Devolver Digital is once again stirring things up with their latest creation, the Devolver Delayed Awards. This is a pre-recorded “awards” spectacle that humorously highlights three of their games now pushed to a 2025 release date.
Known for their signature wit, Devolver’s presentation was dripping with sarcasm, as they playfully commended their developers for having the “courage and determination to delay their games into the next fiscal year.” In the spotlight are some colorful categories, with equally imaginative (and entirely fictitious) nominees like:
– Best Inadvertent Tripping Simulator
– Best Late-Stage Capitalism Roguelite
– Best Glass Demon in a Leading Role
Besides these comical segments featuring make-believe games (and honestly, who wouldn’t try Windshield Repair Simulator?), the Devolver Delayed Awards included heartfelt speeches from developers whose actual projects have been postponed to 2025. Sam Eng from Skate Story, for example, has been dealing with a broken arm, so perhaps cut him some slack if you’ve been eagerly waiting for the game’s release.
If this feels like déjà vu, that’s because Devolver did something similar in 2023, spoofing the popular Nintendo Direct format. That year’s tongue-in-cheek Devolver Delayed Showcase gleefully announced pushbacks for titles such as The Plucky Squire, Stick It to the Stickman, Anger Foot, Pepper Grinder, and Skate Story.
Though these setbacks might sting from a business standpoint, it’s reassuring to see Devolver supporting developers by giving them the time needed to realize their creative visions, instead of rushing unfinished products to market for a hasty profit.
Meanwhile, Devolver Digital’s official site lists upcoming titles like Possessor(s), Tenjutsu, Human Fall Flat 2, and Forestrike, which are still awaiting official release dates.
