A developer behind Megabonk says the game is pulling out of The Game Awards after being nominated for Best Debut Indie.
After a successful release in September 2025, Megabonk was announced as a Best Debut Indie nominee on November 17 as part of the full 2025 lineup revealed by The Game Awards.
One day later, the creator told fans the nomination wasn’t appropriate based on his past work. The game had been included in a category meant to highlight first-time indie releases.
Developer says Megabonk does not qualify for Debut Indie
“I’m withdrawing from The Game Awards,” he said in a post. “It’s an honor and a dream for Megabonk to be nominated for TGA, but unfortunately, I don’t think it qualifies for the category ‘Debut Indie Game.’
“I’ve made games in the past under different studio names, so Megabonk is not my debut game. I really appreciate the nomination, support, and votes, but it doesn’t feel right in this category. You should vote for another one of the amazing debut titles, they are all amazing games!”
All Best Debut Indie Nominations
Alongside Megabonk’s nomination were the following games:
- Blue Prince
- Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
- Despelote
- Dispatch
The Game Awards has not commented on the withdrawal or whether the category will receive an updated ballot.
