The end of the year is approaching, and Steam is officially kicking off one of its biggest annual community events. The 2025 Steam Awards nomination period is now live, giving players the chance to put forward their favorite games across 11 different categories. Whether you want to champion the year’s breakout hit, highlight an overlooked gem, or simply support a game you’ve sunk hundreds of hours into, nominations are open starting today.
Valve’s event runs through December 1, and anyone with a Steam account can participate. The categories cover everything from traditional Game of the Year picks to more playful options, ensuring that nearly every type of game has a place to shine.
Here are the categories open for nominations:
- Game of the Year Award
- VR Game of the Year Award
- Labor of Love Award
- Best Game on Steam Deck Award
- Better with Friends Award
- Outstanding Visual Style Award
- Most Innovative Gameplay Award
- Best Game You Suck At Award
- Best Soundtrack Award
- Outstanding Story-Rich Game Award
- Sit Back and Relax Award
Players who join the nomination process can also earn a 2025 Steam Awards badge, which levels up by completing tasks such as submitting nominations in all categories, playing a nominated game, or writing (or updating) a review.
Finalists chosen by community votes will be revealed starting December 18, leading into the official award announcements later in the month.
Which games are you planning to nominate this year? Tell us in the comments and don’t forget to follow VGNW and our X account for full coverage once the finalists are announced.
