Xbox Game Studios' South of Midnight has emerged as a standout title at the 2026 Canadian Game Awards (CGA), taking home a remarkable six awards, including the coveted Game of the Year. This accolade underscores the game’s impact following its launch on Series X|S and PC in April 2025.
The success of South of Midnight at the CGA highlights the exceptional work of Compulsion Games, the studio behind the title. Along with Game of the Year, the team was honored with the Studio of the Year award, reflecting the industry’s appreciation for their innovative approach and commitment to quality.
In a competitive field featuring notable titles like Assassin's Creed Shadows, which won Best in Accessibility, and Battlefield 6, recognized as Best PC Game, South of Midnight distinguished itself. Other winners included Hell is Us, awarded for Best Game Design, showcasing the diverse genres and gameplay styles celebrated at the event.
The acclaim for South of Midnight extends beyond awards; it also received a positive reception from critics, including a solid 9/10 rating from Pure Xbox. This critical success, combined with its awards, positions the title as a must-play for both Xbox enthusiasts and newcomers. Its unique blend of storytelling and gameplay mechanics resonated well with players and judges alike.
As the gaming community continues to respond positively to South of Midnight, it will be intriguing to see how this success influences the future of Compulsion Games and the broader Xbox Game Studios portfolio. With the gaming industry evolving and new titles on the horizon, South of Midnight sets a high bar for quality and innovation, likely inspiring both established and emerging developers.
With its impressive haul at the CGA, South of Midnight reinforces Xbox's commitment to delivering compelling gaming experiences while signaling a strong ongoing presence in the competitive gaming arena as new consoles, such as the PS5 and the recently launched Switch 2, vie for attention. The awards remind gamers of the diverse and rich offerings available today, where creativity and excellence can lead to significant recognition and success.
Quick answers
What awards did *South of Midnight* win?
South of Midnight won six awards at the CGA, including Game of the Year.
When was *South of Midnight* released?
South of Midnight launched in April 2025 for Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Who developed *South of Midnight*?
The game was developed by Compulsion Games.
How did it compare to other games at the CGA?
It outperformed other notable titles, securing multiple awards including Studio of the Year for Compulsion Games.
About the author
MJI Desk
MJI Desk covers consumer tech for MJI News.
