Hold onto your controllers, folks! The illustrious BAFTA has decided to shake things up and has introduced the longlist for the 2026 BAFTA Games Awards. Yes, 64 games have successfully made it through the magical portal of judgment (aka deliberation) and are now in the running for the glittery trophies.
Voting Shenanigans Ahead
In a thrilling turn of events, BAFTA members (who are basically the game industry’s version of the Academy, but with a cooler wardrobe) will engage in an epic voting battle in February 2026. This prestigious vote focuses specifically on the Best Game and British Game categories. Meanwhile, a select group of the gaming elite—specialist juries—will tackle the other categories. Who knew voting could feel like a scene from a dystopian movie?
Noms and Winners, Oh My!
Mark the calendars, because March 12 is the big day for announcing nominations. That’s right, fans will finally find out which games get to bask in the glory of potential red carpet action. Block those April 17 dates too, as that’s when winners will shamelessly strut around at the 2026 BAFTA Games Awards. Publicists, prepare your best lines for the interviews!
Spill the Beans, Tara!
The wise words of Tara Saunders, chair of the famed Games committee, should be taken seriously. She proclaimed, “The BAFTA Games Awards longlists offer a fantastic opportunity to spotlight the creativity and craft shaping this year’s games, ahead of nominations on 12 March.” Oh, Tara, who could ever doubt such poetic musings?
Tara continues to wax lyrical about how this list acknowledges the “breadth of remarkable work recognized by our wonderful BAFTA games members.” Apparently, there are 1,700 industry professionals out there who are not only experts but also brimming with passion. One could liken them to the superheroes of the gaming universe—capable of crafting digital worlds while simultaneously fighting off boredom.
Diving Into the List
For anyone wondering which delightful titles are buzzing around in the longlist for the Best Game award, stay tuned. With 64 longlisted games vying for not just glory, but also the prestigious BAFTA nomination across 17 competitive categories, it’s impossible not to feel a twinge of excitement. The question on everyone’s mind is: just how much caffeine did those judges consume?
Games Ahoy!
So, what’s the scoop on these 64 games? Buckle up, because they are not just pixels on a screen; they represent the pinnacle of creativity and innovation within the industry. Each title boasts a team that has poured every ounce of skill into creating something that deserves recognition. It’s all about shining a light on the intricate art of game-making, which, as one can imagine, is a lot harder than it looks while munching on snacks in a gaming chair.
In conclusion, the anticipation is palpable for both players and developers alike as they eagerly await the reveal of nominations next March. With enough buzz and banter to fill a multiplayer lobby, the excitement is real. So raise those controllers high and join the countdown—because after all, it’s not just about winning; it’s about bragging rights!
