Amidst the Chaos, SGDQ Celebrates the Joy of Gaming

If you’re on the hunt for an exhilarating sporting event that lifts your spirits, fosters a welcoming global community, and, importantly, stays clear of blatant corruption, then Summer Games Done Quick is just what you need. Currently underway and running until Saturday, July 11th, this annual speedrunning charity event raises funds for Doctors Without Borders.

The charm of Summer Games Done Quick, or SGDQ, lies in its diverse offerings. Are you a fan of JRPGs? There’s a run of Dragon Quest XI happening right now. Prefer the fast-paced action of platformers? A run of Super Mario Odyssey kicks off at 7:15 PM Eastern today. Looking to explore something off the beaten path? Check out Don’t Stop, Girlypop! And that’s just a taste of today’s lineup. You can map out your viewing schedule by checking the complete list of games. Personally, I’m excited for the Hollow Knight: Silksong run early Tuesday evening, the Mass Effect 3 run later in the week, and the grand finale, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

As you sift through the schedule for games that catch your eye, pay attention to the listed categories, as they might reveal unique ways the games are being played. I’ve seen my fair share of Kingdom Hearts runs over the years, but this time there’s a randomizer run of Kingdom Hearts II: Final Mix. I’m curious to see how that will unfold. Each Games Done Quick event also dedicates specific time slots to themed game blocks. This year features a “silly block” starting Thursday morning, where runners tackle quirky, delightfully janky games.

Ultimately, the best way to dive into any Games Done Quick event is to fire up the Twitch or YouTube livestream and let it play around the clock. The most entertaining runs often happen at odd hours with unusual games, creating memes and inside jokes that draw you into the vibrant community. In a time when finding positivity in the gaming world can be tough, Games Done Quick consistently reminds me that while the industry may have its issues, the community and the people within it are a source of unwavering support.