Description: Speedrunning is a gaming modality where players attempt to complete a video game in the shortest time possible. This practice has become a phenomenon within the gaming community, where skill, strategy, and game knowledge are fundamental. Speedrunners use various techniques, such as ‘glitching’ (exploiting game errors) and route optimization, to minimize completion time. Speedruns can be performed in different categories, ranging from completing the entire game to achieving specific objectives, such as finishing a level or defeating a boss. The speedrunning community organizes around platforms like Twitch and YouTube, where players share their achievements and compete against each other. Additionally, there are charity events like ‘Games Done Quick’, where speedrunners gather to play live and raise funds for various causes. This phenomenon not only highlights players’ skills but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among video game enthusiasts, turning speedrunning into a form of art and entertainment in the digital world.
History: Speedrunning began to gain popularity in the 1990s when players started sharing their completion times on forums and websites. One of the first games to be speedrun was ‘Super Mario Bros.’, where players competed for the best time. With the rise of the Internet, platforms like Speedrun.com were established to record and validate speedrunners’ times. Over the years, speedrunning has evolved, incorporating new techniques and categories, and has seen significant growth in its community, especially with the advent of streaming platforms.
Uses: Speedrunning is primarily used as a form of entertainment and competition within the gaming community. Players seek to improve their times and skills, fostering practice and mastery of games. Additionally, speedrunning has become a tool for fundraising in charity events, where players conduct speedrunning marathons to support various causes.
Examples: A notable example of speedrunning is the world record for ‘Super Mario 64’, where players have completed the game in under 5 minutes using advanced techniques. Another example is ‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time’, which has been the subject of numerous competitions and records, with players using glitches to finish the game in under 20 minutes.
