Speedrunning turns gaming into a methodical craft where planning, repetition, and small deliberate choices often matter more than raw reflexes.
Key Takeaways
- Understand categories: Knowing category rules and selecting one clear focus accelerates effective practice.
- Plan and split: Route planning and using splits turn aimless play into targeted improvement.
- Prioritize consistency: Reliable execution and reduced variance often beat rare spectacular runs.
- Practice deliberately: Structured sessions, segment drills, and recorded VOD review produce measurable progress.
- Engage the community: Learning from and contributing to community resources speeds learning and preserves standards.
What is speedrunning and why it fascinates
Speedrunning is the pursuit of completing a video game—or a defined objective within a game—as quickly as possible within community-agreed rules. It combines mechanical skill with strategy, deep system knowledge, and sometimes technical exploration of unintended mechanics. The appeal lies in measurable progress, the intellectual puzzle of route design, and the collaborative nature of discovery that keeps older games continually interesting.
Although highlight reels emphasize frame-perfect inputs and dramatic tricks, the most reliable progress usually stems from preparation, consistent practice, and thoughtful decision-making outside of visible attempts. Beginners who learn to balance planning, segmented training, and run execution tend to improve faster and sustain motivation longer.
Types of speedruns and rule categories
Speedrunning communities define categories that shape how someone trains and what is considered a valid run. Understanding major categories helps a newcomer choose a path aligned with their interests and time constraints.
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Any% — Finish the game as quickly as possible using any means allowed by that category’s rules.
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100% — Complete every required objective or collect all items defined by the community for a full completion.
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Glitchless — Runs that avoid exploitation of unintended mechanics, focusing on intended progression.
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Low% — Finish the game with the fewest resources or items possible, requiring creative routing to compensate for missing upgrades.
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Tool-Assisted Speedrun (TAS) — Created using emulators and frame-by-frame inputs to show theoretical limits; useful for strategy discovery but not comparable to real-time runs.
Individual games often have many subcategories, platform distinctions, and rules about glitches, RNG manipulation, timer start/stop, and recording requirements. For official rules and leaderboards, speedrun.com is the central hub for most communities.
Route planning: the strategic heart of a run
Route planning means designing the sequence of areas, items, and mechanics that will be used in a run. It is the strategic map that governs split placement, practice focus, and reset thresholds.
Good routing weighs three factors: time saved, probability of success, and execution difficulty. Prioritizing optimizations that offer substantial, reliable time savings yields faster improvement than chasing marginal gains with high variance.
Start by learning the beat map
Beginners should first play through a game casually to internalize its structure—levels, checkpoints, boss patterns, and menu flow. This “beat map” helps identify chokepoints and candidate shortcuts that are worth investigating.
After a baseline playthrough, studying community resources accelerates learning. Written guides, segmented route files, and annotated videos illustrate common strategies. Official community pages on speedrun.com and game-specific Discords are valuable starting points.
Identify high-value optimizations
Not all improvements are equally valuable. A pragmatic approach is to prioritize:
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Skips that save large blocks of time with moderate reliability.
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Shorter paths that require manageable movement precision.
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Consistent enemy manipulation or menu optimizations that avoid lengthy fights or sequences.
Sketching an initial route—start strategy, key objectives per segment, and which skips to attempt—creates a testable hypothesis. As evidence accumulates during practice, the runner can refine the route to favor consistent gains.
Routings evolve — keep them flexible
Routes change as new tricks are found, execution improves, or category rules shift. Early routing should be seen as provisional; the runner validates changes with focused practice and community feedback rather than adopting them wholesale without proof.
Splits: measuring progress and guiding practice
Splits are checkpoints that divide a run into manageable segments for timing and analysis. They help a runner target practice and measure progress more reliably than assessing whole-run outcomes alone.
Choosing split points
Good split points correspond to natural breakpoints—level ends, boss defeats, major items, or after high-risk tricks. Splits should reflect the route so that improvements in a segment translate directly to the planned sequence.
Tools and display
LiveSplit is an industry-standard timer and split manager, available at livesplit.org. It supports comparisons to best segments, possible time save calculations, and exporting split files. New runners should learn to configure LiveSplit for game timer settings, load-removal behavior, and importing community splits.
Other tools, like OBS Studio, help capture runs. Recordings paired with LiveSplit overlays make later analysis straightforward and provide evidence for leaderboard submissions.
Using splits to practice with purpose
Instead of repeatedly running full games, it is more efficient to isolate a problematic split and practice it until it reaches a target performance level. After reaching that threshold, the runner chains that improved segment with adjacent ones to rebuild run length gradually.
