To qualify for the Business Game category, the entrant game should be built for a Business or military audience, including the game learning objectives, themes, story, and overall play. Examples include but are not limited to corporate training, general education, general health/healthcare and wellness, public interest, etc. Funders and developers of the game can be private or government entities.

The Innovation Award aims to recognize innovation in serious games. For purposes of the Challenge, innovation is defined as a characteristic or technique that enhances the serious game in a new, novel, or different way. Innovation can be accomplished through hardware integration, instructional design, game design, content topic, or a combination thereof. The Innovation Award will be judged by and awarded at the sole discretion of the Challenge Innovation Committee.

The Digital Wargame Award celebrates the most exceptional digital wargame that masterfully blends strategic complexity, immersive gameplay, and innovative design. This award recognizes a game that offers players a deeply engaging experience, whether it’s simulating historical conflicts, futuristic scenarios, or entirely fictional strategic challenges. The winning game excels in delivering a rich, tactical experience that captivates and challenges players in the digital realm.

All games will be eligible for the People’s Choice Award, regardless of developer or audience. All Finalist Entries are showcased on the Conference exhibit floor. Games can be evaluated and voted on by all DSET in-person attendees for the People’s Choice award up until the close of the Exhibit Hall Floor, the day prior to Awards Ceremony (see DSET schedule for date and time). The People’s Choice Award will be awarded at the sole discretion of the Challenge People’s Choice Committee.

This is the overall winner of SGSCE, which will also be automatically entered as a finalist into the SGS&C USA in Orlando at I/ITSEC.