Speedrunning has become one of the most fascinating subcultures in gaming, blending precision, mastery, and passion into an electrifying display of skill. At the heart of this phenomenon lies a deep love for retro video games—those classic titles that defined generations and continue to challenge players decades later.
In this blog, we dive into the art of speedrunning, explore how retro video games became the perfect canvas for it, and why this high-speed hobby continues to capture the imagination of gamers worldwide.
What is Speedrunning?
Speedrunning is the act of completing a video game—or a specific part of it—as quickly as possible, often under strict conditions or with certain self-imposed rules. Players use precise movement, glitch exploitation, and years of practice to shave off seconds or even frames from their best times.
While speedrunning exists for modern games too, retro video games are the foundation of the scene. Their linear level design, straightforward objectives, and quirks make them ideal for mastering and breaking.
Why Retro Games Are Perfect for Speedrunning
There are several reasons why retro video games remain the gold standard for speedrunners:
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Simplicity & Clarity: Older games typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end—making them perfect for time-based challenges.
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Glitches & Exploits: Retro games were developed under intense time and hardware constraints, often leading to bugs and unintended behaviors. Speedrunners have turned these quirks into tools for victory.
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Consistent Mechanics: With fewer updates or patches, retro games offer a stable playing field. Once a route or trick is discovered, it remains viable for years.
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Nostalgia Factor: Many speedrunners grew up with these games, and revisiting them in a new, competitive way adds an extra layer of excitement.
Iconic Speedruns in Retro Gaming
Some speedruns of retro video games have become legendary:
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Super Mario Bros. (NES): Beaten in under 5 minutes using perfect movement and flagpole glitches.
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The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Once thought to require hours, now completed in under 7 minutes using intricate warp glitches.
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Metroid (NES): Speedrunners aim not just for time, but also for low item pickups—adding an extra layer of challenge.
These games continue to be staples at events like Games Done Quick (GDQ), where runners showcase their skills for charity, often breaking records live.
The Community Behind the Clock
Speedrunning isn’t just about the player—it’s about the community. Runners collaborate by sharing strategies, creating tutorials, and analyzing frame data. Platforms like Speedrun.com and Discord servers allow players to compare times, share discoveries, and support one another.
For retro video games in particular, this sense of community has helped preserve obscure titles, document glitches, and breathe new life into decades-old games.
Getting Started
Interested in trying it yourself? Start with a game you already love. Watch existing speedruns, learn the route, and practice consistently. Retro video games are often more accessible and easier to emulate, making them great starting points for beginners.
Final Thoughts
Speedrunning is more than just playing fast—it's an art form, a community, and a celebration of gaming history. Retro video games offer the perfect blend of nostalgia and challenge, making them the ultimate playground for speedrunners.
So pick up that old controller, reset the timer, and see just how far—and fast—you can go.
