The Indie Game Awards 2025 shook up the community this weekend. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, originally named Game of the Year and Debut Game, has been disqualified due to the use of generative AI in development.

The announcement came from Six One Indie on Saturday. They said the game was submitted under the promise that no gen AI was used. However, Sandfall Interactive later confirmed AI involvement, which violates the awards’ rules.

Runner-ups take the spotlight

“The Indie Game Awards have a hard stance on the use of gen AI,” the organisers stated. They thanked the community for their patience and support, promising an even bigger show in 2026.

With the disqualification, runner-ups have taken the top spots. Sorry We’re Closed now wins Debut Game, while Blue Prince claims Game of the Year.

Judges, including Mike Straw, had praised Clair Obscur in their ballots, showing just how tough the competition was this year. Despite the change, the ceremony celebrated dozens of incredible games, developers, and teams.

The indie scene moves fast, and this ruling is a clear message: transparency is key, and AI use can’t be hidden.

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