Vampire Survivors, Balatro shine at BAFTA Games Awards

The BAFTA Games Awards concluded last night, celebrating some of the most impactful games of the year. Among the top winners were Balatro, which clinched the Debut Game award, and Vampire Survivors, which was honored with the Best Evolving Game accolade. These wins are particularly noteworthy given the competition from heavyweights like Diablo IV and Final Fantasy XIV Online.

While the BAFTA Games Awards may not have the widespread reach of Geoff Keighley's Game Awards, they arguably surpass it in prestige. However, the absence of platform-specific categories, including mobile, has sparked discussions about visibility. The BAFTAs eliminated the mobile-specific category back in 2019, a decision rooted in the belief that games should be judged on their merits regardless of platform. This perspective was shared by Luke Hebblethwaite, a member of the BAFTAs game team, who emphasized that games should stand toe-to-toe irrespective of their platform.

Despite the lack of a dedicated mobile category, the success of games like Balatro and Vampire Survivors, which have significant mobile followings, highlights the impact of mobile gaming. Balatro, a roguelike deckbuilder, has created a buzz in the industry, while Vampire Survivors, after winning Best Game in 2023, continues to evolve and impress.

The absence of platform-specific awards might affect the visibility of mobile games, but the achievements of these titles suggest that mobile gaming's influence is undeniable. For those interested in diving deeper into the world of mobile gaming, consider tuning into the latest episode of the Pocket Gamer Podcast, where the hosts discuss the latest trends and developments in the industry.