Cyberpunk 2077 fans angered by ‘Shadow of the Erdtree’ GOTY nomination

Fans argue Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty was snubbed for GOTY after Elden Ring DLC gets nominated this year.

The Game Awards' Game of the Year (GOTY) nominations have sparked controversy, with Elden Ring's DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, receiving a nomination. 

Fans of Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty are expressing outrage, claiming the expansion deserved similar recognition in 2023. Phantom Liberty, despite its critical acclaim, was relegated to the "Best Ongoing Game" category last year, leaving supporters feeling overlooked.

The debate escalated after The Game Awards clarified that DLC, remasters, and remakes are eligible for GOTY. This revelation has led fans to question why Phantom Liberty was excluded, with many arguing it deserved a spot over titles like Super Mario Bros. Wonder. The uproar has even reignited debates over past omissions, such as The Witcher 3: Blood & Wine in 2016 and Final Fantasy 14 expansions like Shadowbringers.

While fans admit Phantom Liberty might not have won against heavyweights like Baldur’s Gate 3, they assert its exclusion reflects inconsistent criteria. The Game Awards has yet to respond to the backlash, but the inclusion of Shadow of the Erdtree has intensified discussions about what qualifies for top gaming honors.