Loading.. Loading.. Loading..
Scroll Down

Gem AwardsGem Awards

20262026

ABOUT GEM 2026

AboutAwardsAboutAwards

The GEM Awards celebrate excellence in the gaming, esports, and metaverse industries, recognizing the talent and innovation that drive these dynamic fields.

Launched by Animation Xpress, the awards honor groundbreaking achievements in game development, competitive esports, and more. With a focus on creativity, technological advancements, and social impact, the GEM Awards spotlight the pioneers shaping the future of digital entertainment and culture.
More Info

WhatMakesGEMAwardsSpecial?WhatMakesGEMAwardsSpecial?

Comprehensive Categories
Covering Gaming, Esports, Metaverse, Editorial Choice, and Fan Choice Awards, the GEM Awards celebrate the diversity and impact of these growing industries.
Industry Recognition
A platform to honor groundbreaking achievements in game development, esports performance, metaverse innovation, and beyond.
Networking Opportunities
Bringing together top industry leaders, creators, developers, and fans, the event fosters collaboration and inspires future growth.
Fan Engagement
Fan-driven awards categories ensure a strong connection between creators and their audiences, amplifying community participation.
Spotlighting Indian Talent
With a focus on India’s gaming and esports ecosystem, the GEM Awards highlight local talent and their contributions to the global stage.
Entries Open Now
Entries Open Now
Entries Open Now
Entries Open Now
categories 2026

CategoriesCategories

Rules & Regulations

EligibilityGuidelinesEligibilityGuidelines

General Eligibility
  • Release Date:
  • The game must have been officially released between 1st January 2025 and 31st January 2026.
  • Platform Eligibility:
  • Games developed for PC, Console, Mobile, AR/VR, or Cloud Platforms are eligible to participate.
  • Developer/Publisher:
  • Open to independent developers, game studios, and publishers.
  • Originality:
  • The game must be an original creation of the developer or studio. Entries must not infringe on any third-party intellectual property rights.
  • Completed Entry Form:
  • Participants must fill out all required fields in the submission form and provide accurate information.
  • Supporting Materials:
  • A gameplay trailer or video showcasing core features.
  • High-quality screenshots, promotional artwork, and any other relevant media assets.
  • A downloadable build or demo of the game for evaluation (if applicable).
  • Language:
  • The game should be available in English or include English subtitles/localization for international evaluation.
  • Best Student Develop Game: :
  • The game must be created by individuals or teams enrolled in an academic institution during the development period.
  • Proof of student status (e.g., institution ID, enrollment letter) must be submitted.
  • Indie Game of the Year:
  • The game must have been developed by an independent team or studio without substantial financial backing from a major publisher.
  • Best Game Promo:
  • The trailer must have been released within the eligible timeframe and represent a game not yet launched.
  • Best Upcoming Game Trailer:
  • Entries will be disqualified if they:
  • Contain offensive, explicit, or plagiarized content.
  • Violate copyright laws or third-party rights.
  • Do not meet submission deadlines or fail to provide required materials.
  • All entries will be evaluated by an expert jury panel based on creativity, innovation, gameplay, visuals, sound design, and category-specific criteria.
  • Shortlisted entries may be required to provide additional information or participate in an interview/demo session with the jury.
  • Release Date:
  • The game must have been officially released between 1st January 2025 and 31st January 2026.
  • Platform Eligibility:
  • Games developed for PC, Console, Mobile, AR/VR, or Cloud Platforms are eligible to participate.
  • Developer/Publisher:
  • Open to independent developers, game studios, and publishers.
  • Originality:
  • The game must be an original creation of the developer or studio. Entries must not infringe on any third-party intellectual property rights.
  • Completed Entry Form:
  • Participants must fill out all required fields in the submission form and provide accurate information.
  • Supporting Materials:
  • A gameplay trailer or video showcasing core features.
  • High-quality screenshots, promotional artwork, and any other relevant media assets.
  • A downloadable build or demo of the game for evaluation (if applicable).
  • Language:
  • The game should be available in English or include English subtitles/localization for international evaluation.
  • Best Student Develop Game: :
  • The game must be created by individuals or teams enrolled in an academic institution during the development period.
  • Proof of student status (e.g., institution ID, enrollment letter) must be submitted.
  • Indie Game of the Year:
  • The game must have been developed by an independent team or studio without substantial financial backing from a major publisher.
  • Best Game Promo:
  • The trailer must have been released within the eligible timeframe and represent a game not yet launched.
  • Best Upcoming Game Trailer:
  • Entries will be disqualified if they:
  • Contain offensive, explicit, or plagiarized content.
  • Violate copyright laws or third-party rights.
  • Do not meet submission deadlines or fail to provide required materials.
  • All entries will be evaluated by an expert jury panel based on creativity, innovation, gameplay, visuals, sound design, and category-specific criteria.
  • Shortlisted entries may be required to provide additional information or participate in an interview/demo session with the jury.
Connect with us

ContactUsContactUs

Awards Enquiry
  • Sanjanac@animationxpress.com
Partnership Enquiry
  • nehas@animationxpress.com
Submit Entries
Copyright © 2026 Gem Awards 2026

Best Casual Game
Celebrating games that provide light, fun, and easy-to-pick-up entertainment.

Best Hyper-Casual Game
Recognizing games with simple mechanics and high replayability.

PC/Console Game of the Year
Highlighting the best game designed for PC or consoles.

Mobile Game of the Year
Recognizing excellence in mobile gaming experiences

Best Student Game
Celebrating innovative games created by student developers or teams.

Indie Game of the Year
Recognizing exceptional creativity and innovation from independent developers.

Game of the Year
The ultimate recognition for the best overall gaming experience of 2025.

Best Art Direction
Celebrating the most visually stunning and creative art in a game.

Best Game Direction
Recognizing exceptional leadership and vision in game design and direction.

Best Game Trailer
Honoring the most exciting and well-produced game trailer.

This will close in 20 seconds