Speedrunning events like Games Done Quick offer significant speedrunning benefits for indie games, providing a crucial platform for visibility in a crowded market. For independent game developers, the journey from concept to launch is fraught with challenges, not least of which is getting their creations noticed by a wider audience. These charity-driven spectacles, which bring together skilled players to complete games as quickly as possible, have become an invaluable showcase, exposing tens of thousands of viewers to hidden gems and emerging titles that might otherwise remain obscure. The exposure gained through such events can translate directly into increased sales, wishlists, and overall recognition for small studios and solo developers.
Ceroro, the developer behind “Bat to the Heavens,” a unique platformer, experienced this firsthand. After her game was featured during Awesome Games Done Quick 2026, she observed a substantial surge in sales and wishlists, comparable only to the initial launch period. This phenomenon underscores the power of a dedicated, engaged audience watching games being pushed to their limits by expert players. It’s a form of organic marketing that money often can’t buy, proving the tangible speedrunning benefits for indie games are real.
What is Games Done Quick? Games Done Quick (GDQ) is a biannual charity speedrunning marathon where expert players complete video games rapidly for live audiences, raising millions for organizations like the Prevent Cancer Foundation and Doctors Without Borders while showcasing both popular and obscure titles.
Darya Noghani, the solo developer of “Small Saga,” a turn-based RPG, also noted a significant uptick in attention following its GDQ feature. Streamers picked up the game on Twitch, community members recommended it on platforms like Bluesky, and sales saw a healthy boost. This demonstrates how a single event can ripple through various online communities, amplifying a game’s presence and helping with indie game promotion.
However, the spotlight of a speedrunning event can also present unique challenges. Developers often face a degree of apprehension, knowing that speedrunners intentionally exploit glitches and employ unconventional techniques to bypass large sections of gameplay. This might, in some cases, present a less-than-ideal version of their meticulously crafted game to viewers. The risk of a game crashing during a live run is a constant worry, highlighting the fine line between showcasing skill and potentially exposing vulnerabilities in the game’s code.
Despite these concerns, many developers view the process positively. Ceroro noted that while “Bat to the Heavens” didn’t rely heavily on glitches in its speedrun, many of the extreme movements and techniques used were well within the intended design space of the game. For some, exploits and glitches are seen as an intrinsic part of game design, tapping into the creative ways players interact with and bend the rules of a game world. This dynamic relationship between player and developer is a core part of the speedrunning culture.
Furthermore, developers often find that speedruns, due to their rapid pace, don’t necessarily spoil the game for potential new players. The sheer speed of a run, as Ceroro explained, often means viewers don’t get a full understanding of the game’s depth or how it truly feels to play, leaving plenty of surprises for those who decide to purchase it. This ensures that the promotional aspect remains intact without detracting from the player experience.
Beyond the commercial gains, the personal achievement of having a game featured at GDQ is profoundly significant for developers. As Xalavier Nelson Jr. of Strange Scaffold articulated, the congratulations received for appearing on Games Done Quick are comparable to major life milestones. It’s a testament to the event’s revered status and its cultivation of an uplifting and inclusive community, which extends beyond players to embrace the creators themselves.
Games Done Quick has cultivated a deeply beloved community within the online gaming world. Their commitment to diversity and inclusion, through various smaller events highlighting marginalized streamers, fosters an environment where positive social messages are met with enthusiastic support. This vibrant, supportive atmosphere enhances the overall experience for developers and viewers alike, cementing the event’s role as a vital touchstone for indie game promotion and community building.
Ultimately, the speedrunning benefits for indie games are multifaceted, extending from direct sales boosts and increased visibility to invaluable community recognition and a unique platform for showcasing innovative gameplay. These events are not just about speed; they are about fostering a thriving ecosystem where small games can shine and developers can connect with a passionate audience ready to discover their next favorite title.
