The highly anticipated annual speedrunning event, Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ), kicks off this weekend, and it promises to be an unforgettable spectacle, blending the thrill of gaming with the energy of live music. This unique combination has become a hallmark of AGDQ, a week-long charity event that invites gamers from around the world to showcase their skills while simultaneously raising funds for meaningful causes. This year’s edition, running from January 8 to January 14, is particularly notable for its incorporation of live musical elements that aim to amplify the excitement of speedrunning.
One of the standout features of this year’s lineup is its eccentricity, with events that push the boundaries of traditional gameplay. For instance, one player plans to tackle boss battles in the critically acclaimed Elden Ring using a saxophone as a controller. This whimsical yet skilled performance exemplifies the creativity that defines AGDQ, illustrating how far gamers are willing to go to entertain their audience. Meanwhile, a live band will accompany a 16-minute speedrun of the classic arcade game Crazy Taxi, leveraging the infectious energy of punk rock music that originally characterized the game’s soundtrack.
But it doesn’t stop there. An ambitious duo will challenge themselves with a cooperative playthrough of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, sharing a single controller. Such collaborations not only intensify the entertainment value but also highlight the social aspect of gaming, drawing in players and viewers alike. Adding to the fun, a segment titled “All Romances in Fallout: New Vegas” will aim to explore every romance option within a mere 30 minutes, shedding light on an often-overlooked facet of the game—it turns out that the post-apocalyptic world has plenty of love to offer.
The inclusion of Crazy Taxi likely arises from recent discussions around a planned reboot of the franchise, suggesting a resurgence of interest in the game and its memorable soundtrack. The original versions of Crazy Taxi boasted a lineup of tracks from iconic punk bands such as The Offspring and Bad Religion, although many of these tracks were removed from later releases due to licensing issues. This year’s AGDQ aims to recapture that nostalgic essence by having the accompanying band remix and perform these beloved songs, periodically interspersed with gaming references that resonate with speedrunning enthusiasts.
Additionally, saxophonist “Dr. Doot” returns to the scene after previously completing a no-hits run of Elden Ring. His skillful melodies will enhance the atmosphere of boss battles, allowing viewers to experience the challenge in a new light. The unique sound of the saxophone, combined with clever gameplay, promises to result in a remarkable auditory experience.
AGDQ typically features an eclectic mix of titles, and this year’s roster includes classic retro games alongside modern releases. Players will demonstrate their prowess in contemporary titles such as Alan Wake 2, the Silent Hill 2 remake, and the eagerly awaited Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. Additionally, the event will introduce an intriguing challenge as players attempt to speedrun UFO 50, a collection of indie retro games. With the organizers designating a 50-minute slot for this segment, the anticipation regarding how many games will be completed within this timeframe adds an extra layer of excitement.
A defining aspect of AGDQ is its profound impact on charity. The event’s organizers have routinely managed to raise millions of dollars for various causes, with this year dedicated to the Prevent Cancer Foundation. During the previous Summer Games Done Quick, a memorable speedrun was interrupted by the notorious Windows ‘sticky keys’ feature, humorously displaying the challenges that gamers often face. Despite such distractions, players persevered, proving once again that the community can come together to support a common goal while celebrating the joy of gaming.
As AGDQ launches into its latest iteration, gamers and fans alike are poised for an extraordinary week filled with high-speed skill, musical flair, and a commitment to charity, illustrating how gaming continues to evolve as both an art form and a platform for social good.
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