A few days before The Game Awards 2025, an unusual decision shakes the video game scene. Hollow Knight: Silksong, although in the running for the title of Game of the Year, will be conspicuous by its absence. His studio, Team Cherry, simply chose not to attend the ceremony.
In an interview with Bloomberg, William Pellen, co-founder of the studio, said: “Maybe not. We’re pretty busy.” A phrase thrown out in a casual tone, but which reflects a clearer reality: according to them, victory is already promised to someone else.
Expedition 33, big favorite in all categories
Australian developers believe their presence is not necessary. For them, the fate is already sealed: it is Expedition 33 which will leave with the ultimate trophy. William Pellen makes no secret of it: “This year, I think we are calm. I think Expedition 33 is exceptional and generally appreciated.”
The Sandfall Interactive title has won over critics and audiences since its release. More accessible, less punitive than Silksong, it ticks all the boxes for the general public and seems designed to seduce a jury.
Silksong, a divisive game that is not afraid of the shadows
Released on September 4, 2025 after years of waiting, Silksong has relaunched the Hollow Knight universe in an even more demanding style. If the gameplay and artistic direction were praised, the difficulty of the title left some players in the lurch.
Even Pellen agrees: “While Silksong is a tightrope, a game that pleases some and infuriates others.” A lucid admission, which contrasts with the often excessive ambitions of certain AAA studios.
A strategic choice or an admission of powerlessness?
Is this voluntary withdrawal from the Game Awards a calculation? Team Cherry seems to be sparing itself from a predicted disappointment, while capitalizing on its image as a free and atypical independent studio. Silksong has never kept pace with the market, and this posture will undoubtedly reinforce the cult aura of the game among its fanbase.
But some will see it as a leak. In a year dominated by blockbusters like Hades 2, Death Stranding 2 or Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, refusing confrontation can also seem like an admission of weakness. It remains to be seen whether the public will award another prize: that of the heart.