebrates the best games of the year but also provides a platform for exciting new announcements.
The Peacock Theater in Los Angeles will once again serve as the venue for this highly anticipated event. Fans worldwide will be able to stream the ceremony live as gaming achievements are recognized across multiple categories.
The Game Awards typically features:
- Award presentations for categories like Game of the Year
- World premieres of upcoming games
- Live musical performances
- Special industry recognition awards
- Celebrity guests from gaming and entertainment
Viewers can expect the traditional mix of celebration, surprise announcements, and glimpses into the future of gaming that The Game Awards has become known for.
History of The Game Awards
The Game Awards has grown from a small industry event to one of gaming’s biggest celebrations. Founded by Geoff Keighley in 2014, it has become known for both honoring achievements and revealing upcoming titles.
Previous Years’ Highlights
The Game Awards began after the cancellation of Spike TV’s Video Game Awards. Geoff Keighley created the show to celebrate gaming excellence while maintaining editorial independence.
The ceremony has honored numerous standout titles over the years. “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” and “Baldur’s Gate 3” were big winners in recent ceremonies. The 2024 Game Awards took place on December 12 at the Peacock Theater, continuing the tradition of year-end celebrations.
Each year features memorable moments beyond just trophies. World premieres of new games have become a staple, with developers using the platform to announce major titles and updates.
Evolution of the Awards Ceremony
The Game Awards has transformed significantly since its early days. What began as a modest production now attracts millions of viewers across multiple streaming platforms worldwide.
The show’s format has been refined over time. Early ceremonies faced criticism for balancing award presentations with game announcements, but recent shows have improved this balance.
Production values have increased dramatically. The move to the Peacock Theater provided a larger, more prestigious venue for the growing ceremony.
International recognition has expanded as well. The Game Awards now includes categories highlighting diverse gaming experiences from around the world. This global approach has helped cement its status as gaming’s premier awards show.
Nominations and Categories
The Game Awards showcases excellence across the gaming industry through various competitive categories. Each year, nominees are selected based on critical acclaim, innovation, and impact in their respective areas.
Game of the Year Nominees
While the official Game of the Year (GOTY) nominees for The Game Awards 2025 have not been announced yet, they will likely feature titles released between late 2024 and November 2025. The GOTY category represents the highest honor at the ceremony, recognizing games that deliver exceptional experiences through technical achievement, gameplay innovation, and storytelling excellence.
Based on previous years, we can expect 5-6 games to receive nominations. The selection process typically involves input from an international jury of gaming publications and influencers. Nominees will be announced approximately three weeks before the December 11 ceremony.
Notable Categories
The Game Awards features numerous categories beyond Game of the Year. Based on past ceremonies, the 2025 event will likely include awards for:
- Best Game Direction
- Best Narrative
- Best Art Direction
- Best Score and Music
- Best Performance
- Best Independent Game
- Best Mobile Game
- Games for Impact
The “Games for Impact” category recognizes titles with meaningful social messages or cultural significance. Technical categories like “Best Audio Design” and platform-specific awards for PC, consoles, and VR/AR are also standard features.
Fan voting typically opens after nominations are announced, allowing the public to influence results alongside the jury panel in a weighted voting system.
Key Figures and Hosts
The Game Awards 2025 will continue its tradition of bringing together industry personalities and celebrities to celebrate gaming achievements. While specific participants for the 2025 ceremony haven’t been officially announced yet, we can look at past events to anticipate who might appear.
Host Geoff Keighley
Geoff Keighley, the creator and executive producer of The Game Awards, is expected to return as host for the 2025 ceremony. Since establishing the awards in 2014, Keighley has been the face of the event, guiding viewers through the presentations and world premieres.
Keighley’s background as a gaming journalist and producer gives him deep industry connections. These relationships help him secure exclusive game reveals that have become a hallmark of the show.
His hosting style balances professional presentation with genuine enthusiasm for gaming. This approach has helped The Game Awards grow from a niche industry event to a mainstream celebration of gaming culture.
Celebrity Appearances
The Game Awards typically features appearances from celebrities both within and outside the gaming world. Past ceremonies have included musicians, actors, and other entertainment figures who present awards or perform.
Snoop Dogg has been a memorable guest at previous Game Awards ceremonies. His appearances have added entertainment value and helped bridge the gap between gaming and mainstream pop culture.
Other past celebrity presenters have included Keanu Reeves, Gal Gadot, Tom Holland, and Vin Diesel. These appearances reflect gaming’s growing cultural significance.
Musical performances are also a staple of the ceremony. Previous shows have featured orchestras performing game soundtracks alongside mainstream artists presenting original music.
