I'm so pleased to see Larian's talent and hard work receive recognition. As for popularity vs. "something more, " I'm inclined to see it as something of a false distinction, as I suspect a sense of "something special" is baked into many votes.
I understand the need for "technical awards", sort of being judged by your peers. That has a place for sure. However popular or community votes are vital as well. Sure they may not reflect the technology but they do reflect the response from the gamers and in many ways that is more important.
At the end of the day, no matter how cool the tech, the only thing that makes a great game is if it is FUN for the players. If the players enjoy it, get engrossed into it. Without player interest even a great game, well quite frankly does not matter. So when I see people say a reward or accolade does not matter because it is a "popularity" contest, I think they do not really get gaming.
