The Independent Games Festival awards, also known as the IGFs, have managed to stand out from the plethora of video game awards by focusing on innovation rather than popularity. Unlike many other awards that are often dubbed as mere popularity contests, the IGFs have gained recognition for their commitment to highlighting unique and innovative games that may not have received mainstream attention.
One of the ways in which the Independent Games Festival awards showcase their winners and finalists is through the IGF Celebration Days Steam sale. This sale, running until July 20th, offers discounts on a variety of games that have been recognized by the IGFs throughout their history. From recent award winners like Rhythm Doctor to past favorites like Spelunky and Fez, the sale provides an opportunity for gamers to explore and experience these exceptional titles at a lower cost.
The judging process for the IGF awards is unique in that it involves a large pool of journalists and developers who review hundreds of submitted games to advocate for a select few. This initial stage is followed by a smaller group of hand-selected judges, primarily game developers, who determine the nominees and eventual winners. This transparent and multi-tiered approach ensures that deserving games, even those from lesser-known developers, have a chance to shine on the IGF stage.
One of the most significant impacts of the Independent Games Festival awards is their ability to elevate lesser-known games to the forefront of the industry. Games like Outer Wilds, which was awarded the Grand Prize in 2015, went from being an alpha build created by a team of students to a commercial success following its IGF win. This emphasis on discovering and promoting hidden gems has played a crucial role in diversifying the gaming landscape and expanding the horizons of players worldwide.
Beyond just recognizing individual games, the IGF awards contribute to the overall advancement of the video game medium. By prioritizing design and innovation in their selection process, the awards have fostered a culture that values creativity and artistic vision. This focus on pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas not only benefits the developers and winners but also enriches the gaming community as a whole.
The Independent Games Festival awards have made a significant impact on the video game industry by championing innovation, showcasing diverse talent, and advancing the medium as a whole. Through their transparent judging process, commitment to elevating unknown gems, and emphasis on design and creativity, the IGFs have carved out a unique space in the world of gaming awards. As the Celebration Days Steam sale continues to offer discounts on award-winning titles, gamers have the opportunity to explore a curated selection of exceptional games that embody the spirit of independent game development.
Leave a Reply