Resets: knowing when to start over
Resets are an accepted and strategic part of speedrunning: abandoning a run when recovery is unlikely or inefficient. Good reset judgment maximizes productive practice time.
When a reset makes sense
Resets are sensible when an unrecoverable mistake or severe RNG event makes continued play less productive than restarting. A common heuristic is to reset when the expected time cost to recover exceeds the chance of a better finish by continuing.
Resets also preserve mental energy; continuing a demoralized run often compounds errors and reduces practice value.
Reset strategy to build resilience
Beginners sometimes fear resets as failures. A more useful mindset treats them as data: each aborted run reveals weak links to target in practice. Maintaining a short log of reset reasons—RNG, missed skip, menu error—reveals patterns that guide focused drills.
Balancing full-run attempts with segment practice reduces the number of resets required while ensuring breadth of skill development.
Consistency over raw speed: the long-term advantage
While spectacular tricks can produce dramatic PBs, consistent, repeatable performance typically produces better expected outcomes across many attempts. A consistent runner will usually have lower variance and produce more watchable runs.
Why consistency matters
Speedruns are subject to variance—RNG, opponent behavior, and frame-dependent mechanics. A risky strategy with a small chance of success inflates variance and reduces expected overall speed. Consistent strategies make progress measurable and sustainable.
Training for consistency
To build consistency the runner should:
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Break complex inputs into fundamentals and practice them until automatic.
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Keep controller settings and game configurations constant between sessions.
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Practice under varying conditions occasionally to reduce brittleness under pressure.
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Adopt conservative routes early and only integrate risky shortcuts after safety nets are proven.
Practical training routines and session planning
Structured sessions beat aimless repetition. A consistent routine ensures balanced progress across technical skills, RNG management, and stamina.
Session structure
An effective session template might include:
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Warm-up: 10–15 minutes of casual play to establish timing and comfort.
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Focused skill blocks: 30–60 minutes on specific splits or mechanics with deliberate drills.
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Chaining practice: several attempts to connect improved segments into longer runs.
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Cool-down and review: watch clips of the best runs, log errors, and plan the next session.
Short, frequent sessions are generally better for motor learning than long, infrequent marathons.
Exercise, rest, and retention
Motor skill retention benefits from spaced repetition. Scheduling short daily practice windows with weekly review sessions prevents plateaus. Rest days and quality sleep significantly improve consolidation of procedural memory and reaction speed.
Analyzing runs: how to learn from footage
Recording and reviewing runs is essential for objective improvement. Video reveals subtle timing errors and decision-making faults that feel different in the moment.
What to look for in VODs
When reviewing a run, the runner should note:
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Where time was lost compared to ideal or target segments.
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Which RNG events influenced outcomes and whether they could be mitigated.
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Repeated micro-errors that suggest specific drills (e.g., slightly late jumps or inconsistent menu inputs).
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Routing or menu choices that could be tightened.
Timestamps and concise notes make subsequent practice more focused and efficient.
Frame-by-frame and TAS comparison
For deep analysis, runners sometimes use frame-by-frame review and compare real-time attempts to TAS examples. TAS runs, available at TASVideos, help set theoretical benchmarks and inspire route ideas, though many TAS techniques are not feasible in live play.
Advanced strategies: RNG control, glitches, and backup plans
As experience grows, the runner will explore advanced tactics such as RNG manipulation, glitch exploitation, and contingency strategies for unpredictable situations.
Understanding and influencing RNG
Random number generation (RNG) governs many in-game behaviors—item drops, enemy patterns, and critical hit chances. Learning how a game seeds RNG and what actions influence it can turn apparent randomness into manageable risk.
Practical RNG tactics include consistent movement patterns that avoid altering RNG state, using safe manipulation where deterministic inputs produce consistent outcomes, and designing routes that minimize dependence on highly volatile RNG events.
Glitch discovery and safe implementation
Glitches can yield major time savings but also add risk. When exploring a glitch the runner should:
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Verify reproducibility across several sessions and platforms.
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Test whether the glitch introduces new failure modes or edge-case bugs.
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Document version and platform specifics so the community can evaluate fairness.
New glitches should be shared with community moderators before being submitted for leaderboards, and many communities maintain clear rules about which glitches are allowed in each category.
Backup routing and split safety
Good routing includes fallback options for common failure points. For example, if a risky skip fails, a runner should have a quick recovery route that minimizes time loss and avoids cascading errors. Including these contingencies in the route sketch simplifies decision-making under pressure.