Notable Games and Publishers
The Game Awards 2025 is expected to feature an impressive lineup of games from major publishers. Industry insiders anticipate both award nominations for 2025’s biggest titles and exciting reveals for upcoming projects.
Expected Game Showcases
Several standout games from 2025 are likely to receive multiple nominations. Black Myth: Wukong continues to make waves with its stunning visuals and gameplay based on Chinese mythology. Since its successful launch, the game has maintained a strong player base.
Metaphor: Refantazio, the unique JRPG from Atlus, might compete in several categories after its critical acclaim. Balatro, the surprise hit roguelike poker game, could appear in indie categories following its massive popularity and influence on the genre.
Games released late in 2024 but eligible for 2025 nominations include Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Silent Hill 2. Both titles received praise for their innovative approaches to beloved franchises.
Astro Bot might feature prominently after becoming PlayStation’s breakout mascot title. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is also expected to receive recognition for its adventure gameplay and storytelling.
Publisher Highlights
Sony Interactive Entertainment will likely have a strong presence, showcasing both current hits and future PlayStation exclusives. Their continued success with Astro Bot has positioned them well for the awards.
Microsoft and Bethesda are expected to feature prominently, potentially revealing new content for their franchises following the reception of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.
Square Enix may use the platform to build on the momentum from Final Fantasy VII Rebirth while possibly teasing the highly anticipated final chapter of the remake trilogy.
Indie publishers like Devolver Digital could highlight their unique catalog after Balatro‘s success opened doors for more experimental titles. Their showcase might include upcoming games with similar innovative approaches.
FromSoftware and Bandai Namco might reveal their next projects, building on their reputation for creating critically acclaimed action games with challenging gameplay.
Media Coverage and Broadcast
The Game Awards 2025 will receive extensive media coverage across multiple platforms. Major gaming outlets and streaming services are preparing to bring this prestigious event to audiences worldwide on December 11, 2025.
Partnerships with IGN and Others
IGN has confirmed their continued partnership with The Game Awards for the 2025 ceremony. As one of the leading gaming media companies, they plan to provide comprehensive pre-show analysis, exclusive interviews with developers, and behind-the-scenes content.
Several other major gaming publications will offer extensive coverage including GameSpot, Polygon, and Game Informer. These outlets typically send journalists to the Peacock Theater for live reporting and immediate post-award interviews with winners.
Media credentials for the 2025 event are expected to be highly competitive. The press area at the Peacock Theater will accommodate approximately 200 journalists from around the world.
Live Streaming Platforms
YouTube remains the primary streaming platform for The Game Awards, with their 2024 broadcast drawing over 30 million concurrent viewers. For 2025, YouTube plans to enhance their viewing experience with interactive features allowing audiences to predict winners in real-time.
Twitch, Facebook Gaming, and Twitter will also carry the live broadcast. International platforms like Bilibili and Huya will stream the event to Asian markets with localized commentary.
Several popular content creators have announced plans to host co-streams with live reactions to the awards and game reveals. These alternative viewing options attracted millions of additional viewers in previous years.
Event Logistics and Venue
The Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles will host The Game Awards 2025 on December 11. This modern venue offers several amenities for attendees while being situated in a prime location within the L.A. Live entertainment complex.
Peacock Theater Facilities
The Peacock Theater (formerly known as Microsoft Theater) features a 7,100-seat capacity with excellent sightlines designed for live entertainment events. The venue boasts state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems that will enhance the Game Awards experience.
A spacious lobby area allows for pre-show networking and potential industry exhibits. The theater has multiple concession stands serving food and beverages throughout the event.
VIP areas and private boxes are available for industry executives and special guests. The theater’s design enables smooth traffic flow for the large crowd expected at this premier gaming event.
Technical facilities include high-speed internet infrastructure to support live streaming to millions of viewers worldwide.
Access and Accommodation
The Peacock Theater sits in the heart of downtown Los Angeles at 777 Chick Hearn Court within the L.A. Live complex. Public transportation options include nearby Metro stations, with the Pico Station being closest to the venue.
Parking is available in several structures surrounding L.A. Live, though attendees should plan to arrive early due to expected high attendance. Rideshare drop-off zones will be designated for convenient access.
Multiple hotels are within walking distance, including the JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton. Early booking is recommended as rooms fill quickly during major events.
The venue is fully ADA compliant with accessible seating, restrooms, and entry points. Attendees with special needs can contact the venue in advance for accommodation arrangements.
Promotional Activities
The Game Awards 2025 will feature comprehensive marketing efforts to build excitement and engage gaming communities worldwide. These activities will span digital platforms, partnerships, and creative campaigns leading up to the December event.
