Saluting Recent Game of the Year Winners 

Alongside prestigious acting awards like the Oscars, numerous other industries honor their biggest stars. For example, in the soccer sphere, the Ballon d’Or goes to the finest player from that particular season. Likewise, in the games industry, winning a Game of the Year award is the pinnacle. 

Over the years, gamers have been treated to some exceptional releases, many of which have won the industry’s ultimate prize. Competition is strong too, as gamers are inundated with must-play gaming titles, including hits from today like Fortnite, new releases like 007 First Light, and some undeniable favorites like Hot As Hades Power Combo and other casino online games. However, despite the array of superb gaming products out there, some games have managed to rise to the very top and bring home the Game of the Year accolade. 

With all that in mind, below we briefly highlight some of the most memorable Game of the Year winners from recent times.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 won in 2025

Having reigned supreme in 2025, last year’s Game of the Year winner is a title you simply have to experience for yourself. Offering a beautiful combination of evilness through the Paintress and perfect real-time active mechanics that deliver a faultless gaming experience, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a masterpiece. In fact, for fans of the turn-based role-playing genre, it’s an essential game to purchase. 

The Last of Us Part II brought it home in 2020

As a franchise, The Last of Us has done extremely well overall. The highlight for many, though, is The Last of Us Part II, the Game of the Year winner in 2020. Sure, it did divide opinion within the gaming community, but there’s no denying just how impressive the game is when it comes to zombie-based gaming experiences, plus a story that contained numerous twists and turns. 

God of War was triumphant in 2018

Ask many diehard gamers what their favorite release from the last decade is, and some of them will undoubtedly refer to God of War. A winner in 2018, this beloved console option features memorable wars against some of the most formidable gods in the gaming space, with these Greek powerhouses representing a stern test. However, alongside the game’s battling aspect, players can witness Kratos attempting to escape the chaos, all while trying to be a doting dad. A release fans of the Norse world will adore, God of War is a fantastic game. 

Overwatch won in 2016

After beating the likes of Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End and Titanfall 2 to the award in 2016, Overwatch cemented itself as one of the best games ever. A battle-filled delight where players take part in epic clashes while using an array of weapons and unique abilities, this beloved arena multiplayer shooter’s major triumph was hardly a surprise. In fact, with many members of the gaming community viewing it as a cultural icon in the gaming sphere, Overwatch’s impact cannot be understated. In terms of multiplayer shooters, it’s one of the very best ever. 

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild delivered in 2017

As one of the most iconic franchises we’ve seen, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was expected to deliver when it was released on the Wii U and the Nintendo Switch in 2017. Containing alluring quests and a selection of amazing adventures, plus a new and improved presentation as players embark on a mission to kill Ganon, it’s a blast. Also boasting a stunning open world package filled with endless possibilities, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild deserved its prize.