adminGDCA 2027 introduces a new way for games to be considered: publishers and developers can submit eligible titles directly, rather than relying solely on the awards’ previous nominations-based process. Games must have launched on PC or console during 2026, and submissions are required for consideration.
Image credit: Game Developers Choice Awards
GDCA 2027 submission rules and deadline
Games released between January 1 and December 31, 2026, on PC or console are eligible to be submitted. There is no entry fee, and the deadline for submissions is November 1, 2026.
Developers and publishers planning to submit a game should check that its release date and platform meet the stated criteria, and allow time to complete the submission before the deadline. A game’s eligibility does not automatically place it under consideration: it must be submitted.
How the awards process is changing
In previous years, the Game Developers Choice Awards used a nomination-based voting system involving the International Choice Awards Network (ICAN). This invitation-only panel includes more than 500 creators, developers, and other members of the games industry.
The shift to submissions gives publishers and developers a direct route to put eligible releases forward. It also makes the deadline an important step for teams whose games might otherwise not enter the consideration process. The announcement does not change the requirement that a title must meet the release-window and platform criteria.
Two new GDCA award categories
The 2027 awards will add two categories: Best Game Launch and Best Gaming Tech. These join the existing awards program, although further category details were not included in the announcement.
Teams preparing a submission can keep these new categories in mind when reviewing the award information. They should rely on the official category descriptions for any specific requirements, rather than assume that a game or technology qualifies based on its release alone.
GDCA 2027 ceremony and GDC Festival updates
Winners are set to be announced at the 2027 GDCA ceremony on Tuesday, March 2, during GDC Festival of Gaming. The festival has also announced changes for 2027, including a new Business Hall at Moscone West, three new passes, dedicated options for indie developers and start-ups, and a revised event schedule.
GDC vice president of content strategy Mark DeLoura has described the event changes as an effort to offer attendees more ways to participate and make it easier to build connections and achieve their goals during the week.
What to remember
- Eligible release period: January 1 to December 31, 2026.
- Platforms: PC or console.
- Submission deadline: November 1, 2026.
- Entry fee: None.
- New categories: Best Game Launch and Best Gaming Tech.
- Ceremony: Tuesday, March 2, 2027, at GDC Festival of Gaming.
For studios and publishers, the main practical change is clear: eligible games need to be submitted by the deadline to be considered for GDCA 2027. Checking the release window, platform, and submission requirements early can help teams avoid missing the opportunity.
