playthroughs

A playthrough is a recording or written account of playing a video game or other interactive media, typically detailing the player’s progression from start to finish. Playthroughs may include commentary, narration, reactions, and analysis, and can emphasize storytelling, puzzle solving, exploration, or performance. They differ from standalone reviews by focusing on the experience of playing rather than evaluating the game at a distance.

Common formats include video playthroughs and livestreams, often branded as “Let's Plays,” as well as written walkthroughs or diaries. Some playthroughs are unedited, while others are edited for pacing, humor, or clarity. Additional varieties include blind playthroughs (first-time experiences), nostalgia runs, challenge runs with self-imposed restrictions, and glitch or speed-focused demonstrations.

Purposes of playthroughs include entertainment, guidance for other players, documentation of game content, and the creation of community discussion around choices, endings, and hidden content. They frequently incorporate spoiler warnings, viewer interaction, and timestamped highlights. Platforms such as YouTube and livestream services enable monetization and community feedback, while forums and wikis host transcripts, summaries, and fan analysis.

Playthroughs are distinct from traditional walkthroughs or guides, which aim to provide step-by-step instructions. They also differ from speedruns, which prioritize timing rather than narrative experience. As participatory media, playthroughs contribute to fan culture, discourse around game design, and collective memory of games.