Speedrunning is a fascinating and dynamic aspect of gaming culture where players aim to complete video games as quickly as possible. This pursuit often involves intricate strategies, deep game knowledge, and a high level of skill. In this article, we’ll explore the art of speedrunning, its history, techniques, and the community that supports it.

 

What is Speedrunning?

 

Speedrunning involves playing a video game with the goal of finishing it in the shortest time possible. This can mean anything from optimizing gameplay strategies to finding and exploiting glitches. Speedrunning can be done in various categories, such as “Any%,” where the aim is to complete the game by any means necessary, or “100%,” where the player must achieve all in-game objectives.

 

The History of Speedrunning

 

Speedrunning’s origins can be traced back to the early days of gaming. In the 1980s, gamers would challenge themselves to complete games in record times, sharing their achievements through online forums and communities. The practice gained substantial momentum with the rise of the internet, allowing for the sharing of strategies, tricks, and videos.

 

One significant milestone in the history of speedrunning was the creation of the Speedrun.com website, which provided a centralized platform for tracking records and fostering community discussions. Additionally, events like Games BK8 Done Quick (GDQ) have played a crucial role in popularizing speedrunning by hosting charity marathons where players showcase their skills and raise money for various causes.

 

Key Techniques in Speedrunning

 

Speedrunning involves a variety of techniques to shave off precious seconds from a game’s completion time. Here are some of the most commonly used strategies:

 

Glitch Exploitation

 

Glitch exploitation involves using bugs or unintended features in the game to bypass normal gameplay mechanics. This can include actions like clipping through walls or performing sequence breaks that allow players to skip entire sections of a game. Mastering these glitches often requires extensive practice and knowledge of the game’s code.

 

Optimal Route Planning

 

Optimal route planning is crucial for achieving the fastest completion times. Speedrunners meticulously plan their routes through the game to minimize time spent on each segment. This involves selecting the most efficient paths, managing in-game resources effectively, and executing precise actions.