Indie Game Awards disqualify Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 after undisclosed use of generative AI
The post-ceremony reversal has reignited debate over ethics, transparency, and how far generative AI should be allowed in indie game development.
What began as a celebration of one of indie gaming’s biggest breakout hits has turned into a defining moment for the industry’s stance on generative AI.
When the Indie Game Awards aired on December 18, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 dominated the night, winning both Game of the Year and Debut Game. Days later, that victory was reversed. Six One Indie, the collective behind the awards, disqualified the game after confirming that generative AI tools were used during development despite prior assurances to the contrary.
With a strict no–gen AI policy baked into the awards process, Six One Indie said the decision while difficult was unavoidable. The announcement came after voting had closed and the show had already been recorded, adding to the awkwardness and backlash surrounding the reversal.
Emmanuel Umahi
As a result, the awards were reassigned. Game of the Year now goes to Blue Prince by Dogubomb, a game that had already been quietly earning praise for its inventive structure and design. Debut Game was awarded to Sorry We’re Closed by à la mode games, a cult favorite that blends survival horror aesthetics with emotional storytelling.
But the controversy around Clair Obscur shouldn’t overshadow what was, overall, a strong showing for independent games in 2025.
A Big Night for Indie Games Beyond the Headline
This year’s Indie Game Awards highlighted just how deep and diverse the indie space has become. Hosted by Six One Indie, the ceremony featured presenters like Celeste composer Lena Raine, Outerloop Games co-founder Chandana Ekanayake, and musician Chipzel a lineup that reflected the creative heart of the scene.
Several games walked away with major recognition. Peak by Team PEAK had a standout night, winning Achievement in Accessibility and Community Management, reinforcing how design choices and player engagement are becoming just as important as raw mechanics. and Roger by TearyHand Studio took home Emotional Impact, while BallxPit won Gameplay Design, beating out heavy hitters like Hades 2 and Hollow Knight: Silksong.
Music and narrative also had their moment. Rift of the NecroDancer won Music, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector earned Narrative, and 30 Birds claimed Visual Design. Regionally focused awards highlighted titles like The Drifter (ANZ Indie Game Award), Stick It To The Stickman (South African Indie Game Award), Artis Impact (Southeast Asian Indie Game Award), and Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo (Latin American Indie Award).
The show also introduced the Indie Vanguard Class, spotlighting five developers and teams pushing boundaries in meaningful ways, while industry honors went to figures like Maddy Thorson and organizations such as Game Devs of Colour for their broader impact on the ecosystem.
Emmanuel Umahi
The Takeaway
What makes this moment bigger than a single disqualification is what it signals about indie games right now.
For years, indie development has been framed as deeply human built on personal stories, limited resources, and creative risk. As generative AI tools creep further into production pipelines, that identity is being tested. The Indie Game Awards’ decision shows that some corners of the industry are ready to enforce clear ethical boundaries, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular.
At the same time, the depth of this year’s winners proves the indie scene doesn’t need shortcuts to thrive. From Blue Prince to Peak, from Citizen Sleeper 2 to Rift of the NecroDancer, the work being celebrated here is inventive, intentional, and unmistakably human.
The message is clear: talent still matters, transparency matters more, and how games are made is now just as important as how they play.
Emmanuel Umahi
