Unlocking the Secrets of Speedrunning: A Gamer's Ultimate Guide

4 minutes Games24 Team

There's something thrilling about watching the pros tear through your favorite game at record-breaking speeds. Speedrunning has evolved from a niche community activity to a celebrated aspect of gaming culture, with events like Games Done Quick becoming major points on the gaming calendar. But what does it take to become a great speedrunner? How do these gamers make the impossible look easy, and what secrets are they using to demolish records in mere minutes? Let’s dive into the thrilling world of speedrunning and uncover the secrets behind the speed.

What is Speedrunning?

For those who might not be in the loop, speedrunning is the hobby (or for some, the competitive pursuit) of completing a game as fast as possible. Players exploit glitches, memorize patterns, optimize movement, and sometimes even use custom-made tools to squeeze every possible second out of their run. The pursuit of perfection makes for riveting viewing and intense gameplay.

Speedruns are often categorized to add layers of challenges or remove potential exploits, creating fair conditions for competition:

  • Any%: Complete the game as quickly as possible, by any means necessary. This category often includes the use of glitches and skips.

  • 100%: A more comprehensive approach, requiring players to achieve full completion of objectives, collectibles, or missions in the shortest time.

  • Glitchless: As the term suggests, this run style prohibits the use of glitches, requiring players to rely purely on skillful gameplay.

  • Low%: Similar to Any%, but aiming to complete the game with as few items and upgrades as possible.

The Skills that Make Speedrunners Tick

Speedrunning is as much about skill as it is about knowledge and strategy. Here are some of the key competencies:

Mastery of Mechanics

Speedrunners are intimately familiar with the game's mechanics. They utilize advanced techniques and precision timing to perform feats that might seem impossible to the casual player. For instance, backward long jumps in "Super Mario 64" allow players to bypass entire sections of the game.

Pattern Recognition

Games, particularly older ones like those on the NES or SNES, often work with predictable patterns. Knowing enemy behavior and level layouts helps speedrunners plan their routes efficiently.

Resource Management

In many speedruns, particularly 100% runs, managing in-game resources like health, stamina, or items is critical. Speedrunners have calculated exactly how much they can afford to lose or must conserve at every point.

Famous Speedruns That Made History

Here are some legendary speedruns that have left their mark:

  • "Super Mario Bros." by Kosmicd12: Achieving a run of under 5 minutes, this speedrun is iconic for its fluid movement and utter mastery of Mario's mechanics.

  • "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" by Torje: Using a combination of glitches and perfect execution, Torje completed the game in a jaw-dropping 16 minutes.

  • "Elden Ring" by Seeker TV: In an astounding display of skill, Seeker TV completed this challenging modern game in less than an hour using an Any% run.

Getting Started with Speedrunning

Ready to get your feet wet? Here’s how you can start your speedrunning journey:

  1. Choose Your Game: Pick a game you love, one you’re willing to play repeatedly. Often older games with simpler mechanics are a good starting point.

  2. Study the Greats: Watch existing speedruns on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Learn the strats and see what the best are doing.

  3. Join the Community: Websites like Speedrun.com have active communities where you can find tips, tricks, and a little good-hearted competition.

  4. Practice, Practice, Practice: Speedrunning requires dedication. Practice until your controller feels like an extension of your body.

  5. Record and Submit: Once you’re confident, record your run and submit it to the wider community. Who knows? You might just set the next record.

Speedrunning is about more than just speed; it's a testament to a gamer's skill, dedication, and ability to push the boundaries of what's considered possible. Whether you're in it for fun or fame, the speedrunning community is ready to welcome you into its ranks. Happy running!