Pre-Event Buzz
The promotional campaign for The Game Awards 2025 is expected to begin several months before the December 11 ceremony. Social media teasers will likely appear on the official Game Awards accounts starting in late summer 2025.
Game publishers typically coordinate announcements with the event’s timeline, creating anticipation for potential game reveals. Geoff Keighley, the show’s producer and host, often participates in interviews and podcast appearances to generate excitement.
Community voting campaigns will probably launch in November, allowing fans to participate in selecting winners for various categories. These voting initiatives help build audience investment in the ceremony’s outcome.
Special countdowns and behind-the-scenes content may be released in the weeks leading up to December 11, giving fans glimpses of the preparation process.
Sponsorship and Marketing
Major gaming companies and technology brands will partner with The Game Awards as sponsors for the 2025 ceremony. These partnerships typically include prominent logo placement, dedicated segments, and exclusive advertising opportunities during the broadcast.
Digital marketing campaigns will likely run across platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and various social media networks. Cross-promotion with streaming services may increase, especially following past successful broadcasts on platforms like Kick.
Promotional merchandise including limited-edition collectibles might be released to commemorate the event. These items often become sought-after by gaming enthusiasts.
Regional marketing efforts will target international audiences, reflecting the global nature of the gaming community. Localized promotional content helps ensure worldwide engagement with the awards ceremony.
Anticipations and Predictions
As December 11, 2025 approaches, gaming fans worldwide are already speculating about what The Game Awards might bring. The annual ceremony at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles continues to be one of gaming’s biggest nights.
The Game of the Year (GOTY) trophy remains the most coveted award of the night. With several major titles scheduled for release in 2025, competition will likely be fierce among nominees.
Some industry insiders predict that the long-awaited sequels from major studios might dominate the nominations list. These include titles that have been in development for several years and are finally reaching players in 2025.
The voting process for nominees typically begins a few months before the ceremony. Fans should expect the official nominee announcements sometime in November 2025.
Potential GOTY Contenders:
- Elder Scrolls VI
- GTA VI
- The next Legend of Zelda title
- Several anticipated indie breakouts
Technical categories like Best Art Direction and Best Audio Design will also highlight games that push creative boundaries in 2025.
The ceremony will likely feature world premieres and surprise announcements, keeping with tradition. Many publishers save their biggest reveals for this global stage.
Viewership numbers are expected to surpass previous years as gaming continues to grow as the dominant entertainment medium worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Game Awards 2025 has generated many questions from gaming enthusiasts. Here are answers to some common inquiries about this prestigious event.
Who are the nominees for The Game Awards 2025?
The nominees for The Game Awards 2025 have not been announced yet. Nominations are typically revealed in November, about a month before the ceremony.
The selection process involves a jury of media outlets from around the world. These outlets evaluate games released during the eligibility period, which usually runs from late 2024 through most of 2025.
How can the public participate in The Game Awards voting process?
The public can vote through The Game Awards official website once nominations are announced. Voting typically opens in November 2025.
Fan votes count for 10% of the final results, while the remaining 90% comes from the jury of gaming media outlets. This system ensures both critical acclaim and public opinion are considered.
Each category allows one vote per day per user during the voting period.
Which games are competing for Game of the Year in 2025?
The Game of the Year nominees for 2025 have not been announced yet. These nominations will likely be revealed in November 2025.
Games released between approximately November 2024 and November 2025 will be eligible for consideration. The final nominees will represent the year’s most outstanding titles across various platforms.
Who will be presenting at The Game Awards 2025?
Presenters for The Game Awards 2025 have not been announced. The event typically features a mix of gaming industry figures, celebrities, and content creators.
Geoff Keighley will host the show as he has done since founding the event. Past ceremonies have included presenters from both within and outside the gaming industry.
Presenter announcements usually begin a few weeks before the ceremony.
What performances can we anticipate at The Game Awards ceremony?
The Game Awards 2025 will likely feature the Game Awards Orchestra performing music from nominated games. Additional musical guests may also appear.
Past ceremonies have included surprise performances by well-known artists and unique collaborations. The full performance lineup will be announced closer to the December 11 event date.
The show often includes both planned musical segments and impromptu moments that celebrate gaming culture.
Where can information about The Game Awards 2025 be found?
Official information about The Game Awards 2025 can be found on the event’s website at thegameawards.com and their social media channels.
Updates will also be shared through Geoff Keighley’s social media accounts and major gaming news outlets. As December approaches, more details about nominees, presenters, and special announcements will be released.
The ceremony will stream live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
