Speedrunning techniques for beginners
Speedrunning Techniques for Beginners
Speedrunning is an exciting and competitive way to engage with your favorite video games by completing them as quickly as possible. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated player, speedrunning can add a fresh perspective to your gaming experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore essential speedrunning techniques for beginners, helping you develop your skills and join this vibrant community.
What is Speedrunning?
Speedrunning is the act of playing through a video game in the shortest time possible, often using specific techniques and strategies. The community is known for its passionate players who share tips, record runs, and organize competitions. Speedruns can vary in style, including:
- Any%: Completing the game using any means necessary.
- 100%: Completing all objectives in a game.
- Glitchless: Finishing the game without utilizing glitches.
Essential Speedrunning Techniques for Beginners
As you embark on your speedrunning journey, several key techniques can help you increase your chances of success. Here are some of the most important speedrunning techniques to master:
1. Game Knowledge and Routing
The foundation of speedrunning is in-depth knowledge of the game you are running. Start by playing through the game casually before attempting speedrun strategies. Take notes on:
- Level layouts
- Enemy placements
- Puzzle solutions
This will help you create a run route that minimizes time spent on unnecessary tasks.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice
Speedrunning is all about practice. Spend time refining each segment of your run. Use save states or checkpoints to practice difficult sections repeatedly. Consider these tips:
- Break the game into segments and practice them individually.
- Use timing software, like LiveSplit, to track your run.
3. Techniques and Tricks
Many games have specific techniques that speedrunners use to save time. For beginners, learning a few basic tricks can significantly improve your run. Examples include:
- Wall Clipping: A technique where players can clip through walls to skip sections.
- Boosting: Using items or mechanics in the game to gain extra speed.
4. Watching and Learning from Others
One of the best ways to learn is by watching experienced speedrunners. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube feature a plethora of walkthroughs and tutorials:
- Watch full runs for game strategies.
- Join community forums to ask questions and gather tips.
The Benefits of Speedrunning
Participating in speedrunning comes with numerous benefits:
- Enhanced gaming skills: You will learn to master mechanics and controls.
- Community connections: The speedrunning community is vast and welcoming.
- Personal achievement: Completing speedruns can be highly satisfying and improve your focus and determination.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Speedrunners
Here are some practical tips to enhance your speedrunning experience:
- Choose a game you love. You’ll be more motivated to practice.
- Set realistic goals when starting. Beat your personal best before challenging others.
- Participate in community events like AGDQ or SGDQ for inspiration.
First-Hand Experience: Learning Speedrunning
As a beginner, I started speedrunning after watching a friend partake in a stream. Initially, the concept seemed daunting, but I fell in love with the thrill of time trials. I quickly learned:
- The importance of mastering controls.
- How strategy and routing can drastically change my run.
After a few weeks of practice sessions, my times improved. I even entered a local competition, where I met others who shared my passion!
Case Study: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
One of the most popular speedrunning games today is The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It combines elements of exploration and combat. New speedrunners can follow these basic strategies:
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Clip through walls | Use specific areas to clip through and skip sections. |
| Fast travel | Utilize the map to instantly travel to areas. |
| Enemy manipulation | Avoid or manipulate enemies for a quicker run. |
Conclusion
Speedrunning is an enriching and rewarding way to engage with video games. By mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to achieving impressive times. Remember, the most important part of speedrunning is to enjoy yourself and connect with other enthusiasts in the community. So grab your controller, choose your game, and start your speedrunning journey today!
