The Game Awards is evolving into a major annual event for the gaming community, but its rising costs and complex ticketing make it tough for many developers to join the celebration. As the show gains both popularity and notoriety, developers are questioning who truly gets to attend.
Behind the Cost of Trailers and Sponsorships
The financial stakes of the Game Awards are climbing. This year, a 60-second trailer can set studios back as much as $450,000. Big franchises aim for jaw-dropping reveals, making the stakes even higher for developers. Generally, ad sales help offset production fees, but since the awards primarily stream without commercials, they rely heavily on trailer spots and sponsorships.
Ticketing for Nominees and Fans
Getting into the Game Awards isn’t as straightforward for nominees as it might seem. Typically, only two tickets are free for nominated studios, leaving some teams scrambling to buy additional tickets—even as prices soar. These tickets can range from $58 to over $1,000, depending on the seating.
- Free tickets for nominees are limited
- Developers buy seats to join the celebration
Filling the Seats and Fans’ Involvement
To ensure that the event maintains an energetic atmosphere, seat fillers are also invited. This offers an opportunity for fans to engage with the show, ensuring it feels lively and vibrant for viewers online. However, this raises questions about whether the event honors the people creating the games or prioritizes fan engagement.
Overall, while the Game Awards aims to honor gaming excellence, the barriers to participation—especially for smaller and indie studios—pose significant challenges.
