GDCA 2027 moves away from nominations-based system, publishers and devs can now submit games for consideration
The Game Developers Choice Awards (GDCA) is transitioning to an open submission system for its 2027 edition, marking a significant departure from its traditional nomination-based approach. Publishers and developers can now directly submit games for consideration, rather than relying on an invitation-only nomination process.
Games released on PC or console between January 1 and December 31, 2026, qualify for submission. The submission process carries no entry fees, with submissions due by November 1, 2026.
Historically, the GDCA operated through the International Choice Awards Network (ICAN), an invitation-only voting panel comprising over 500 industry members, creators, and developers. The shift to open submissions fundamentally changes how games are selected for awards consideration, potentially broadening the range of eligible titles and increasing accessibility for smaller publishers and independent developers.
Two new award categories are being introduced for the 2027 edition.