Verification, leaderboards, and submission standards
Submitting a run to a leaderboard requires evidence and adherence to community rules. Understanding verification procedures prevents rejected submissions and builds credibility with peers.
Common verification requirements
Communities typically require an unedited video, the correct category and platform, and a clear timer method. Some also require console footage if console-specific behavior matters. Detailed rules are posted on game pages at speedrun.com and community forums.
When submitting, the runner should include metadata: category, platform, emulator information (if used), input/display settings, and any tools or patches applied. Transparency speeds up verification and reduces disputes.
Timing methods and proof
Different games use in-game timing (IGT) or real time. The community determines which is appropriate per category. Runners should configure LiveSplit accordingly and ensure recordings show the timer or provide separate timestamped overlays if required.
Platform differences, legality, and emulator use
Platform choice affects performance characteristics and category eligibility. Some communities treat console, PC, and emulator runs as separate leaderboards due to behavioral differences.
Emulators: pros, cons, and community stance
Emulators offer convenient features like save states and frame stepping but may introduce timing differences or allow TAS-like manipulation. Many communities allow emulator runs but mark them separately and restrict certain tools. Consulting the game’s rule page on speedrun.com clarifies community consensus.
Legal and ethical considerations
Runners should avoid distributing or using unauthorized game builds or pirated copies. Respecting intellectual property and event rules maintains community trust and ensures runs remain eligible for events and leaderboards.
Hardware, software, and streaming setup for reliable runs
A stable, well-documented setup reduces random failure sources that can derail otherwise excellent runs.
Input hardware and calibration
Many runners prefer wired controllers to avoid latency, and they document controller models, dead-zone settings, and sensitivity. For keyboard users, stable keybindings and consistent polling rates matter. Recording the setup prevents accidental changes between sessions.
Display, frame rate, and latency
A consistent frame rate and low display latency are important for precise inputs. If a game behaves differently across platforms, the runner should commit to the platform that best matches the chosen category and be aware of platform-specific quirks.
Recording, overlays, and streaming best practices
Recording with OBS Studio provides flexible quality and streaming options. Including a LiveSplit overlay in recordings helps verifiers and viewers understand segment performance. For streaming, adding chat moderation and a clear privacy policy improves audience experience.
Community, etiquette, and learning from others
Speedrunning communities are collaborative but expect respectful behavior. Effective community engagement accelerates learning and contributes to the broader knowledge base.
Where to learn and share
Useful community resources include:
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speedrun.com — leaderboards, rules, and community hubs.
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Speed Demos Archive (SDA) — historical runs and write-ups.
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TASVideos — tool-assisted runs and theoretical insights.
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Twitch and YouTube — live streams and educational VODs from experienced runners.
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Game-specific Discords, Reddit communities such as r/speedrun, and forum threads for targeted help and route discussions.
Etiquette for asking for help
When requesting advice, providing clear context speeds up useful responses: specify the category, platform, split names, and attach VOD timestamps or short clips. Appreciating community time and acknowledging contributors fosters better collaboration.
Racing etiquette and marathons
In races and charity marathons like Games Done Quick (GDQ), adherence to posted rules, honest timing, and timely submission of required materials are essential. Runners should be transparent about their setup and avoid misrepresenting runs.
Mental approach, motivation, and managing frustration
Speedrunning is mentally demanding; progress is often incremental and interspersed with setbacks. A sustainable mental approach preserves long-term engagement.
Process-oriented goals
Process goals—such as improving a split average or achieving a target consistency rate for a trick—provide meaningful milestones beyond personal bests. They help the runner recognize progress even when PBs stagnate.
Managing tilt and fatigue
Recognizing signs of tilt—rising frustration or decreasing input quality—prevents negative practice from reinforcing bad habits. When tilt appears, a short break, light exercise, or switching to casual play helps reset focus. Logging session quality helps plan future practice more effectively.
Motivation through community and events
Streaming runs, participating in races, or contributing route guides are ways to keep motivation high. Charity events and marathons offer strong external incentives and a sense of purpose beyond leaderboard placement.
Health, ergonomics, and injury prevention
Long sessions with repetitive inputs can cause strain. Preventive measures protect both performance and long-term well-being.
Ergonomic setup
An ergonomic workspace with proper chair support, keyboard/controller placement, and screen height reduces strain. Adjustable desks and wrist supports can help maintain neutral postures during extended practice.
