Speedrunning Marathon Events: The Best Places to Watch and Compete

26 February 2025

Speedrunning. If you’ve been around the gaming scene for even a moment, you’ve probably heard this word thrown around like a fireball in Super Mario Bros. It’s the art of blazing through a game at breakneck speed, conquering bosses, solving puzzles, and navigating glitches faster than you can say “warp zone.” But here’s the thing—speedrunning isn’t just a solo mission anymore. It’s grown into a full-blown community phenomenon, complete with marathon events that bring gamers from across the globe together.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or someone curious about the hype, speedrunning marathons are where the magic happens. These events aren’t just about virtual bragging rights (though let’s be real, that’s a big part of it). They’re about connecting with like-minded players, setting world records, and raising insane amounts of money for charity. So, buckle up, because we’re diving headfirst into the best places to watch and compete in speedrunning marathon events.

What Are Speedrunning Marathon Events?

First things first—what’s a speedrunning marathon? Think of it as the gaming equivalent of a rock concert, but instead of guitars and drums, you’ve got controllers and PCs. It’s a live event where gamers showcase their speedrunning skills, often stringing together multiple games over hours (or even days!) of non-stop action.

The coolest part? Most marathons are streamed live, so you don’t need a backstage pass to get in on the fun—you can watch from the comfort of your couch. And if you’re feeling ambitious, some events even invite new runners to join the lineup. How awesome is that?

Oh, and let’s not forget the cherry on top: these marathons often raise money for charity. So, every jaw-dropping glitch exploit or pixel-perfect jump you witness is helping someone in the real world. Gaming for a good cause? Sign me up!

The Must-Watch Speedrunning Marathon Events

Ready to dive in? Let’s talk about the absolute cream of the crop when it comes to speedrunning marathons.

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1. Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ)

Let’s start with the big leagues. AGDQ is hands-down one of the most iconic speedrunning events on the planet. Hosted annually in January, this week-long extravaganza features a lineup of top-tier runners showing off their skills across a massive variety of games. From old-school classics like Super Metroid to modern hits like Elden Ring, you’ll find it all here.

The best part? AGDQ raises millions of dollars for the Prevent Cancer Foundation every year. Yup, you heard that right—millions. It’s like the Olympics of speedrunning, but with a heartwarming twist. Plus, the commentary is always on point, breaking down the technical details in a way that even non-gamers can appreciate. Trust me, once you tune in, you’ll be hooked.

2. Summer Games Done Quick (SGDQ)

Think of SGDQ as AGDQ’s sunny, laid-back sibling. Held every summer, this event is just as intense and entertaining, but with a bit more of a chill vibe. You’ll see plenty of familiar faces from AGDQ, along with some new talent eager to make their mark.

SGDQ typically supports Doctors Without Borders, a global organization that provides medical aid to those in need. So again, it’s gaming for a purpose. There’s something incredibly special about watching a gamer nail a glitch that saves them 30 seconds while knowing that someone, somewhere, is benefiting from it.

3. European Speedrunner Assembly (ESA)

Crossing the Atlantic, we’ve got the European Speedrunner Assembly. If AGDQ and SGDQ are the American blockbusters of speedrunning, ESA is the indie darling with a European flair. Held twice a year—ESA Winter and ESA Summer—this marathon brings together runners from all over Europe (and beyond).

What sets ESA apart is its cozy, community-driven atmosphere. Don’t get me wrong, the runs are just as spectacular, but there’s a laid-back, “we’re all in this together” vibe that makes it stand out. Plus, the event raises money for charities like Save the Children, so you know your viewership is making a difference.

4. Calithon

Looking for something a little more West Coast? Enter Calithon, California’s premier speedrunning marathon. This smaller-scale event has a charm all its own, offering a mix of big names and up-and-coming runners.

Calithon might not have the sheer scale of AGDQ or ESA, but it more than makes up for it with its tight-knit community and unique game selections. It’s like finding a hidden gem in your favorite game—unexpected, but oh-so-rewarding.

5. FleetFest

Okay, this one’s for the indie game lovers. FleetFest focuses on speedrunning indie titles, shining a spotlight on hidden gems and cult favorites. From pixelated platformers to quirky RPGs, this event is a breath of fresh air for anyone tired of the usual AAA lineup.

Think of it as the speedrunning world’s version of an indie film festival. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s definitely worth checking out.

How to Get Involved in Speedrunning

So, you’ve been bitten by the speedrunning bug. Maybe you’re itching to try your hand at a marathon event, or maybe you just want to learn the ropes. Either way, here’s how to get started:

1. Pick Your Game

The first step is choosing the right game to speedrun. My advice? Start with something you love. It’s way easier to put in the hours of practice needed if you genuinely enjoy the game. Plus, every game has its own speedrunning community, so you’ll have plenty of resources to help you out.

2. Learn the Tricks

Speedrunning isn’t just about playing fast—it’s about playing smart. This means learning glitches, skips, and other tricks to shave off precious seconds. Check out guides, watch tutorials, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The speedrunning community is notoriously welcoming to newcomers.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

This one’s a no-brainer, right? Speedrunning takes a lot of practice—like, a lot. But the payoff? Totally worth it. There’s nothing quite like the rush of nailing that perfect run after hours of grinding.

4. Join a Community

Speedrunning isn’t a solo sport. Join forums, Discord servers, or social media groups dedicated to your chosen game. Not only will you make friends, but you’ll also pick up tips and tricks that can help you improve.

5. Apply to Marathons

Ready to take the plunge? Keep an eye on marathon announcements and submit your runs for consideration. Even if you don’t get accepted right away, don’t sweat it—just keep practicing and refining your craft.

Why Speedrunning Marathons Are Worth Your Time

At this point, you might be wondering: “Why should I care about speedrunning marathons?” Well, let me tell you—they’re more than just a showcase of gaming talent. They’re a celebration of creativity, determination, and community. They’re a place where gamers unite, not just to play, but to make a difference.

And hey, even if you’re just tuning in as a viewer, you’re still part of the magic. After all, every donation, every cheer in the chat, and every message of support adds to the energy that makes these events so special. So go ahead—grab some snacks, pull up a stream, and immerse yourself in the world of speedrunning marathons. You won’t regret it.

Final Thoughts

Speedrunning marathon events are the ultimate fusion of passion, skill, and heart. They’re a spectacle to behold, whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just someone curious about what all the fuss is about. From the jaw-dropping performances at AGDQ to the indie charm of FleetFest, there’s a marathon for everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of speedrunning, whether as a viewer or a competitor. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite pastime—or even your claim to fame.