Dive into the exciting world of gaming with the 2026 DICE Awards! This year's ceremony, held at the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences in Las Vegas, celebrated the best in interactive entertainment. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 took home the top prize, Game of the Year, along with four other awards, solidifying its critical acclaim and standing out at award shows since its release in April 2025. But what makes this game truly special? Let's explore the winners and the impact of the late Vince Zampella, who was honored at the event.
The Big Winners
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 dominated the night, claiming five awards across 23 categories. Its success is no surprise, given its critical acclaim and the French Order of Arts and Letters recognition for its development team. Ghost of Yotei also shined, taking home three awards, including Outstanding Achievement in Character. Arc Raiders secured the Online Game of the Year title, while Naughty Dog's Evan Wells was inducted into the AIAS Hall of Fame.
The Impact of Vince Zampella
The DICE Awards also served as a tribute to Vince Zampella, the co-creator of the Call of Duty franchise and co-founder of Infinity Ward and Respawn Entertainment. His passing in December 2025 was marked by heartfelt speeches from industry luminaries like Hideo Kojima, Phil Spencer, and Todd Howard, who reflected on his impact on the video game industry and their personal lives.
The Full List of Winners
Here's the complete list of winners, showcasing the diverse range of talent and creativity in the gaming industry:
- Outstanding Achievement in Animation - South of Midnight
- Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
- Outstanding Achievement in Character - Ghost of Yōtei – Atsu
- Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition - Ghost of Yōtei
- Outstanding Achievement in Audio Design - Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
- Outstanding Achievement in Story - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
- Outstanding Technical Achievement - Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
- Action Game of the Year - Hades II
- Adventure Game of the Year - Ghost of Yōtei
- Family Game of the Year - LEGO® Party!
- Fighting Game of the Year - Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection
- Racing Game of the Year - Mario Kart World
- Role-Playing Game of the Year - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
- Sports Game of the Year - Rematch
- Strategy/Simulation Game of the Year - The Alters
- Online Game of the Year - Arc Raiders
- Immersive Reality Technical Achievement - Hotel Infinity
- Immersive Reality Game of the Year - Ghost Town
- Outstanding Achievement for an Independent Game - Blue Prince
- Mobile Game of the Year - Persona5: The Phantom X
- Outstanding Achievement in Game Design - Blue Prince
- Outstanding Achievement in Game Direction - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
- Game of the Year - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
So, what do you think? Who are your favorite developers or games of the year? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below!
