The onset of a new year heralds the return of a beloved tradition for gaming enthusiasts around the globe: the Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ) speedrunning marathon. Commencing on January 5th at 12 PM ET, and continuing through to January 12th, this annual event unites speedrunners and fans alike to raise funds for a cause far greater than the games themselves. The extraordinary spectacle, streamed live on the Games Done Quick Twitch channel, showcases the incredible skills of speedrunners who aim to complete games as quickly as possible, all while entertaining viewers and supporting charitable initiatives.
Exciting Events on the Horizon
Every year, gamers eagerly sift through the AGDQ schedule, marking their calendars for highly anticipated runs. This year, the lineup is impressively diverse. Among the standout events are a speedrun of **Astro Bot**, which has captivated audiences with its creative platforming mechanics. The highly competitive **Metroid Prime** race serves as a thrilling warm-up for fans eagerly awaiting the upcoming release of **Metroid Prime 4: Beyond**.
A nostalgic (and perhaps cringe-worthy) showcase of the notoriously difficult **Superman 64** promises to deliver comedic value, while hardcore RPG fans can look forward to an astonishing six-hour and fifteen-minute speedrun of **Final Fantasy VII Rebirth**. This speedrun is particularly remarkable given that many gamers spent significantly longer completing it at a casual pace. Adding a unique twist to the event, the iconic arcade game **Crazy Taxi** will feature live musical accompaniment, further enhancing the experience for viewers.
One of the remarkable aspects of AGDQ is its commitment to philanthropy. This year’s endeavor aims to raise funds for the **Prevent Cancer Foundation**, an organization dedicated to saving lives through cancer prevention and early detection. A noteworthy highlight is the previous year’s achievement, where AGDQ raised over $2.5 million for the charity. The enthusiasm generated around the event not only brings attention to the gaming community but also significantly impacts vital health initiatives.
What sets AGDQ apart is the sense of community it fosters. Gamers from different backgrounds unite, sharing their passion for speedrunning and raising money for a meaningful cause. Fans can engage with the marathon through live chats, donations, and by viewing runs on Games Done Quick’s YouTube channel post-event. Events like AGDQ showcase the potential of gaming as a platform for positive change, proving that passion and philanthropy can effectively coexist.
As the countdown to AGDQ 2024 continues, excitement levels are reaching a fever pitch. The marathon promises to be a testament to the incredible talent among speedrunners and their commitment to charitable causes. This year, prepare for thrilling runs, unexpected hilarity, and the joy of giving back in a dynamic way. Put on your gaming gear, gather your friends, and tune in for an unforgettable week of competition, camaraderie, and compassion.
Leave a Reply