The Steam Awards is an annual event that celebrates the best games on the Steam platform. One of the most coveted awards is the “Most Innovative Gameplay” category, which recognizes games that introduce unique and groundbreaking gameplay mechanics. In this article, we will explore the winners of this prestigious award and what makes their gameplay so innovative. From first-person shooters to puzzle games, the winners of the Most Innovative Gameplay category are sure to inspire and delight gamers of all types. So let’s dive in and discover the games that have taken home this coveted prize!
A Look Back at the Steam Awards
Introduction to the Steam Awards
The Steam Awards is an annual event held by Valve Corporation to recognize and celebrate the best games on the Steam platform. The awards were first introduced in 2015 and have since become a highly anticipated event in the gaming industry. The Steam Awards serves as a platform for gamers, developers, and publishers to come together and recognize the most outstanding games of the year.
The Steam Awards has gained significant importance in the gaming industry due to its unique approach to recognizing games. Unlike other award ceremonies, the Steam Awards focuses on the games that have been enjoyed by the largest number of players on the Steam platform. This makes the awards highly democratic and representative of the gaming community’s collective opinion.
Categories and Criteria
The Steam Awards features a range of categories that cover different aspects of gaming, including gameplay, storytelling, graphics, and more. Some of the most popular categories include “Best Game,” “Best Game DLC,” “Best VR Game,” and “Most Innovative Gameplay.”
The criteria for each category are based on the specific attributes that make a game outstanding in that category. For example, the criteria for “Best Game” may include the game’s overall quality, replayability, and impact on the gaming industry. The criteria for “Most Innovative Gameplay” may include the game’s unique mechanics, innovative use of technology, and overall player experience.
The Steam Awards has become a highly anticipated event in the gaming industry, with millions of players and developers tuning in to see which games will be recognized for their outstanding achievements.
The Innovative Gameplay Category
Overview of the Innovative Gameplay Category
The Innovative Gameplay Category is one of the most highly anticipated categories at the Steam Awards. This category recognizes games that have demonstrated a unique and innovative approach to gameplay, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the gaming world.
The Innovative Gameplay Category is highly important as it encourages developers to think outside the box and come up with new and exciting ways to engage players. It also helps to showcase games that may have been overlooked due to their unconventional gameplay mechanics.
Past winners of the Innovative Gameplay Category have included games such as Portal, Dark Souls, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. These games have all made significant contributions to the gaming industry by introducing new and innovative gameplay mechanics that have since been emulated by other developers.
2021 Winner: Returnal
The 2021 winner of the Innovative Gameplay Category was Returnal, a third-person shooter developed by Housemarque. Returnal is known for its unique blend of fast-paced action and roguelike elements, making it a standout title in the genre.
In Returnal, players take on the role of Selene, a space pilot who crash-lands on a mysterious planet. As she explores the planet, she must fight her way through hordes of alien creatures using a variety of weapons and abilities.
One of the most innovative aspects of Returnal’s gameplay is its roguelike elements. Each time Selene dies, she is transported back to the beginning of the game, but with the ability to carry over some of her previously earned weapons and upgrades. This creates a sense of progression and encourages players to continue pushing forward, even in the face of failure.
Returnal also features a unique “bullet-time” mechanic that allows players to slow down time and dodge incoming attacks. This mechanic adds an extra layer of strategy to the game’s already intense combat system.
Overall, Returnal was widely praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics, with many critics and players alike hailing it as a standout title in the action genre. Its unique blend of fast-paced action and roguelike elements has set a new standard for the genre and has inspired other developers to push the boundaries of what is possible in video games.
Returnal’s Story and Setting
Unique storytelling elements in Returnal
Returnal is a game that stands out for its unique storytelling elements. One of the most notable aspects of the game is its interactive storytelling techniques. The game uses a variety of methods to engage the player in the story, such as in-game cinematics, audio logs, and environmental storytelling. This allows the player to piece together the story of the game as they progress through the levels, creating a more immersive experience.
The story of Returnal also has a significant impact on the gameplay. The player takes on the role of a space pilot named Selene, who is on a mission to find out what happened to her crew. As the player progresses through the game, they uncover a larger plot that ties into the setting and characters of the game. This creates a sense of urgency and drives the player to continue playing, as they want to find out what happens next in the story.
Atmospheric and immersive setting of Returnal
In addition to its unique storytelling elements, Returnal also stands out for its atmospheric and immersive setting. The game’s setting is a planet called Atropos, which is filled with ancient ruins and strange creatures. The game uses a variety of audio and visual elements to create an atmosphere of mystery and danger.
The use of audio in Returnal is particularly effective in creating an immersive experience. The game features a haunting soundtrack that helps to build tension and create a sense of unease. The sound effects in the game, such as the screeching of the creatures and the sound of the player’s weapon, also add to the immersion.
The visuals in Returnal are also impressive, with a distinct art style that helps to create a unique atmosphere. The game’s use of lighting and shadow creates a sense of depth and helps to emphasize the mysterious and dangerous nature of the planet. The character models and enemy designs are also unique and help to create a sense of otherworldliness.
