Golden Lance Best Developer Category
Games are nothing without the people behind them. In this time of uncertainty surrounding the ethical usage of AI, it has become increasingly critical to celebrate and acknowledge that the games we love aren’t made by a nameless corporate structure. They are made by people. Sometimes a single person, and sometimes thousands. They are made by artists and writers and programmers and managers. They are made by people with thoughts and feelings and passions and ideas far beyond what just exists on a credit scroll. In this time of joy and blessing at the end of the year, I want to beseech you all. Tell your favorite creators that you love their work. That it makes a difference in your life. Small acts of kindness like that can go a long way.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all. With that said, here are the winners of Lords of Gaming’s 2025 Golden Lance Award for Best Developer.
Winner – Obsidian Entertainment
Obsidian (aka Black Rock) is Xbox’s most productive studio, delivering three releases in a single year. Avowed, a new IP built on the Pillars of Eternity foundation, has some flaws, but it is encouraging to see continued support for the franchise. By shifting the original Pillars formula into an action-oriented style, Avowed offers casual audiences a modern entry point into that universe, and rumors suggest a sequel is already in development.
The announcement of Grounded 2 at the Xbox Showcase was a pleasant surprise. It has become Obsidian’s most successful IP regarding sales and engagement after the first game significantly overperformed. By incorporating player feedback, they have launched Grounded 2 into Early Access with a solid foundation. It remains a unique Honey, I Shrunk the Kids survival experience driven by a strong narrative.
The Outer Worlds 2 looks fantastic, and lowering the price from $80 was the right move, as the game didn’t warrant Microsoft’s recent price hike. OW2 improves upon Avowed’s lighter choice-and-consequence mechanics by returning to the deep RPG systems and compelling companions that define Obsidian’s heritage. The “flaw system” remains one of the best gameplay mechanics in recent years, making this a true return to form. They are easily the standout studio under Xbox. With Tim Cain returning for a secret project—which he confirmed isn’t New Vegas 2, sparking KOTOR 2 rumors—their future looks bright, especially with hints that they may finally re-introduce romance mechanics.
Ultimately, Obsidian knows their identity. They are a “AA” studio that stays on budget while successfully managing multiple projects. They serve as a model for other Xbox Game Studios by maintaining agility and staying within their scope. Rather than attempting over-ambitious, 100-hour open worlds, they focus on consistent, successful delivery within their limits.
Developer of the Year Runner Up – Sandfall Interactive
What Sandfall Interactive accomplished is nothing short of a miracle. A group of ex-Ubisoft developers taking on a passion project and turning it into one of the most celebrated games of the year is no small feat. It is filled with risk and trepidation, but with a critical and commercial payoff that will set the foundation for Sandfall for the future.
Though the video game industry is shifting into unknown territories, good games will always break through and be celebrated. Expedition 33 is a reminder that passion seeps through the work and players will recognize it and celebrate it. Well done to Sandfall Interactive for attaining the runner-up position for Best Developer of 2025.
