BEST DEBUT

RUNNER-UP THE FORGOTTEN CITY

Developer Modern Storyteller Publisher Dear Villagers Format PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series Its roots as a Skyrim mod occasionally show through in this otherwise gripping time-loop mystery, but The Forgotten City is an impressive calling card for Modern Storyteller. Strong writing and characterisation invest you in this ill-fated city and its inhabitants, in a detective story that reserves its richest rewards for the most thorough of investigators.

RUNNER-UP EXO ONE

Developer Exbleative Publisher Future Friends Games Format PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series Jay Weston’s science-fiction voyage – an arthouse Tiny Wings in 3D, if you will – only narrowly missed out in the Best Visual and Audio Design categories. But then this is a game of fine margins, as you time your craft’s swoops and climbs to sustain its momentum. By turns relaxing and exhilarating, it’s an enveloping sensory experience.

WINNER WILDERMYTH

Developer/publisher Worldwalker Games Format PC The story of Wildermyth’s development would fit perfectly among the kind of tales the game spins. A family that grew into a small team, a six-year labour of love, and a happy ending: one of the year’s finest games and enough financial success that Worldwalker has said “we’re now confident our studio has a future”. We can’t wait to hear what happens next.