Unlocking the Secrets of Speedrunning: From Casual Gamer to World Record Holder

3 minutes Games24 Team

Ever watched a speedrun of your favorite game and found yourself on the edge of your seat as the player blasts through levels at blazing speed? Speedrunning is a thrilling subculture in gaming where players devote themselves to completing games as fast as possible, sometimes using mind-boggling tactics and glitches to shave off precious seconds. Whether you're a casual gamer or aspire to set world records, diving into the world of speedrunning can be a rewarding and exhilarating journey.

The Origins of Speedrunning

Speedrunning dates back to the early days of video gaming, where players in the arcade scene competed not for the highest score, but the fastest completion time. The community began to take shape with classic games like "Super Mario Bros." and "The Legend of Zelda," where gamers started exchanging VHS tapes and strategies. What was once a niche pastime has grown into a global phenomenon, thanks in large part to streaming platforms like Twitch and events such as Games Done Quick.

Different Types of Speedruns

Not all speedruns are created equal, and players often specialize in distinct categories. Here are a few of the most popular types:

  1. Any%: This is the most straightforward category where the goal is to complete the game as fast as possible, using any available in-game mechanics, glitches, or tricks.

  2. 100%: In this category, runners must complete all objectives, collect every item, and fully explore all areas of a game. It's often more demanding and time-consuming than Any%.

  3. Glitchless: For purists, glitchless runs focus on completing the game without exploiting any glitches. This often showcases the runner's deep understanding of the game mechanics and their raw skill.

  4. Category Extensions: These are unique or humorous challenges like collecting all coins in a Mario game or playing blindfolded. They test a player’s creativity and adaptability.

Tips to Start Your Speedrunning Journey

Becoming a successful speedrunner takes practice, patience, and a genuine love for the game. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Choose Your Game Wisely: Pick a game you deeply enjoy and know well. Familiarity helps you understand mechanics and strategize effectively.

  • Study the Community: Each game has a dedicated speedrunning community. Watch tutorials, join forums, and learn from other runners. Websites like speedrun.com are great resources to begin your journey.

  • Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Start by playing through the game casually to spot potential shortcuts or areas to optimize. Gradually build up to more challenging runs.

  • Record Your Runs: Not only does recording help with gathering feedback, but it also allows you to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

  • Be Patient: World records don't happen overnight. Celebrate small improvements and learn from setbacks. Speedrunning is as much about the process as it is about the final time.

The Thrill of Competition

With leaderboards updated constantly, speedrunning offers a unique competitive edge reminiscent of those early arcade days. Events like Summer Games Done Quick have brought speedrunning to mainstream audiences, raising millions for charity while showcasing incredible gaming feats.

Join the Movement

Whether you're aiming to break a world record or simply want to appreciate the mastery involved, speedrunning enriches our understanding of games and the community that cherishes them. It challenges perceptions of what's possible in gaming, and there's no better time to be part of this fascinating world.

So gear up, grab your controller, and dive into the adrenaline-pumping universe of speedrunning—where every second counts and every playthrough could be your next best run!