The Game Awards 2024, which celebrates its tenth anniversary, once again attracted the attention of millions of gamers worldwide. Among the many presented games, colorful trailers, and loud announcements was the award for the best VR/AR game of the year - a rapidly developing category that opens up unique opportunities for players. But who was this year's winner and why was this particular game recognized?

With each passing year, virtual and augmented reality technologies are becoming an increasingly important part of the video game industry. They transport players to entirely new worlds, creating immersive experiences that are impossible in traditional games. That's why the VR/AR category of The Game Awards is of particular interest, as it highlights the achievements of developers in this rapidly growing segment.

The history of the awards and the importance of the VR/AR genre

The Game Awards, founded in 2014, has become one of the premier platforms for recognizing outstanding achievements in the gaming industry. The VR/AR category was only added a few years ago but has already become an important part of the ceremony. Projects like Beat Saber and Half-Life: Alyx have proven in previous years that VR/AR is not just an experimental genre but a full-fledged part of the industry that can offer something unique.

This category is particularly eye-catching in 2024 as developers continue to push the boundaries of what's possible. This year's nomination includes five projects, each offering players a very different take on using virtual reality technology.

2024 Nominees

Nominated for the award for best VR/AR game of the year were:

• Arizona Sunshine Remake (Vertigo Games) - an updated version of the iconic VR shooter that offers an even more realistic immersion into the zombie apocalypse world.
• Asgard's Wrath 2 (Sanzaru Games/Oculus Studios) - an epic adventure set in Scandinavian mythology with an open world and large-scale battles. 
• Batman: Arkham Shadow (Camouflaj/Oculus Studios) - a new look at the legendary Dark Knight, allowing players to feel themselves in the skin of Bruce Wayne.
• Metal: Hellsinger VR (Lab 42/The Outsiders/Funcom) - a musical shooter in virtual reality, where players fight demons to the rhythm of metal tracks.
• Metro Awakening (Vertigo Games) - a dark journey through post-apocalyptic Moscow, created especially for VR.

The winner in this category was Batman: Arkham Shadow from developers Camouflaj/Oculus Studios

Why did Batman: Arkham Shadow win in this category?

The game allowed fans to fully immerse themselves in the role of Bruce Wayne, combining intense combat scenes with an atmospheric detective investigation. The unique motion-tracking technology made controlling the character as realistic as possible.

The award for the best VR/AR game of the year is not only a recognition of developers' technical prowess and creativity but also an indicator of where the entire industry is heading. Each of 2024's nominees demonstrates a unique approach to utilizing VR/AR technology, from cinematic storytelling to innovative interaction mechanics. The winner of this category will not just reflect current trends, but will possibly define the genre's future.