The BAFTA Games Awards concluded last night, celebrating the achievements of the gaming industry with notable wins for games like Balatro and Vampire Survivors. While the event may not match the broad reach of Geoff Keighley's Game Awards, it arguably surpasses it in prestige, if not in spectacle. The absence of platform-specific categories, including mobile, at the BAFTAs since 2019 raises questions about the visibility of mobile games in such prestigious settings.

Balatro, a standout roguelike deckbuilder, clinched the Debut Game award. Its success has sparked a frenzy among publishers eager to find the next indie sensation. On the other hand, Vampire Survivors, which was crowned Best Game in 2023, took home the Best Evolving Game award this year, impressively outperforming titles like Diablo IV and Final Fantasy XIV Online.

No Mobile Category? The BAFTA Games Awards have opted out of platform-specific awards, a decision that was solidified in 2019. Despite the significant achievements of mobile and multiplatform games like Vampire Survivors and Genshin Impact, the awards' structure has remained unchanged.

In a past discussion, Luke Hebblethwaite from the BAFTAs game team shared that the organization believes games should be judged on their merit, regardless of the platform they're released on. This perspective allows games like Balatro and Vampire Survivors to gain recognition on a broader stage, thanks in part to their mobile availability.

While opinions on this approach may vary, the impact of mobile platforms on these games' reach cannot be understated. It's a form of recognition that, while not platform-specific, still highlights the quality and appeal of mobile gaming.

For more insights into mobile gaming and beyond, consider tuning into the latest episode of the Pocket Gamer Podcast, where I join Will to delve into the latest trends and discussions in the industry.