As the calendar flips to a new year, gamers and speedrunning enthusiasts alike gear up for one of the most thrilling spectacles in the gaming community: Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ). This annual marathon not only showcases incredible gaming talent but also serves a noble purpose, raising funds for charitable causes. Kicking off on January 5th at 12 PM ET, AGDQ promises a week filled with exhilarating gameplay and heartwarming donations that can make a tangible difference in the fight against cancer.
Scheduled to run until the early hours of January 12th, AGDQ features a plethora of speedruns across various games, each accompanied by live commentary. Fans can catch every exhilarating moment live on the Games Done Quick Twitch channel, and all runs are subsequently uploaded to their YouTube channel for later viewing. This format not only ensures maximum accessibility for viewers but also cultivates a sense of community as fans rally around their favorite games and runners.
The lineup for AGDQ 2023 is nothing short of impressive, featuring a mix of beloved classics and quirky niche titles. Among the highly anticipated runs are a speedrun of Astro Bot, an indie darling known for its innovative use of PlayStation VR; a competitive race in Metroid Prime, which is perfectly timed to generate buzz for the upcoming Metroid Prime 4; and the infamous Superman 64, often cited as one of the worst games ever made. The variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether a hardcore speedrunner or a casual viewer.
Additionally, one intriguing segment features a six-hour and fifteen-minute speedrun of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. For context, completing the game as a regular player can take around ten times that length, showcasing the extraordinary skills of the speedrunners involved. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, a Crazy Taxi performance accompanied by a live band promises to elevate the entertainment factor to new heights.
Championing a Good Cause
Beyond the thrill of speedrunning, AGDQ is firmly rooted in philanthropy. This year, the event aims to raise funds for the Prevent Cancer Foundation, an organization dedicated to cancer prevention and early detection. Last year’s AGDQ raised an impressive $2.5 million, demonstrating the power of community engagement through gaming. As viewers cheer on their favorite players, they are also contributing to a cause that affects millions worldwide.
As the excitement builds for AGDQ, it is clear that this event transcends mere gaming. It is a celebration of skill, passion, and community spirit—all while supporting a vital cause. Whether you are a hardcore gamer or someone who simply enjoys watching impressive feats of dexterity and strategy, AGDQ 2023 invites everyone to tune in, donate, and be part of something special. Mark your calendars and prepare for a week filled with remarkable runs and the chance to make a real difference in the fight against cancer.