Warm-ups and breaks
Light hand, wrist, and forearm warm-ups before intensive sessions reduce injury risk. The 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) reduces eye strain, and scheduled micro-breaks every 30–45 minutes improve sustained performance.
When to seek professional advice
If persistent pain or numbness appears, consulting a medical professional or physical therapist is important. Preventing repetitive strain injuries ensures longevity in the hobby or career.
Beginner-friendly games and category selection
Choosing the right game and category influences learning speed and enjoyment. Some games have welcoming communities and abundant beginner resources.
Criteria for a beginner-friendly game
Good beginner titles typically have:
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Clear, well-documented categories and active communities.
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Short average run times (20–60 minutes) to allow many attempts per session.
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Mechanics that reward skill development without excessive frame-perfect requirements.
Examples vary by personal taste; researching community forums and试玩 videos helps identify suitable options. The runner should pick one category and commit to it for a few months to build focused momentum.
Streamer and content creator tips for speedrunners
Streaming runs and educational content broadens audience reach and creates learning opportunities through viewer feedback and community support.
Balancing practice and entertainment
When streaming, mixing focused practice with viewer interaction keeps content engaging without sacrificing progress. Clearly labeling practice segments and show-and-tell explanations of routes and splits helps viewers follow along.
Overlay and moderation tools
Including LiveSplit overlays, chat moderation bots, and simple on-screen annotations improves viewer comprehension. Moderation prevents harassment and preserves a welcoming environment for both the runner and newcomers.
Measuring progress and knowing when a run is “good”
Beyond PBs, a variety of metrics help assess improvement reliably over time.
Useful metrics
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Average segment times over multiple runs reveal consistent performance shifts.
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Success rate for difficult tricks or sequences, expressed as a percentage.
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Variance in run times; tightening variance implies growing consistency.
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Practice distribution showing hours on focused segments versus full attempts.
A run is “good” not only when it sets a PB, but when the runner consistently hits target averages, reduces variance, and increases success rates on planned techniques.
Common beginner mistakes and how to avoid them
New runners often repeat predictable errors. Awareness and preemptive actions reduce wasted practice time.
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Chasing tricks too early — Prioritizing risky tricks before mastering fundamentals erodes consistency; begin with conservative routing.
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Overtraining without review — Repetitive practice without analysis slows progress; schedule regular VOD reviews and targeted drills.
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Ignoring splits — Whole-run attempts without segment analysis obscure weak spots; use splits to isolate issues.
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Unstable setup — Frequent hardware or setting changes introduce unnecessary variation; document configurations and maintain them.
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Skipping community resources — Many optimizations are community discoveries; active engagement accelerates learning.
Preparing for races, marathons, and events
Competitive environments bring unique constraints: live audiences, time limits, and stricter verification. Preparation reduces anxiety and increases the chance of a successful run.
Rehearsal strategies
Simulating race conditions—streaming practice sessions, running with a competitor, or deliberately practicing with distractions—builds resilience. Runners should also rehearse technical checks like recording start/stop procedures and overlay setup.
Event rules and safety standards
Marathon organizers publish event rules regarding timing, splits, and submission formats. Thorough reading and pre-submission of uncut VODs and technical logs prevents last-minute disqualification. Events like GDQ also emphasize runner safety and accessibility; following their guidance ensures positive participation.
How to progress from beginner to intermediate
Transitioning beyond basics requires intentional expansion of skills and community contribution.
Incremental expansion plan
An intermediate development path includes:
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Systematic study of RNG mechanics and learning reproducible manipulations.
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Implementing frame-by-frame analysis for critical moments and comparing to TAS benchmarks.
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Contributing findings to the community via guides, annotated VODs, or route files.
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Participating in races and local marathons to gain experience under pressure.
Sharing discoveries not only benefits others but also reinforces the runner’s understanding through explanation and documentation.
Encouraging questions and tips for readers
Which game will the runner choose to start speedrunning? Choosing a game with an active, helpful community usually speeds learning and increases enjoyment.
Practical starter tips include:
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Pick one category and commit to it for several months to concentrate improvement.
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Use community splits as a template, then adapt them as routes evolve.
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Record and log sessions to build a repository of evidence and a map of progress.
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Practice in blocks devoted separately to technique, RNG work, and full-run chaining.
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Prioritize rest and ergonomics to keep inputs sharp and avoid injury.
Speedrunning rewards patience, curiosity, and meticulous practice. By planning routes deliberately, using splits to target practice, resetting smartly, and prioritizing consistency, a beginner can make steady, measurable gains. Which segment will the runner tackle next?
