Speedrunning has evolved into a highly competitive and beloved gaming discipline, captivating players who strive to complete their favorite games as fast as possible. What began as a niche hobby has transformed into a global phenomenon, with communities rallying around leaderboards, events like Games Done Quick, and endless optimization strategies. If you’re ready to dive into the world of speedrunning, this guide is for you.
From selecting the right game to executing frame-perfect tricks, mastering the art of speedrunning requires strategy, patience, and dedication. Let’s explore the top 10 tips to help you achieve your personal best.
1. Choose the Right Game to Speedrun
The first step to becoming a great speedrunner is choosing a game that aligns with your interests and goals. Popular choices like Super Mario 64, Celeste, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time are highly optimized by the community, offering a wealth of resources and competition. Alternatively, lesser-run games can present a unique opportunity to set records without as much rivalry.
Pro Tip: Look for games with active speedrunning communities, as they provide valuable tutorials, route guides, and moral support.
2. Understand the Speedrunning Categories
Speedrunning isn’t a one-size-fits-all pursuit. Most games feature several categories, such as Any%, 100%, and glitchless runs, each with unique requirements.
- Any% focuses on finishing the game as quickly as possible, often using glitches.
- 100% involves completing the game fully, including collectibles and side objectives.
- Glitchless prohibits using unintended exploits, emphasizing clean execution.
Choose a category that aligns with your playstyle and gradually branch out into others as you gain confidence.
3. Study Speedrunning Resources
Learning from experienced speedrunners is essential. Resources like speedrun.com, YouTube tutorials, and Twitch streams provide invaluable insights into routing, glitches, and execution. Watching world record runs helps you understand optimal strategies and timing.
Pro Tip: Join forums or Discord communities to ask questions and share your progress.
4. Master Game Mechanics
A deep understanding of a game’s mechanics is vital for effective speedrunning. This includes knowing movement options, enemy patterns, boss weaknesses, and item locations. Familiarize yourself with how the game handles under different scenarios, such as low health or skipping cutscenes.
Spend time practicing tricky sections repeatedly to ensure consistency during runs.
5. Optimize Your Route
Route planning is the backbone of every speedrun. This involves mapping out the fastest way to complete the game while accounting for required items, boss fights, and potential shortcuts.
Experiment with different strategies, and don’t be afraid to deviate from existing routes if you find something faster. Routes evolve over time, so stay flexible.
6. Practice Frame-Perfect Tricks
Many speedruns rely on frame-perfect tricks that demand precision and timing. These can range from executing pixel-perfect jumps to exploiting glitches that save valuable seconds.
Dedicate specific practice sessions to mastering these techniques. Tools like frame advance in emulators can help you understand timing and improve consistency.
7. Record and Analyze Your Runs
Recording your runs allows you to analyze mistakes and identify areas for improvement. Tools like OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) and capture cards make it easy to document your gameplay.
Reviewing your footage helps you pinpoint where you lost time and refine your approach.
8. Develop a Strong Mental Game
Speedrunning is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Runs can fail due to nerves, frustration, or fatigue. Cultivate a positive mindset and practice mindfulness to stay focused during high-stakes moments.
Break down runs into smaller sections mentally, so mistakes in one area don’t derail your entire effort.
9. Stay Updated with the Community
Speedrunning communities are constantly discovering new strategies and glitches that can revolutionize runs. Staying connected with forums, leaderboards, and social media ensures you’re aware of the latest developments.
Sharing your experiences and learning from others fosters collaboration and keeps the experience enjoyable.
10. Participate in Speedrunning Events
Joining events like Games Done Quick or community marathons not only tests your skills but also builds confidence. These events celebrate the art of speedrunning and provide opportunities to connect with fellow gamers.
Even if you’re not a world-record holder, participating in these events is a rewarding experience.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of speedrunning is a journey that combines skill, creativity, and persistence. By choosing the right game, studying proven strategies, and engaging with the community, you can push your limits and achieve incredible feats.