The Role of Next-Gen Consoles in Shaping Game Award Winners

14 November 2025

Gaming has never stood still. It’s constantly evolving with the beat of faster tech, bolder creativity, and jaw-dropping visuals. At the heart of this evolution lies next-gen consoles—those high-powered machines that not only redefine how we play but also influence which games rise to the top. But how exactly do consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X shape which games win awards?

That’s what we’re diving into today. Buckle up, grab your controller, and let’s break it down.

What Are Next-Gen Consoles?

Let’s start with the basics.

Next-gen consoles are the latest generation of home gaming systems, currently represented by Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X|S. These are not just newer versions of the old hardware—they’re total evolutions. Think of it like jumping from a bicycle to a jet engine.

These consoles come packed with features like:

- Ultra-fast SSDs (basically, zero loading screens)
- Ray tracing (hello, realistic lighting!)
- 4K gaming capabilities
- Faster frame rates (smooth like butter)
- Advanced AI and processing power

So, yeah, these aren’t just your regular gaming boxes. They’re performance beasts.

The Game Awards: Why They Matter

Before we dig further into the role of hardware, let’s talk about the Game Awards.

The Game Awards is basically the Oscars of the video game world. Held annually, it celebrates the best in game design, storytelling, music, innovation, and more. Winning a Game Award isn't just a shiny trophy—it's recognition from both fans and industry peers.

And here’s the twist: Next-gen consoles have become a game-changer (pun intended) in who wins those titles.

How Next-Gen Consoles Are Changing the Game (Literally)

1. Power = Possibilities

When developers design games for next-gen consoles, they’re no longer shackled by old hardware limitations. It’s kind of like trading in your go-kart for a Ferrari. Suddenly, you can go faster, tackle tighter corners, and do things you never imagined before.

Take games like Demon’s Souls (PS5 Remake) or Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. These titles weren’t just “pretty” – they showed off things only next-gen consoles could pull off. Instant loading between worlds, hyper-detailed environments, silky smooth frame rates. These elements didn’t just dazzle players—they impressed judges too.

Award juries love innovation. When a game pushes the medium, it doesn’t go unnoticed.

2. Enhanced Immersion = Better Storytelling

Games aren’t just about action anymore—they're modern storytelling tools. And immersion is a big part of how stories are felt. Imagine watching a movie on an old tube TV vs. a 4K home theater setup. It’s not even a fair fight.

Next-gen consoles crank up that immersion. With 3D spatial audio, ultra-realistic visuals, and controller haptics (yep, we're looking at you, DualSense), players are literally feeling more than ever before.

This matters for narrative-driven games. Take Returnal or The Last of Us Part I Remake—both used next-gen tech to make players truly feel the tension, emotion, and atmosphere. That connection? It often leads to more critical acclaim.

3. Innovation in Gameplay Mechanics

Ever heard someone say, “The gameplay just felt different?” That’s usually a good sign.

Next-gen consoles give developers new toys to play with: faster processing, AI improvements, and input latency so low, it’s like your brain is controlling the character in real-time.

These changes open doors for new gameplay types. Think of Deathloop and its time-loop mechanics or Ratchet & Clank’s interplanetary portals. It’s not just polish—it’s innovation. And innovation often means nominations.

4. Game Engine Advancements

Let’s not forget what’s under the hood. Unreal Engine 5 and other advanced engines are tailored for next-gen hardware. That means better world-building, smarter NPCs, and physics that make you do a double take.

Games that utilize these capabilities—like Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II—are poised to blow minds (and win awards) on the back of their technical brilliance. Critics and players alike appreciate when a game doesn’t just play well but feels groundbreaking.

Big Award Winners Influenced by Next-Gen

Let’s jump into a few examples of how next-gen performance has already shaped awards season.

1. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

This game was tailor-made for the PS5 and leveraged its SSD to create warp-speed transitions without a hint of loading time. That alone made it a technical marvel.

🏆 Nominated in multiple Game Awards categories, including Best Game Direction and Best Art Direction—it walked away with Best Action/Adventure.

Without next-gen hardware, this game wouldn’t exist in the form it does.

2. Returnal

With roguelike gameplay, cinematic storytelling, and hardcore combat, Returnal used the PS5’s power to create a haunting, immersive experience.

🎯 It won Best Action Game in 2021 and was praised for how it integrated haptics and adaptive triggers.

Another case where next-gen wasn’t just a bonus—it was essential.

3. Forza Horizon 5

Though also playable on Xbox One, the real magic of Forza Horizon 5 came alive on the Series X|S. The draw distance, lighting, and frame rates took it to another level.

🏁 It clinched Best Sports/Racing Game and even won Best Audio Design.

That kind of polish? Next-gen made it possible.

What About Indie Games?

Now, you’re probably thinking, “What about the little guys?” Good question.

Interestingly, next-gen has empowered indie developers too. With access to advanced dev kits, smaller studios can compete in terms of gameplay mechanics and visual fidelity.

Games like Kena: Bridge of Spirits were made by small teams but fully leveraged next-gen power. It won Best Indie Game in 2021 and was in the conversation solely because the hardware let it shine.

So next-gen doesn’t just help AAA blockbusters—it lifts up indies as well.

Accessibility Is Also a Winner

Another underrated benefit of next-gen consoles? Accessibility features.

We're seeing real strides here. Xbox’s Adaptive Controller paved the way, and now both PS5 and Series X|S support robust accessibility options—customized controls, enhanced subtitles, and even full audio navigation.

Games like The Last of Us Part I remake set new standards for accessibility and were rewarded for their efforts.

The point? Award shows are recognizing inclusivity more than ever, and next-gen consoles make it easier to include every type of player.

Cloud Gaming & Cross-Platform Performance

Okay, here’s a twist: Next-gen isn't only about better boxes—it’s about better experiences across the board.

With integrated cloud support (thanks, Xbox Cloud Gaming and PlayStation Now), devs are building for seamless transitions between console and mobile. Combine that with cross-platform play, and suddenly, a game’s reach is no longer limited.

More players = more feedback = higher popularity.

And guess what? Popular games (especially critically adored ones) tend to snag more nominations. It’s all connected.

The Future: What’s Coming Next?

Looking forward, next-gen consoles will continue to drive award-winning innovation. With AI tools, real-time ray tracing, and immersive VR experiences becoming mainstream, the next wave of winners might not even resemble today’s games.

And with titles like Starfield, Fable (Reboot), and Marvel’s Wolverine in development specifically for next-gen, it’s clear that we’re still in the early innings of this transformation.

Final Thoughts: Power Alone Isn’t Enough

Here’s the bottom line: Next-gen consoles provide the canvas, but the art still matters.

Yes, powerful hardware enables richer worlds, smoother gameplay, and deeper immersion. But it’s the creativity, risk-taking, and brilliance of the developers that turn potential into magic.

Think of consoles as the stage and developers as the performers. The better the stage, the more spectacular the show—but you still need talent to bring the house down.

So next time you're cheering for your favorite game at the Game Awards, remember: it probably had a little help from the hardware behind the scenes.