The GDCA 2027 is transitioning from a nominations-based approach, allowing publishers and developers to directly submit games for evaluation

For the first time, publishers and developers can now submit their games for the 2027 Game Developers Choice Awards (GDCA).

To qualify, games must have been released on either PC or console within the year of 2026. Submissions are required, and you can submit your titles here.

No entry fees are required for GDCA 2027, and submissions close on November 1, 2026.

Historically, the GDCA utilized the International Choice Awards Network (ICAN) for its nomination process, a select group comprising over 500 individuals from the gaming industry.

This year, the awards have added two new categories: Best Game Launch and Best Gaming Tech.

Awards will be presented during the 2027 GDCA event on Tuesday, March 2, as a part of the GDC Festival of Gaming.

At the start of the year, the GDC Festival of Gaming revealed enhancements for 2027, including a new Business Hall located at Moscone West.

These enhancements involve the introduction of three new pass types, specific options for indie developers and emerging companies, and a revised timetable for events.

GDC VP of content strategy, Mark DeLoura, mentioned to GamesIndustry.biz, "GDC 2027 is structured to give participants more flexibility in their engagement with the event, improving how the event aligns with industry usage." He continued, "These updates aim to make the event more inclusive and to facilitate meaningful networking and fulfill participants' objectives at GDC."