speedrunner

A speedrunner is a player who attempts to play through a video game or a section of a video game as quickly as possible. This is often achieved through a combination of deep game knowledge, precise execution of gameplay mechanics, and the discovery and exploitation of glitches or sequence breaks. Speedrunning communities dedicated to specific games or genres often develop and share strategies, known as "routes," which are meticulously planned sequences of actions designed to minimize completion time.

There are several categories within speedrunning, with the most common being "Any%" and "100%." Any% allows players to use any available means, including glitches, to reach the end of the game as fast as possible, regardless of how much content is completed. 100% requires the player to complete all objectives, collect all items, or achieve every possible goal within the game, which typically results in a much longer completion time. Other categories exist, such as "low%" which challenges players to finish the game with the lowest possible score or item acquisition.

The culture of speedrunning involves a strong emphasis on personal bests (PBs) and world records (WRs). Players often stream their attempts live on platforms like Twitch, sharing their progress and engaging with viewers. Major speedrunning marathons, such as Games Done Quick (GDQ), raise money for charities by showcasing skilled runs and encouraging donations, further popularizing the hobby. The pursuit of faster times often leads to innovative gameplay and a deeper understanding of game design.