The awards were arranged by the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (AIAS), and were held at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on February 28, 2002 (2002-02-28).
It was hosted by stand-up comedian Patton Oswalt, and featured presenters included Cliff Bleszinski, Richard Garriott, Richard Hilleman, Don James, American McGee, Lorne Lanning, Sid Meier, Shigeru Miyamoto, Ray Muzyka, Natalie Raitano, Lucia Rijker, Jason Rubin, Jez San, George Sanger, and Steve Schirripa.
Halo: Combat Evolved won the most awards, including "Game of the Year", and was tied with Ico for having the most nominations.
Will Wright, the creator of SimCity and The Sims, was inducted into the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame.
Winners are listed first, highlighted in boldface, and indicated with a double dagger (‡).