The gaming year is slowly coming to an end — and as we move toward its final stretch, two major shows will close it out: the Golden Joystick Awards in November, followed by the Game Awards in December.
While many players associate the latter with flashy world premieres and new trailers, the Golden Joysticks carry a different kind of legacy. Established in 1983, they are widely considered the world’s longest-running video game awards, decided by public vote and focused on recognizing creative achievement across the industry.
This year, 007: First Light has earned a nomination in one of the headline categories: “Most Wanted Game”.
Strong Competition in the “Most Wanted” Category
This year’s “Most Wanted Game” lineup brings together some of the most ambitious projects and high-profile studios in the industry — from long-awaited sequels to bold new IPs that promise to define the next generation of gaming. It’s a category that reflects both creative diversity and the sheer scale of what’s to come in 2026 and beyond.
- Grand Theft Auto VI
- Light No Fire
- OD – Knock
- The Blood of Dawnwalker
- Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet
- Marvel’s Wolverine
- Black Myth: Zhong Kui
- Hell Let Loose: Vietnam
- Kingdom Hearts 4
- Onimusha: Way of the Sword
- Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy
- LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight
- Subnautica 2
- SAROS
- Crimson Desert
- Exodus
- The Witcher 4
- Resident Evil Requiem
- The Expanse: Osiris Reborn
How to Vote
Public voting for the Golden Joystick Awards 2025 is open until October 31, across 21 categories including Best Storytelling, Best Visual Design, and Studio of the Year. The Ultimate Game of the Year vote will open separately from November 3–7, following the shortlist reveal.
Fans participate via the official website: Vote Here. You’ll progress through the ballot step by step — and we recommend voting in as many categories as you can. 007: First Light appears in the ballot’s final section under “Most Wanted Game”.
The Ceremony
The Golden Joystick Awards 2025 will be held in London on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 8 Northumberland Avenue. The physical ceremony will welcome nominees and industry guests, and the event will be live-streamed worldwide for viewers at home.
Regarding 007: First Light, keep expectations measured for new content during this show — the Golden Joysticks rarely feature major reveals. If IO Interactive shares something fresh this season, the Game Awards in December would be the more likely stage.
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