Overall, the combination of unique storytelling elements and an atmospheric and immersive setting make Returnal a standout game in the Innovative Gameplay category of the Steam Awards.
Returnal’s Combat System
Returnal’s combat system was recognized for its innovative gameplay, and for good reason. The game features a unique blend of fast-paced action and strategic decision-making, making it a standout in the genre.
Innovative combat mechanics in Returnal
One of the key innovations in Returnal’s combat system is the use of weapon upgrades and customization. Players can collect resources throughout the game to upgrade their weapons, allowing them to unlock new abilities and increase their effectiveness in combat. This adds a layer of strategy to the game, as players must carefully consider which upgrades to prioritize based on their playstyle and the challenges they are facing.
Another innovative aspect of Returnal’s combat system is the variety of enemy types and tactics. Each enemy presents a unique challenge, with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Some enemies are heavily armored and require careful targeting, while others are fast and agile, requiring quick reflexes to defeat. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, as players must constantly adapt to new challenges.
Dynamic and challenging enemies in Returnal
The enemies in Returnal are not just static obstacles; they are dynamic and challenging opponents that require careful strategy to defeat. Each enemy has its own set of tactics and behaviors, making them feel like living, breathing opponents rather than mere obstacles. For example, some enemies will retreat and regroup if they are heavily damaged, forcing players to pursue them and finish them off before they can recover.
The variety of enemy types and tactics also contributes to the overall gameplay experience. Players must constantly adapt to new challenges and develop new strategies to overcome them. This keeps the gameplay feeling fresh and engaging, even as players progress through the game.
Overall, Returnal’s combat system is a shining example of innovative gameplay. Its use of weapon upgrades and customization, variety of enemy types and tactics, and dynamic enemies all contribute to a engaging and challenging experience that keeps players coming back for more.
Returnal’s Progression System
Role of progression in Returnal
Progression plays a vital role in the game design of Returnal. It not only helps in creating a sense of accomplishment and growth for the player but also serves as a driving force for the game’s narrative. The way the game progresses and evolves with the player’s actions has a significant impact on the overall gameplay experience.
Progression in Returnal is designed to be challenging yet rewarding. As the player progresses through the game, they will encounter new enemies, abilities, and weapons, which will help them overcome obstacles and challenges. This creates a sense of accomplishment and motivation for the player to continue playing and exploring the game world.
Moreover, the progression system in Returnal is closely tied to the game’s narrative. The story unfolds as the player progresses through the game, and the player’s actions have a direct impact on the story’s outcome. This creates a sense of immersion and investment in the game world, making the player feel like they are part of the story.
Unique progression mechanics in Returnal
Returnal’s progression system is unique in several ways. One of the most innovative mechanics is the use of randomized levels and enemies. Each time the player plays through a level, the layout and enemies are randomly generated, creating a new and exciting experience every time. This adds a layer of replayability to the game, as players can keep playing through levels to experience different challenges and scenarios.
Another unique aspect of Returnal’s progression system is the impact of progression on replayability. The game’s progression system is designed to be non-linear, allowing players to explore different paths and make different choices. This creates a sense of replayability, as players can try different strategies and approaches to overcome challenges and defeat bosses.
Overall, Returnal’s progression system is a crucial aspect of the game’s design, adding depth and complexity to the gameplay experience. The innovative mechanics and non-linear progression create a sense of immersion and investment in the game world, making players want to keep playing and exploring.
Other Innovative Gameplay Winners
The Innovative Gameplay category at the Steam Awards has recognized a diverse range of games that have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in video game design. Here is an overview of some of the past winners of this category:
Among Us
- Among Us was the first-ever winner of the Innovative Gameplay category at the Steam Awards in 2019. This multiplayer game challenges players to complete tasks and identify the impostor among them. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics involve the use of social deduction, which requires players to constantly question each other’s motives and actions.
Rogue Legacy
- In 2014, Rogue Legacy won the Innovative Gameplay category at the Steam Awards. This game is a roguelike platformer that features procedurally generated levels and permadeath. However, the game’s innovative twist is that each time the player dies, their character’s offspring takes up the mantle, inheriting both their traits and their previous progress. This adds a unique layer of replayability and legacy building to the game.
Factorio
- Factorio won the Innovative Gameplay category in 2020. This game is a factory-building simulation game that challenges players to manage resources and build increasingly complex production lines. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics involve a deep, interlocking system of resource management, production, and logistics, which allows players to create intricate, self-sustaining factories.
Gris
- In 2018, Gris won the Innovative Gameplay category at the Steam Awards. This game is a metroidvania-style platformer that tells the story of a young girl dealing with the loss of her loved one. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics involve a unique art style that combines hand-drawn animation with a fluid, expressive movement system. The game also features a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that enhances the emotional impact of the story.
