Whatever you think of Starfield, it’s hard to deny that Bethesda‘s newest IP in 25 years has at least been a talking point. Evidently, it’s left some impact on the gaming world, as it’s made the nominations list over on Steam.
Not Game of the Year, though
Looking on the Steam Awards 2023 page, you can see which titles are up for their respective categories. While Starfield hasn’t been nominated for Game of the Year or Outstanding Visual Style, it’s in with a chance of winning the Most Innovative Gameplay award.
The category is described thus:
The designers of this game are at the front lines of creative experimentation, bringing a fresh perspective and brain-breaking surprises. This game delighted, inspired and entertained with newness never played before.
Bethesda’s latest release is up against the likes of Remnant 2, Shadows of Doubt, and Contraband Police. Voting opens on December 21 and will close on January 2, 2024, at 10 a.m. PT.
It’s up to you to decide whether Starfield is considered “innovative.” While it’s not really a bad game, many felt it was lacking, and some have been unable to see it as a release with a lot of longevity. It certainly doesn’t seem like it’ll have the staying power of something like Skyrim, but Bethesda will continue to improve its space-faring RPG.
As for what’s listed under Game of the Year, we can see Baldur’s Gate 3, Hogwarts Legacy, Resident Evil 4, and FC24 are up for the award. It’s also nice to see Lethal Company in the running. Considering it only came out in October and it’s an indie title, it’s been a phenomenal success, besting even some AAA releases.
It’s perhaps not too surprising that Starfield hasn’t been nominated for much at the Steam Awards. But it may get to walk home with at least one prize this year.