Mastering the Art of the Speedrun: A Gamer's Ultimate Guide

4 minutes Games24 Team

Speedrunning is not just a way to play games; it's an art form, an exhilarating thrill ride that captures the very essence of gaming mastery. It's about bending the time to your will and showcasing skill, creativity, and knowledge in ways that surprise and amaze even the game's creators. If you've ever marveled at a player darting through levels with seemingly superhuman precision, you've witnessed the magic of speedrunning. Today, we'll take you on a journey through the world of speedrunning, from its origins to becoming a speedrun maestro yourself!

A Brief History of Speedrunning

Speedrunning began in the early '90s with the rise of online communities, where gamers shared their fastest completion times. The allure of completing titles like "Doom" in record time captured imaginations and spawned a culture where gamers chased seconds like gold. As internet accessibility improved, so did sharing strategies, glitches, and records, propelling speedrunning from obscure hobby to mainstream sensation.

Events like Games Done Quick have shone a spotlight on this unique gaming pursuit, inviting gamers from around the world to watch real-time runs that push the limits of skill and endurance, all in the name of charity. These events have showcased not just the players' agility, but also their innovative approaches to familiar gaming landscapes.

Types of Speedruns

There are several categories of speedruns, each with its own set of rules and challenges:

  • Any%: Complete the game as fast as possible without restrictions. The use of glitches and exploits is encouraged, making this an exciting watch for fans of creative problem-solving.

  • 100%: Here, the objective is to complete all the game's objectives, ensuring a thorough playthrough. This category demands a deep understanding of the game's mechanics and secrets.

  • Glitchless: True to its name, this category forbids the use of glitches. Players rely purely on skills and standard gameplay strategies, making it an endurance test of another kind.

  • Tool-Assisted (TAS): In Tool-Assisted Speedruns, players use emulators to create a run that wouldn't be feasible in real time, aiming for a theoretically perfect run.

Starting Your Speedrunning Journey

To begin your speedrunning career, choose a game you love and know well. Familiarity with the game mechanics is crucial, as is a willingness to practice tirelessly to shave off precious seconds.

  1. Research and Community: Dive into speedrunning forums and videos to learn existing strategies and tips. Communities can provide invaluable insights and support.

  2. Record Your Runs: Tools like OBS Studio are essential for recording your gameplay, which you can then analyze for mistakes or areas needing improvement.

  3. Incremental Progress: Break the game into manageable segments and master these individually before attempting full runs. This will build muscle memory for each important section.

  4. Patience and Persistence: Speedrunning demands dedication. Embrace failures as learning opportunities and celebrate small victories along the way.

Iconic Speedruns to Inspire You

Some legendary speedruns have captivated audiences and inspired gamers worldwide:

  • The iconic "Super Mario 64" 120-Star runs show off precision and adaptability in a 3D space, utilizing countless techniques to navigate the colorful world quickly.
  • "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" showcases both Any% and Glitchless speedruns, where players harness everything from wrong warps to precise combat skills.
  • "Celeste," with its tight platforming mechanics, lends itself to visually striking speedruns that push speed and precision to their limits.

The Thrill of Competition and Community

What truly sets speedrunning apart is its vibrant community. By participating, you're joining a group of like-minded individuals who celebrate skill, creativity, and passion for gaming. Whether participating as a runner or a spectator, the community is welcoming and thrives on shared successes.

So why wait? Explore this mesmerizing world of speedruns, challenge yourself to break new records, and maybe even inspire others with your mastery. Your controller is your paintbrush, and the game world is your canvas. Go on, create your masterpiece!