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

3 minutes Games24 Team

Have you ever witnessed someone finish a massive game like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" in under thirty minutes and wondered how on earth they did it? Welcome to the thrilling world of speedrunning, where gamers race against the clock to complete games in record times. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the heart-pounding excitement of speedrunning, explore popular games in the community, and offer tips to get you started on your own speedrunning journey.

What is Speedrunning?

Speedrunning is the art of completing a video game or a portion of it as quickly as possible. This gaming phenomenon has turned into a full-fledged sport, with a community that hosts events like Games Done Quick, raising millions for charity. The challenge lies not just in finishing quickly but also in mastering every pixel of the game, learning tricks and glitches, and developing new strategies.

Categories and Routes

Speedruns can be broken down into various categories and routes, each offering unique challenges. The most common categories include:

  • Any%: Finish the game as fast as possible, using any means necessary, including glitches and skips.
  • 100%: Complete every objective in the game.
  • Glitchless: Finish without using any glitches.
  • Low%: Finish the game with the least amount of items or upgrades.

Choosing a category usually depends on personal preference and the community surrounding the game.

The rising popularity of speedrunning can be credited to a few key factors:

  • Community and Competitions: Platforms like Twitch allow speedrunners to showcase their skills, while Reddit and Discord provide space for sharing tips and routing strategies.

  • Event Streaming: Major speedrunning events are streamed live, offering thrilling entertainment and often supporting charity causes.

  • Challenge and Skill: Speedrunning is the ultimate test of a gamer’s skill and dedication, turning even casual gaming experiences into intense, skill-based competitions.

While almost any game can be speedrun, some titles are particularly beloved in the community due to their mechanics, glitches, or nostalgia factor:

  • Super Mario 64: Known for its advanced techniques and diverse categories.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Famous for its exploit-rich environment allowing for various completion methods.
  • Celeste: Celebrated for its precise controls and challenging levels.

Each game requires different skills and understanding, making the speedrunning experience rich and diverse.

Tips for Aspiring Speedrunners

Ready to give speedrunning a try? Here are some tips to get started:

  1. Choose the Right Game: Opt for a game you love and are willing to play repeatedly. Consider starting with titles that have strong community support.

  2. Study and Learn: Watch tutorials and read guides to understand routes and techniques. Sites like Speedrun.com offer invaluable resources.

  3. Practice: Speedrunning is all about muscle memory and precision. Dedicate time to practice different sections and improve your time gradually.

  4. Join the Community: Engage with others in forums and communities to share insights, gain motivation, and receive support.

Entering the world of speedrunning can be daunting, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience that offers a fresh way to enjoy games you already love. Whether you become a viewer or a runner, the community is welcoming and eager to help you along your journey. Ready, set, go!