Golden Joystick Awards 2026: Resident Evil Requiem Takes Top Honors, Crimson Desert Crowned PC Game of the Year!
The gaming world recently turned its gaze towards one of its most venerable institutions: the Golden Joystick Awards. Now in their 44th year, these awards stand as a testament to the enduring passion for video games, celebrating the best and brightest titles that have captivated players worldwide. While the name might harken back to a bygone era of arcade cabinets and early home consoles, the spirit of innovation and community voting remains as vibrant as ever.
The 2026 ceremony, watched by millions across the globe, delivered some truly exciting results. From epic narratives to groundbreaking multiplayer experiences, the winners reflect the diverse and ever-evolving landscape of our favorite pastime. So, let’s dive into the big wins and see which games stole the show!
Resident Evil Requiem: The Ultimate Champion
Taking home the most coveted prize of the night, the Ultimate Game of the Year, was none other than Capcom’s chilling masterpiece, Resident Evil Requiem. This latest installment in the iconic horror franchise clearly left a deep impression on voters and critics alike, earning a staggering 92% score in one prominent review.
It seems the game truly delivered on its promise of frights and thrills. As one reviewer aptly put it,
“feels like you’re playing a highlight reel of the best moments in the series.”
Beyond the ultimate title, Resident Evil Requiem also secured victories in several other major categories, solidifying its status as a critical and popular success.
- Ultimate Game of the Year
- Console Game of the Year
- Best Game Trailer for “Evil Has Always Had a Name”
- Best Lead Performer for Angela Sant’Albano’s portrayal of Grace Ashcroft
Crimson Desert Claims PC Game of the Year
While Resident Evil Requiem dominated the overall category, PC gamers had their own champion to celebrate: Crimson Desert. This ambitious title was awarded PC Game of the Year, a significant win for a game that blends vast open-world exploration with intense action. Despite also being available on consoles, its PC version clearly resonated strongly with the voting public.
Crimson Desert, which garnered an admirable 80% review score, is a game that divides opinion with its sheer scale and intricate design. One critic described it as
“Vast and obtuse in a way that is going to frustrate some and exhilarate others. A fascinating journey, even when the destination isn’t all that.”
This award highlights the unique experiences that PC gaming continues to offer, pushing boundaries in scope and ambition.
Indie Surprises and Returning Favorites
The Golden Joystick Awards also shone a spotlight on some incredible indie talent and celebrated beloved franchises. The multiplayer hide-and-seek sensation, Meccha Chameleon, emerged as a major success story, bagging an impressive four awards, showcasing its broad appeal across different segments of the gaming community.
- Best Multiplayer Game
- Best Indie Game – Self-Published
- Streamer’s Choice Award
- Developers’ Choice Award
Other notable winners included Dispatch, which was recognized for its compelling Best Storytelling and immersive Best Soundtrack. The enduring legacy of The Witcher series also made its mark, with The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered winning Best Remake/Remaster, and the highly anticipated The Witcher 4 clinching the Most Wanted Game award, proving that Geralt’s world still holds a powerful grip on our imaginations.
A Complete Rundown of Key Winners
The full list of winners spanned a wide range of categories, acknowledging excellence in every facet of game development and player experience:
- Best Storytelling: Dispatch
- Best Audio Design: Onimusha: Way of the Sword
- Best Visual Design: Control: Resonant
- Best Game Expansion: Doom: The Dark Ages – Revelations
- Best Indie Game: Valheim
- Best Gaming Hardware: Steam Controller
- Studio of the Year: Capcom
- Best Early Access Game: Subnautica 2
- Still Playing Award – PC & Console: Minecraft
- Critics’ Choice Award: Big Walk
- Best Game Adaptation: Iron Lung
- Best Supporting Performer: Grace Saif (Pragmata)
The 44th Golden Joystick Awards once again highlighted the incredible talent and creativity within the gaming industry. From the terrifying triumphs of Resident Evil Requiem to the expansive worlds of Crimson Desert and the surprising joy of Meccha Chameleon, these awards offer a glimpse into the games that defined the year and those we eagerly await. It’s a truly exciting time to be a gamer, with such a diverse array of experiences being recognized and celebrated.
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