Slime Rancher
- Slime Rancher won the Innovative Gameplay category in 2017. This game is a life simulation game that challenges players to manage a ranch and raise slimes. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics involve a unique, colorful art style and a charming cast of characters. The game also features a deep, procedurally generated world that allows players to explore and discover new secrets.
These are just a few examples of the many innovative games that have won the Innovative Gameplay category at the Steam Awards. Each of these games has made a significant contribution to the world of video game design, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring new ideas and creativity.
2020 Winner: Death Stranding
Death Stranding, developed by Kojima Productions, was awarded the Most Innovative Gameplay award at the 2020 Steam Awards. The game is a unique blend of science fiction, action, and simulation genres, with a compelling storyline that follows the journey of a delivery man in a post-apocalyptic world.
Unique elements of Death Stranding’s gameplay
One of the most innovative aspects of Death Stranding’s gameplay is its use of physics-based mechanics. Players must carefully plan their route and manage their cargo as they navigate through treacherous terrain, avoiding obstacles and hazards along the way. The game’s realistic physics engine adds an extra layer of challenge and realism to the gameplay, making every delivery a nail-biting experience.
Another unique element of Death Stranding’s gameplay is the impact of the game’s theme on the gameplay itself. The game’s world is haunted by mysterious creatures known as “Beached Things” (BTs), which are the spirits of the dead. Players must use a variety of tools and weapons to fend off these creatures and protect their cargo. The game’s theme of connection and unity is also reflected in the gameplay, as players must work together with other characters to build bridges and infrastructure, and make deliveries to isolated settlements.
Overall, Death Stranding’s innovative gameplay combines physics-based mechanics, haunting themes, and a unique blend of genres to create a truly immersive and unforgettable gaming experience.
2019 Winner: Apex Legends
Innovative aspects of Apex Legends’ gameplay
- Introduction of new game modes and mechanics: Apex Legends introduced a new take on the battle royale genre by incorporating team-based gameplay. Instead of a solo survival mode, players are grouped into teams of three, which adds a new layer of strategy and coordination to the game. Additionally, the game features a variety of game modes, including a unique “Arena” mode that challenges teams to eliminate each other in a confined space.
- Impact of the game’s design on the battle royale genre: Apex Legends has had a significant impact on the battle royale genre since its release. Its innovative approach to team-based gameplay has been widely imitated by other games in the genre, and its character-based gameplay has added a new level of depth and complexity to the genre. Furthermore, the game’s emphasis on tactical gameplay and strategic decision-making has set a new standard for battle royale games, and has made it a popular choice among players who are looking for a more thoughtful and tactical experience.
2018 Winner: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Breath of the Wild’s revolutionary gameplay design
- Open-world exploration and puzzle-solving: One of the most groundbreaking aspects of Breath of the Wild is its open-world design, which allows players to explore the game’s vast landscape freely. This freedom is coupled with challenging puzzles that require players to think creatively and use their environment to progress. The game’s open-world design encourages experimentation and discovery, making it a truly immersive experience.
- Impact of the game’s design on the Zelda series: Breath of the Wild’s innovative gameplay has had a significant impact on the Zelda series as a whole. Future Zelda games have incorporated elements of Breath of the Wild’s design, such as open-world exploration and puzzle-solving, to create even more immersive and engaging experiences. The game’s influence can also be seen in other games across the industry, as developers look to incorporate similar elements into their own games. Overall, Breath of the Wild’s gameplay has had a profound impact on the gaming industry and has set a new standard for open-world adventure games.
FAQs
1. What is the Steam Awards?
The Steam Awards is an annual event held by Valve Corporation to recognize and celebrate the best games on the Steam platform. The awards cover a range of categories, including gameplay, storytelling, and graphics, among others.
2. How are the winners of the Steam Awards chosen?
The winners of the Steam Awards are chosen through a combination of user votes and a panel of expert judges. Users can nominate and vote for their favorite games in each category, while the judges provide their own recommendations based on their expertise and experience in the gaming industry.
3. What is the Most Innovative Gameplay category?
The Most Innovative Gameplay category recognizes games that introduce new and unique gameplay mechanics or features that significantly enhance the gaming experience. This category celebrates creativity and innovation in game design, and is one of the most highly anticipated awards of the Steam Awards.
4. Which games have won the Most Innovative Gameplay category in the past?
Some of the games that have won the Most Innovative Gameplay category in the past include:
* Portal 2 (2011)
* Dishonored (2012)
* The Talos Principle (2014)
* Her Story (2015)
* Inside (2016)
* What Remains of Edith Finch (2017)
* Return of the Obra Dinn (2018)
* Death Stranding (2019)
* Spelunky 2 (2020)
5. Who were the winners of the Most Innovative Gameplay category in the most recent Steam Awards?
The winners of the Most Innovative Gameplay category in the most recent Steam Awards were:
* LittleBigPlanet 3 (2014)
* The Swapper (2014)
* The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth (2015)
* The Witness (2016)
* Dead Cells (2018)
* Risk of Rain 2 (2020)
These games were recognized for their unique and innovative gameplay mechanics, which set them apart from other games in the industry.