Speedrunning has transformed the way gamers experience their favorite titles. What was once about simply finishing a game has evolved into a competitive, creative, and highly technical pursuit. Speedrunning this game for the first time is both exhilarating and intimidating, especially if you are new to the concept. Whether you are a casual player curious about beating the clock or an aspiring speedrunner aiming for leaderboard glory, your first attempt is a journey filled with discovery, mistakes, and unforgettable moments.
In this article, we’ll explore what it means to speedrun a game for the first time, how to prepare, common challenges beginners face, and why your first speedrun is often the most rewarding experience of all.
What Is Speedrunning?
Speedrunning is the act of completing a video game—or a specific portion of it—as quickly as possible. Players use optimized routes, advanced techniques, and deep knowledge of game mechanics to shave seconds (or even milliseconds) off their time.
There are many speedrunning categories, including:
- Any% – Finish the game as fast as possible using any available methods
- 100% – Complete all objectives, collectibles, or achievements
- Glitchless – Finish the game without exploiting glitches
- Low% – Complete the game with minimal items or upgrades
For beginners, Any% is often the most accessible starting point when speedrunning a game for the first time.
Why Speedrunning a Game for the First Time Is So Exciting
Your first speedrun is unlike any other gaming experience. You are not just playing—you are learning, experimenting, and constantly improving.
1. Seeing the Game in a New Way
Speedrunning forces you to rethink everything you know about a game. Levels you once explored slowly are now puzzles to be solved efficiently. Cutscenes become obstacles, and mechanics you ignored suddenly matter.
2. The Thrill of Beating Your Own Time
Even if you are nowhere near world-record pace, every improvement feels like a victory. Dropping your completion time by even a minute can be incredibly satisfying.
3. Joining a Passionate Community
Speedrunning communities are often welcoming and supportive. Watching other runners, sharing strategies, and celebrating personal bests (PBs) creates a sense of belonging.
Preparing to Speedrun This Game for the First Time
Before starting your first speedrun, a bit of preparation goes a long way. You don’t need perfection—just a foundation.
Learn the Basics of the Game
If you haven’t finished the game casually, do that first. Understanding the story, levels, and mechanics will make learning speedrun strategies much easier.
Choose the Right Category
For your first run, keep it simple:
- Any%
- Easy or normal difficulty
- No advanced glitches
This reduces frustration and allows you to focus on completing the run.
Watch Beginner Speedruns
Search for beginner-friendly guides or runs. Many experienced runners create tutorials specifically for first-time speedrunners, explaining routes and basic tricks.
Starting Your First Speedrun
The moment you hit “New Game” and start the timer is unforgettable.
Don’t Worry About the Clock Too Much
Ironically, focusing too much on speed can slow you down. Your goal in the first run is completion, not perfection.
Expect Mistakes
You will:
- Miss jumps
- Forget routes
- Panic under pressure
This is completely normal. Every mistake is a learning opportunity.
Finish the Run No Matter What
Even if your run feels “bad,” finishing it gives you a baseline time. That first completed speedrun is a milestone worth celebrating.
Common Challenges When Speedrunning for the First Time
Execution Pressure
Playing fast creates pressure you don’t feel in casual play. Simple actions suddenly become harder when you know every second counts.
Route Memorization
Remembering where to go, what to skip, and what to collect can be overwhelming at first. Writing notes or using a checklist can help.
Consistency Issues
Beginners often struggle with consistency. One run might feel great, while the next falls apart early. This is part of the process.
How to Improve After Your First Speedrun
Once your first run is complete, improvement becomes addictive.
Analyze Your Run
Ask yourself:
- Where did I lose the most time?
- What mistakes happened repeatedly?
- Which sections felt the hardest?
Even small insights can lead to big improvements.
Practice Specific Sections
Instead of replaying the whole game every time, practice individual levels or bosses. Many speedrunners use save files or practice modes for this purpose.
Learn One New Trick at a Time
Avoid trying to learn everything at once. Mastering one shortcut or technique can significantly reduce your time.
The Mental Side of Speedrunning
Speedrunning this game for the first time isn’t just about mechanics—it’s also a mental challenge.
Patience Is Key
Progress is rarely linear. Some days you’ll improve rapidly; other days you’ll feel stuck. Patience keeps you moving forward.
Avoid Comparing Yourself to Top Runners
World-record holders have thousands of hours of practice. Focus on your own improvement, not someone else’s highlight reel.
Celebrate Personal Bests
Every PB matters, whether it’s seconds or minutes faster. These milestones keep motivation high.
Equipment and Tools for Beginner Speedrunners
You don’t need expensive gear to start speedrunning.
Basic Requirements
- A stable gaming platform (PC or console)
- A timer (many runners use free software like LiveSplit)
- Optional recording software to review runs
Optional Upgrades
- Controller or keyboard you’re comfortable with
- Headset for focus or music
- Second monitor for guides or splits
Start simple and upgrade only if you feel the need.
Why Your First Speedrun Will Always Matter
No matter how much you improve, your first speedrun will always be special. It represents:
- The moment you stepped outside casual play
- The beginning of a new way to enjoy games
- Proof that improvement comes from trying
Many experienced speedrunners look back fondly on their first messy, slow, but passionate runs.
Is Speedrunning Worth It for Casual Players?
Absolutely. You don’t need to chase records to enjoy speedrunning. Many players speedrun casually, aiming only to beat their own times or explore new strategies.
Speedrunning:
- Extends the life of a game
- Builds problem-solving skills
- Makes replaying games exciting again
Even a single speedrun can change how you view gaming.
Final Thoughts on Speedrunning This Game for the First Time
Speedrunning this game for the first time is a bold and rewarding challenge. It pushes you to learn, adapt, and improve in ways traditional gameplay never does. You’ll fail, succeed, laugh at mistakes, and feel incredible pride when the final time appears on the screen.
Whether you continue speedrunning for months or stop after one run, the experience itself is worth it. The moment you press start and race against the clock, you become part of a passionate gaming tradition that values creativity, dedication, and self-improvement.
So take a deep breath, start the timer, and enjoy the run. Your first speedrun is just the beginning.