See the embedded tweet here

The Grand Game Awards has officially announced Shawn Layden as the honorary Godfather of its 4th Edition, scheduled to take place on December 17, 2026. An executive with a distinguished career in the video game industry, Layden brings decades of experience in strategic and leadership positions, having been involved in several stages of the sector's evolution. His appointment recognizes the contributions of a personality who has played a part in defining moments in gaming history, while reinforcing the event's international mission to celebrate the people who have helped shape the industry.

With more than three decades at Sony, Shawn Layden joined the company in 1987 and built a career marked by leadership responsibilities across different markets and divisions. His most notable positions include President of Sony Computer Entertainment Japan, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Sony Network Entertainment International, and President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, where he oversaw PlayStation's operations across the Americas. Perhaps his most recognized role was as Chairman of Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios, where he helped oversee the company's global first-party development strategy and the studios behind some of its most celebrated franchises.

Following his departure from Sony in 2019, Layden remained active in the industry through advisory and consulting positions. In 2022, he joined Tencent Games as a strategic advisor, further expanding his involvement in initiatives related to interactive entertainment. His experience across different areas of the market, including platforms, development, publishing and business management, has established him as a prominent figure in the industry and provides the foundation for this year's recognition.

The 4th Edition of the Grand Game Awards will be held under the theme "Dreaming and Aiming Always Higher," which highlights the importance of setting ambitious goals, exploring new possibilities and turning ideas into tangible achievements. The theme celebrates professionals and organizations that challenge expectations, push boundaries and strive to create new opportunities for the future of gaming. These principles also reflect Layden's career, during which he witnessed and contributed to several transformations in the market while advocating creativity, innovation and the importance of maintaining a forward looking vision for the industry's development.

The title of Godfather of the Grand Game Awards is an honorary distinction awarded to a single personality at each edition. It recognizes individuals whose careers, influence and contributions embody the values the organization seeks to highlight. Rather than being a competitive category or merely ceremonial position, it represents recognition of an individual's career and lasting legacy within the video game industry. Since the introduction of this distinction, the event has welcomed three remarkable personalities:

• Mohamed Hakim Soufi: Godfather of the 1st Edition (2023).
• Fawzi Mesmar: Godfather of the 2nd Edition (2024).
• Peter Moore: Godfather of the 3rd Edition (2025).

With Shawn Layden's appointment for the 4th Edition, the awards add another distinguished name to this list, continuing their commitment to recognizing professionals whose work has made a significant impact on the development of the industry.

As part of this distinction, Layden will also have the honor of officially opening the ceremony, becoming the first guest to address the audience during the event. On this occasion, he will deliver a special message to the international gaming community, sharing his experience and perspectives with the developers, publishers, industry professionals and players gathered for the celebration.

The ceremony is scheduled for December 17, 2026, when the Grand Game Awards will hold its fourth edition and continue its mission to recognize the creativity, dedication and ambition driving the video game industry forward. Originating in Algeria and reaching an international audience, the event aims to increase recognition for the professionals and organizations contributing to the growth and evolution of the industry.