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At its core, the VGA functions as a two-hour infomercial for major gaming titles. While the show’s presenters and attendees emphasize honoring the gaming industry, many see this recognition as overshadowed by the promotional focus. As a viewer described it, these awards feel less like a celebration and more like a "giant cutscene" for games that often don’t deliver on their previews, highlighting a growing frustration within the player base.
The event's host, popularly dubbed the “Doritos Pope,” has been credited with maintaining a spotlight on video games and streamers, but there remains a palpable disconnect between the awards' intent and audience expectations. Casual observers aired their grievances about how transformative trailers fail to capture the essence of gameplay.