Whether playing on mobile or a browser, using augmented reality or social media, games expand our knowledge, make our commutes bearable, and can even transform an average workday into a live-trivia frenzy.

The Webby Awards is thrilled to celebrate Games as a dedicated category this year. Check out a few Nominees in our new suite of Games categories below. Then go see all the Nominees and vote for your favorites in Webby People’s Voice until Thursday, April 19th.

Jump to:

• Best Art Direction
• Strategy/Simulation
• Best Use of Augmented Reality

BEST ART DIRECTION

Sometimes the most entertaining games are also the most beautiful. These Nominees in Best Art Direction use cutting-edge illustration and design to teleport players to scenes crawling with 1930s-themed villains, dangerous frozen tundras, puzzles nested in magical castles, or a dark mansion filled with an enemy that studies you.

• Cuphead by StudioMDHR Entertainment Inc.
• ECHO by Ultra Ultra
• The Long Dark by Hinterland Studio Inc.
• Monument Valley 2 by ustwo games
• What Remains of Edith Finch by Annapurna Interactive

STRATEGY/SIMULATION

How many gamers does it take to produce the most paperclips using artificial intelligence? These Strategy/Simulation Nominees, featuring work from Blizzard Entertainment to EA Mobile, bring strategic thinking to a new level.

• Universal Paper Clips by Everybody House Games
• The Simpsons: Tapped Out by The Simpsons – Gracie Films, Electronic Arts
• The Long Dark by Hinterland Studio Inc.
• Hearthstone by Blizzard Entertainment
• Life is Strange: Before the Storm by Square Enix

BEST USE OF AUGMENTED REALITY

Catching Pokemon, fighting alongside Jedis, or hitting a home run amidst cheering fans… the possibilities for enhanced gameplay are endless with these Nominees for Best Use of Augmented Reality.

• Star Wars: Jedi Challenges by Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media
• Archer, P.I. App by FX Networks
• Earth 7 – The Space Rover Destined for Earth by ISD Group / KA.KA.HA
• MLB Home Run Derby VR by MLB

We are so proud to honor this inaugural class of Games Nominees. From the biggest names in gaming to indie developers, these Webby Nominees are using gorgeous graphics, advanced game theory, and sensory manipulation to shape the future of gameplay.

Be sure to help your favorite games win a Webby People’s Voice Award. Head to the voting site now to vote for your favorite games and much more: vote.webbyawards.com