The 2025 Game Awards saw fierce competition between leading titles, as several high-profile games vied for top honors. Among the most anticipated contenders, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 entered the event prepared for various outcomes, even humorously planning different meme responses based on the results. However, it was Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 that surprised attendees and viewers by dominating all the categories in which both games were nominated, including Best RPG, Best Narrative, and the prestigious Game of the Year award. The results left Warhorse Studios, developers of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, without a trophy but not without wit. Their social media platforms reflected an upbeat attitude, as they shared custom memes tailored for their loss and engaged in lighthearted banter with the winning team. This approach highlighted the camaraderie that can exist even in highly competitive industries, blending humor with the reality of not taking home an award.
Previously, major industry awards often recognized more established franchises, and surprise sweeps were rare. Games like Baldur’s Gate 3 have set benchmarks in recent years, yet Expedition 33’s performance marked a new trend by securing multiple major wins. Unlike some past ceremonies where disappointed parties showed visible frustration, Warhorse Studios’ humorous reactions stood out, reflecting a changing tone in public interactions following such outcomes. The social engagement around this year’s event seemed more playful, amplifying the human element behind the productions beyond just the competitive streak.
How Did Warhorse Studios React to the Loss?
Warhorse Studios managed the defeat with humor and grace. Immediately after the results, their social media team posted a lighthearted meme referencing a dialogue option from the first Kingdom Come game, congratulating the winning team.
ggwp @expedition33 😉
The company’s readiness to respond with humor showed a resilient spirit, turning what could have been a disappointing night into a chance for community engagement and levity.
What Was the Response from the Warhorse Development Team?
Communications director Tobias Stolz-Zwilling took to his personal account to voice his reaction, playfully claiming,
We have officially been robbed!
Sharing a candid photo of the team alongside both their own developers and members of the Expedition 33 team, he emphasized that the atmosphere remained friendly. By framing the award loss as an opportunity for camaraderie, Warhorse reinforced positive relationships within the gaming community, rather than focusing on rivalry.
Could the Outcome Impact Future Industry Relations?
Despite traveling to Los Angeles in hopes of returning triumphant, the Warhorse team left empty-handed but not disheartened. Post-ceremony photos showing staff from both studios celebrating together reinforced a collegial environment. The event also underscored strong competition, with several highly lauded games competing for awards, but the exchanges between the developers of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 illustrated a spirit of mutual respect.
Although Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 missed out on awards this year, its creative approach and the developers’ attitude resonated with many observers. The dominance shown by Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, capturing major categories such as Best RPG, Best Narrative, and Game of the Year, marks a notable moment that could shape voter expectations for future nominations. Public and industry reactions reflect a growing emphasis on both artistic achievement and community. For those following award ceremonies closely, these interactions offer valuable insight: preparation for diverse outcomes, authentic responses, and visible mutual respect can define a brand’s lasting image, regardless of immediate success. In an industry where recognition fluctuates, how developers navigate wins and losses can build stronger, more supportive communities around their games.
