How the Global Gaming Awards EMEA 2026 are decided
The Global Gaming Awards stand as the most credible, respected, and sought-after accolades in the gaming industry. It’s a bold statement, but one we’re proud to uphold through an impartial and transparent process. Here’s how it all unfolds.
1. Self-Nominations
Gaming companies with operations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa put themselves forward via the official nomination form on our website. This is their opportunity to showcase their achievements across the region over the past 12-18 months.
2. Review of Nominations
Every entry undergoes a meticulous review by the Global Gaming Awards & Global Gaming Insider teams. To ensure a fair and balanced shortlist, we also consult independent industry advisors and respected experts who provide additional recommendations.
3. Shortlist Decided
Each category is refined to 10 shortlisted nominees, while the Executive of the Year category highlights 25 exceptional leaders. To ensure impartiality, companies may only appear once per category – meaning groups with multiple brands can have just one represented in any given category.
4. Supporting Statements
Shortlisted companies are invited to submit concise supporting statements detailing why they deserve to take home the trophy. The supporting statements, together with the reasons for nomination are then passed on to the Judging Panel.
5. Judging
A distinguished panel of senior industry executives is invited to cast their votes. Only one executive per company may serve as a judge, and votes are placed for both a winner and a runner-up in categories where no conflicts of interest exist.
6. Voting Adjudication
Integrity is paramount. KPMG US acts as the independent adjudicator for the Awards, ensuring judges can’t vote in categories where they have a conflict of interest.
7. Shortlist Publication
One month before the ceremony, we release the official Global Gaming Awards EMEA Shortlist Magazine, available in both print and digital editions. The magazine not only lists all shortlisted companies and individuals but also explains the rationale behind each nomination - a level of transparency unmatched in the industry.
8. Awards Ceremony
The winners are unveiled at an exclusive ceremony at the end of Day 1 of ICE, a highlight event that celebrates innovation, leadership and success across the gaming world.