Mastering the Art of Speedrunning: From Casual Gamer to Legend

3 minutes Games24 Team

Have you ever watched a speedrun and thought, "How in the world do they do that?" Speedrunning, the art of completing a game as quickly as possible, has become an exhilarating phenomenon that's captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. From classic titles like "Super Mario Bros." to modern masterpieces like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild," speedrunners have pushed the boundaries of what's possible in gaming. Whether you're new to the speedrunning scene or considering diving in yourself, this guide will give you insight into this electrifying world. Buckle up, because it's about to get fast!

The Origins of Speedrunning

Speedrunning didn't just appear overnight; it has its roots deep in gaming history. In the early 1980s, arcade games like "Pac-Man" and "Donkey Kong" were the first to witness players striving for high scores in record times. However, it wasn't until the dawn of the internet and the rise of communities like Speed Demos Archive that speedrunning blossomed into the phenomenon it is today. As games evolved, so did the techniques speedrunners employed. Tricks and glitches discovered by the community have transformed many games, offering new paths and approaches that the original developers never intended.

Certain games have become beloved in the speedrunning community for their complex mechanics and potential for unique strategies. "Super Mario 64," for instance, is one of the most speedrun games thanks to its open-world design and myriad of movement options. Similarly, "Portal" challenges players to optimize physics and quick thinking to shave seconds off their time. Another favorite is "Dark Souls," which tests not only speed but precision and strategy. These games offer rich experiences both for runners and viewers, as every run can vary greatly depending on the runner's skill and the game’s quirks.

How to Get Started

Getting into speedrunning may seem daunting at first, but with the right mindset and a bit of practice, anyone can become a runner. Here are some steps to get you started:

  1. Choose Your Game: Start with a game you love and know well. Familiarity with the game’s mechanics will be immensely helpful.

  2. Learn from the Pros: Watch runs on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Analyze how experienced runners tackle the game.

  3. Use Resources: Websites like Speedrun.com offer comprehensive leaderboards and community forums where beginners can learn routes and tricks.

  4. Start Timing Yourself: Use tools like LiveSplit to record your runs. This helps to track your progress and identify areas for improvement.

  5. Be Patient: Speedrunning is about incremental improvements. Celebrate small victories and use setbacks as learning experiences.

The Community Aspect

What sets speedrunning apart from other gaming activities is its community. Runners are part of global networks where tips and tricks are freely shared. Events like Games Done Quick bring speedrunners together to showcase their skills and raise money for charity. These events unite thousands of viewers and demonstrate the impact of collaborative gaming.

Final Thoughts

Speedrunning is more than just a personal challenge; it’s a celebration of gaming innovation and community spirit. Whether you aim to break world records or just want to have fun, there's a place for everyone in the speedrunning world. So, dust off those controllers and start running your favorite game—it might just be the fastest you’ve ever done it!