Game developers have four new ways to snag bragging rights and shiny trophies from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts in 2012.

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts has worked to recognize and reward studios and developers in their efforts to push artistic and technological achievements since 2003. In keeping up with the shifting interests and growth of the industry, the Academy has made four new categories to acknowledge the best first efforts of a new studio (The Freshman Award) and finest display of acting through motion-capture, voice acting, or another way that brings the real world to our thumbs (Performer). The Best Multiplayer award has grown to include new awards recognizing the best Online Multiplayer and Best Browser games released in the past year, acknowledging the growing diversity in the field.

The Academy went on record to say that they were adding these categories not only to bring attention to smaller developers and risk takers, but that they were looking to further their efforts of comparing video game companies with the same respect that others reserve for film or television. The nominees will be reveled one month prior to the actual show on March 12, 2012. This year’s winners included Heavy Rain, Mass Effect, Cut The Rope and God of War III while giving a special nod to Fable mastermind Peter Molyneux.

Start your wild speculations as to who the nominees will be in the forums!

Tags: Awards, BAFTA, industry, video games