Golden Joystick Awards 2026: Voting Open in 21 Categories

Voting for the 44th Golden Joystick Awards is officially open: organizers have revealed the nominees across 21 categories, and anyone can cast a vote to shape the outcome. It's the world's longest-running publicly voted gaming award, where players—not critics—decide the winners.

What the award is and why it matters

The Golden Joystick Awards has been running since 1983 and is one of the most recognized honors in gaming. This year, voting covers 21 categories, from Best Console Game and Best PC Game to Most Wanted. Winners will be revealed on November 11 at a ceremony in London, streamed globally.

Voting deadlines

Voting closes on October 23 at 4:00 PM PT — that's October 24, 7:00 AM Moscow time. Don't miss your chance: public votes directly determine who takes home the trophy.

How to vote

Voting takes place on the official awards website. Simply pick your favorites in the available categories. No special account or paid subscription is required — just an internet connection and a desire to support your favorite game.

What it means for gamers

For players who enjoy international titles, events like this are a good reminder: many games and in-game purchases require payment in currencies other than the ruble. Virtual cards can help with subscriptions and purchases in foreign stores, including gaming platforms.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.