The Escapist Wins Webbies

With its characteristic grace, style and Viking-like ice-blooded ruthlessness, The Escapist has captured its Webby Awards.

The Escapist was nominated in April under the category of Game-Related Website, and was eligible to win two prizes: The Webby Award, chosen by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and the People's Voice Award, selected by popular vote. Despite facing fierce competition from noteworthy websites Gamasutra, Gamezebo, Wired.com's GameLife Blog and RockBand.com, The Escapist completed the sweep, capturing both awards.

"We're absolutely ecstatic both the committee and the community chose to award us with both Webby awards," said Escapist Associate Editor Joe Blancato. "Amid such tough competition, it's both humbling and gratifying to learn we won."

The Webby Awards, established in 1996, recognize excellence in the online arena across a diverse range of nearly 70 categories, including Activism, Fashion, Consumer Electronics, Music, Podcasts and Youth. The complete list of winners, who will be formally recognized at the 12th Annual Webby Awards Ceremony from June 8-10 in New York City, is available here.