The lights dimmed at The Carlu in downtown Toronto, casting a sophisticated glow over an assembly of the nation's most brilliant gaming minds. In a unique and memorable event, the Canadian Videogame Awards celebrated not just one, but two years of digital innovation, honoring the creative output from 2013 and 2014 in a single, grand ceremony. The evening was masterfully hosted by the charismatic Mark Meer, the iconic voice of Commander Shepard from the Mass Effect trilogy, whose wit and charm kept the energy high throughout the night. This marked a significant transition for the awards, making a historic coast-to-coast move from its previous home in Vancouver to the bustling heart of Toronto, symbolizing a new chapter for Canadian game development.
A Night of Double Honors and Notable Absences
Organizing an awards show for two years simultaneously was no small feat, beautifully orchestrated by producer Carl-Edwin Michel. The pace was brisk, thanks to a stellar lineup of presenters from EP Media, renowned Canadian developers, and beloved voice actors like Elias Toufexis, Jennifer Hale, Kate Drummond, and Roger Craig Smith. However, the dual-year format created an unusual shortlist. Due to nomination deadlines in mid-November 2014, several of that year's biggest blockbuster titles, all developed in Canadian studios, were conspicuously absent from the race. Critically acclaimed games such as Assassin's Creed Unity, Dragon Age: Inquisition, and Far Cry 4 were entirely ineligible. Furthermore, for reasons that remained unclear, Electronic Arts—a giant with a substantial mobile and sports game presence in Canada—had no titles among the initial nominations.
The Victorious Titles of 2013 and 2014
Despite the notable omissions, the ceremony was a powerful testament to the quality and diversity of Canadian game development. The awards were dominated by two standout titles from industry powerhouse Ubisoft, which has deep roots in Canada.
For the 2013 awards, the swashbuckling adventure Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag sailed away with the most accolades. Its immersive open world, compelling naval combat, and rich narrative captivated both players and critics, solidifying its place as a landmark title for the franchise and for Canadian development.
The 2014 honors were led by the enchanting and poetic Child of Light. This visually stunning RPG, crafted by a small team within Ubisoft Montreal, stood out for its beautiful art style, lyrical storytelling, and innovative turn-based combat. Its success was a heartwarming reminder that artistic vision and emotional depth could triumph on the grandest stages.
The Legacy and Broadcast of the Event
The ceremony was more than just handing out trophies; it was a gathering of a community. The event was successfully live-streamed on Twitch, allowing fans across the globe to partake in the celebration of Canadian talent. For those who missed the live event, the broadcast was scheduled to air on G4 Canada with multiple showings, ensuring wide accessibility. The evening underscored several key themes that remain relevant over a decade later:
-
Artistic Innovation: Titles like Child of Light proved that games could be profound works of art.
-
Technical Prowess: Blockbusters like Assassin's Creed IV showcased world-leading technical and design expertise.
-
Community Strength: The event highlighted the collaborative and supportive network of developers, actors, and media that forms the backbone of Canada's gaming industry.
Looking back from the perspective of 2026, the 2013-2014 Canadian Videogame Awards stand as a significant milestone. They captured a moment of transition and growth for the industry, celebrating both monumental AAA achievements and intimate indie gems. The move to Toronto signaled a broader national recognition, and the dual-year format, while logistically challenging, created a unique snapshot of a prolific period. The legacy of the winners continues to inspire, and the community spirit fostered that night remains a cornerstone of Canada's position as a global leader in interactive entertainment. The awards served as a powerful reminder that from coast to coast, Canadian creativity was—and continues to be—a formidable force in shaping the virtual worlds we love to explore.