The 2025 categories are as follows:

Best Soundtrack 
Best Audio Design 
Best Game Trailer
Best Game Expansion
Best Game Adaptation
Best Early Access Game
Best Indie Game
Best Indie Game - Self Published
Best Multiplayer Game
Best Lead Performer
Best Supporting Performer
Best Storytelling
Best Visual Design
Best Gaming Hardware
Most Wanted Game
Still Playing Award - Mobile 
Still Playing Award - Console & PC 
Studio of the Year
Console Game of the Year
 PC Game of the Year 
*Ultimate Game of the Year
 

*Ultimate Game of the Year voting takes place in a separate window. The shortlist will be revealed on Monday, 3rd November, with voting running from 3rd - 7th November, allowing you time to play more of 2025's big winter releases.

Additional Awards 

The Golden Joystick Awards 2025 will feature additional awards where shortlists are chosen by our expert panel of critics and creators, including:
  • Streamers' Choice Award
  • Breakthrough Award
  • Critics’ Choice Award