Animal Well Wins Best Direction at 28th DICE Awards: A Triumph for Indie Games on Nintendo Switch

Animal Well, the atmospheric puzzle-platformer published by Playstack, took home the prestigious 'Outstanding Achievement in Game Direction' at the 28th annual DICE Awards ceremony, held recently in Las Vegas.

As the gaming industry’s leading annual peer-juried awards event, the DICE Awards have come to symbolize the highest honors in interactive entertainment and reflect both innovation and excellence across multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch. While Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Astro Bot ultimately swept the ceremony—including the coveted 'Game of the Year' and four additional accolades—indie titles still managed to make a significant mark.

Switch players have been quick to embrace both Balatro and Animal Well, two independent releases that showcased creativity and smart design throughout 2024 and into 2025. Balatro, developed by LocalThunk and widely praised for its inventive gameplay, earned three awards: 'Strategy/Simulation Game of the Year,' 'Outstanding Achievement for an Independent Game,' and 'Mobile Game of the Year.' Animal Well's recognition for 'Outstanding Achievement in Game Direction' highlighted its innovative approach to level design, environmental storytelling, and unique visual style, earning praise from critics and the DICE panel alike. Nintendo’s own contenders, including Super Mario Party Jamboree and The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, were nominated in categories such as 'Family Game of the Year' and 'Adventure Game of the Year' but faced stiff competition.

In the end, Astro Bot won family honors over Mario, while Indiana Jones and the Great Circle triumphed in the adventure category. The complete list of winners demonstrates a broad appreciation for creative excellence across genres and platforms.

HEELDIVERS 2, TEKKEN 8, and F1® 24 were among notable winners in categories from action to racing and fighting.

Notably, the lifetime contribution of Nintendo of America veteran Don James was also celebrated; with over four decades at Nintendo before his retirement in 2024, James was credited for his leadership across multiple divisions as executive vice president of operations. The DICE Awards’ recognition of indie titles available on Nintendo Switch, especially Animal Well and Balatro, underscores the platform’s strong reputation as a hub for creative and original games.

With Animal Well’s win in game direction, Playstack and the Nintendo Switch platform continue to demonstrate how independent developers can set new standards for quality and innovation. For the full list of winners and more information on the DICE Awards, visit the official interactive.org website.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Animal Well Balatro DICE Awards Indie Games