Games Done Quick
Charity speedrun marathons
The bi-annual charity speedrunning marathons (AGDQ and SGDQ) that have raised tens of millions of dollars while showcasing the speedrunning community to mainstream audiences.
Overview
Games Done Quick (GDQ) is a series of charity speedrunning marathons that showcase speedruns of video games while raising money for charity. The two main events—Awesome Games Done Quick (January) and Summer Games Done Quick (July)—have raised over $40 million combined for organisations like Prevent Cancer Foundation and Doctors Without Borders.
Fast Facts
- Founded: 2010
- Events: AGDQ (January), SGDQ (July)
- Format: Week-long marathon
- Raised: $40+ million by 2023
- Viewership: Hundreds of thousands
Main Events
| Event | Timing | Charity |
|---|---|---|
| AGDQ | January | Prevent Cancer Foundation |
| SGDQ | July | Doctors Without Borders |
Event Format
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | ~7 days continuous |
| Games | 100+ speedruns |
| Commentary | Runners and couch guests |
| Donations | Real-time incentives |
Donation Incentives
GDQ drives donations through:
| Incentive | Example |
|---|---|
| Naming | Name characters in games |
| Choice | Which route to take |
| Bonus games | Unlock additional runs |
| Bids | Compete for naming rights |
Community Impact
GDQ achieved:
| Achievement | Significance |
|---|---|
| Mainstream exposure | Speedrunning goes viral |
| Charity record | Millions raised |
| Community growth | More runners, more games |
| Documentation | Techniques explained on stream |
Cultural Significance
GDQ legitimised speedrunning:
- Major streaming platform presence
- Media coverage
- Professional presentation
- Community celebration
Legacy
Games Done Quick transformed speedrunning from niche hobby to mainstream entertainment while raising tens of millions for charity. It proved that gaming communities could mobilise for good.