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Games Done Quick: A Beacon of Hope for the Gaming Community

Games Done Quick, a speedrun marathon, has raised over $62m for charity and provides a safe space for marginalized gamers and indie developers.

Published 2026-08-20
Games Done Quick, a speedrun marathon, has raised over $62m for charity and provides a safe space for marginalized gamers...

The gaming industry has faced a tumultuous year, with layoffs, studio closures, and console wars dominating the headlines. However, amidst the chaos, Games Done Quick (GDQ) has emerged as a shining example of the industry's potential for good. This speedrun marathon, which takes place twice a year, has raised over $62m for charity since its inception in 2010.

Charity and Fundraising

GDQ's main events, Awesome Games Done Quick and Summer Games Done Quick, have become a staple of the gaming calendar, with thousands of viewers tuning in to watch speedrunners tackle some of the toughest games out there. The event has raised millions for charities such as Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières and the Prevent Cancer Foundation. In fact, the single largest amount ever raised by a single GDQ event is $3,416,729, achieved by Awesome Games Done Quick 2022 Online.

The event provides a safe space for marginalized gamers, including trans individuals, to come together and share their passion for gaming. The event's organizers have implemented a strict set of rules to ensure that all attendees feel welcome and included, and the community has responded in kind. The event has become a haven for speedrunners, with many attendees and viewers praising the sense of safety and intimacy that it provides.

Impact on Indie Developers

GDQ has also had a significant impact on indie game developers. The event has featured a number of indie games over the years, including Small Saga and Bat to the Heavens, and has helped to boost their sales and visibility. In fact, the developer of Bat to the Heavens, Ceroro, has credited GDQ with a significant increase in sales and wishlists after the game was featured at the event.

The following table shows the impact of GDQ on some of the indie games that have been featured at the event:

As GDQ continues to grow and evolve, its organizers are committed to maintaining the event's sense of community and inclusivity. With its unique blend of charity, community, and gaming, GDQ is an event that is truly making a difference in the world. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking for a way to give back, GDQ is an event that is definitely worth checking out.

Source: Eurogamer