Astro Bot dominates the BAFTA Games Awards 2025 in a night of celebrations, tributes, and unexpected surprises

It was under the spotlight of London, last Tuesday, April 8, that the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) promoted the long-awaited 21st edition of the BAFTA Games Awards, recognizing the biggest highlights of the gaming universe. The big star of the night was Astro Bot, which won five awards, including the coveted award for Best Game of the year.

Despite strong competition from titles like Helldivers 2, Black Myth: Wukong, and Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, it was the adorable robot from Sony who stole the show, also winning in the categories of Animation, Audio, Family, and Game Design.

But Astro Bot didn't shine alone. The atmospheric and intense Still Wakes the Deep was the second most awarded title of the night, taking three important awards: New Intellectual Property, Best Leading Role Performance with Alec Newman, and Best Supporting Role Performance with Karen Dunbar. The game also appeared in several other categories, consolidating its critical relevance.

Among the main awards, two special recognitions touched the audience: the legendary title Shenmue was acclaimed as the Most Influential Game of All Time, while composer Yoko Shimomura (of Kingdom Hearts) received The Fellowship 2025, the highest honor from the Academy.

"We always knew Astro Bot was special, but to see this recognition in so many categories shows how well it was built in all aspects," commented one of the developers from Team Asobi, during the ceremony's backstage.

Among the other highlights of the night, Helldivers 2 won for Best Multiplayer and Music, while Thank Goodness You're Here! won the award for Best British Game. The award-winning Balatro, indie darling, secured the victory as Best Debut Game.

Check out the complete list of winners (in bold):

Best Game: Astro Bot

Animation: Astro Bot

Artistic Achievement: Neva

Audio Achievement: Astro Bot

British Game: Thank Goodness You're Here!

Debut Game: Balatro

Evolving Game: Vampire Survivors

Family: Astro Bot

Game Beyond Entertainment: Tales of Kenzera: ZAU

Game Design: Astro Bot

Multiplayer: Helldivers 2

Music: Helldivers 2

Narrative: Still Wakes the Deep

New Intellectual Property: Still Wakes the Deep

Leading Performance: Alec Newman (Still Wakes the Deep)

Supporting Performance: Karen Dunbar (Still Wakes the Deep)

Technical Achievement: Senua's Saga: Hellblade II

Special Awards:

The Fellowship 2025: Yoko Shimomura

Most Influential Game of All Time: Shenmue

The BAFTA Games Awards 2025 once again was a stage for recognition of the talent, innovation, and passion that drive the gaming industry. Among blockbusters, indies, and historical tributes, the event proved that the gaming universe is more alive, creative, and relevant than ever. Let's see what 2026 has in store.