25 games that you can quickly learn to speedrun

There is no better way to impress gaming enthusiasts than blazing through one of their favorite games at record speed. Whether it's a complex role-playing game, a pixel-perfect platformer, or an RNG-dependent rogue-lite, almost every game has at least one documented speedrun attempt. It's not surprising to witness this phenomenon, as speedrunning brings forth a certain fascination and satisfaction that is rarely achieved. It instills a sense of conquering a video game in a completely novel (and often exclusive) manner. It's like a game within a game; except it's a very, very challenging one...

However, which games are best suited for beginners? Professional speedrunners often suggest that players start with a game they already love. Yet, continuously repeating the same game can undoubtedly become monotonous. On the other hand, these titles should serve as good starting points for those who either wish to delve into the speedrunning scene or simply hope to impress a few friends. So, which are the best speedrunning games?

Updated on September 4, 2023, by Mark Sammut: Speedrunning has been popular for decades and has now established a dedicated scene, competitions, and databases. There is no better demonstration of a player's expertise than completing a speedrun that ranks among the world's fastest, and platforms like speedrun.com preserve this data. Therefore, this article has been updated to highlight users with the current fastest times (in specific categories).

25 The King's Bird

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	42m 53s 196ms
Player	Molentum
Speedrun Platform	PC

This platformer by Serenity Forge may not be on the radar for many, but it proves to be an underrated choice for speedrunning. That's due to its smooth movement and accessible controls in this side-scrolling game, which feel somewhat reminiscent of a slightly more moderate version of Sonic.

Players will race, fly, and glide through a variety of lush, silhouetted locations, utilizing the dash move as their primary weapon and means of transportation. The King's Bird keeps hazards and enemies to a minimum, making it a fantastic speedrunning option for beginners. Instead, the game emphasizes speed, momentum, and precision to navigate each area. As it becomes increasingly challenging, this immersive journey provides quick replays for ample practice through trial and error.

24 Untitled Goose Game

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	2m 04s
Player	Hypaws
Speedrun Platform	PC

This wacky outing from House House is renowned for its amusing premise of "tormenting people as a mischievous goose," as well as its unique puzzle-stealth gameplay.

While it may not be the most thrilling or intriguing endeavor to wander around as a honking bird and reach the end within a few minutes, it is certainly one of the easier games for an Any% speedrun.

The game allows players to bypass certain barriers by simply holding a boot (and later, delicate porcelain) in their beak, dropping it, and quickly picking it up again while "slipping through" certain objects. When executed correctly, the goose can lay its beak (or rather, its hands) on the coveted bell and swiftly return it to its nest in just a matter of minutes.

23 Super Mario 64

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - 120 stars.	1h 37m 35s
Player	Weegee
Speedrun Platform	Nintendo 64

One of the most popular games for both professionals and newcomers alike, Super Mario 64, proved to be an excellent option for speedruns shortly after its introduction. Many continue to pursue their own attempts in this enchanting 3D platformer, and in fact, a new record (without collecting stars) was recently set by YouTube user Kanno.

The element that can be exploited for a great Any% speedrun can be conveniently reached right at the beginning of the game by having Mario perform a fancy combination move called a backward long jump in Peach's Castle. When executed at the correct spot, the plumber will glitch through walls and practically shoot himself into the hallway that leads to the first Bowser stage. Mario will then obtain a key and only have to complete a few more sections.

However, the practical aspect of this game is that the star-collecting system allows for multiple "levels" of speedrunning, each with its own challenges and difficulties, allowing players to choose the route that suits them best.

22 Celeste

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	25m 19s 919ms
Player	secureaccount
Speedrun Platform	PC

Developed in 2018 by Matt Makes Games, Celeste quickly became a hit with its charming retro style and extremely challenging platforming trials. However, while this unforgiving and perilous journey is sure to evoke frustration, the heartfelt and melancholic story can elicit its own emotional response, capable of bringing tears.

The intensity of this vibrant, metaphorical game mirrors the anxious motives of the downtrodden heroine who must overcome her depression and anxiety by literally surmounting obstacles constantly thrown at her. While this highly challenging test of mind and emotions may leave some speedrunners tearing their hair out, the frantic pace and quick retries make the game quick to learn and conquer once someone is willing to triumph.

21 Pokemon Snap

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	20m 32s 467ms
Player	gunlap
Speedrun Platform	Nintendo 64

This game is extremely unique both as a speedrunning option and as a complete game. Described as a "first-person photography game" or perhaps more accurately as a "passive rail shooter," Pokemon Snap allows players to sit back and enjoy the ride while examining and capturing Oak-approved photos of Pokémon in their best form.

This journey to admire Pokémon unfolds entirely (and quite literally) on rails, which lends a soothing simplicity to the speedrunning challenge as the game restricts deviating from the predetermined path and thus eliminates the possibility of failure. The major factors, however, are the low level of danger and the impossibility of dying, which reduces concerns about retries. Just a few shortcuts and tricks here and there—such as avoiding camera movements and maximizing points for photos—provide even newcomers with the opportunity to reach the finish line swiftly.

20 Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - Any% (Alucard)	15m 38s 983ms
Player	Dr4gonBlitz
Speedrun Platform	Xbox 360

This fan-favorite version of the classic horror combat game is perfect for Any% speedruns, as the core content is actually quite short while the gameplay and mechanics are complex enough to be exploited. There are also a number of tricks that players can use, which are fairly easy to understand.

This version of the classic horror combat game, loved by fans, is excellent for Any% speedruns because the core content is actually quite short, while the gameplay and mechanics are complex enough to be exploited. There are also a variety of tricks that players can utilize, which are fairly easy to understand.

19 Streets Of Rage

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - Normal (Blaze)	25m 09s
Player	Kendoelduro
Speedrun Platform	Genesis

Due to the short length of this Genesis classic and its (quite literally) straightforward nature, Streets of Rage serves as an enticing speedrunning game for beginners. Although it is by no means easy, the game is more forgiving compared to other entries in the series and also offers a limited range of moves that are relatively easy to learn.

Of course, it doesn't hurt that this "91 outing, despite the competition from Streets of Rage 4, remains one of the most renowned beat 'em ups to this day.

18 Undertale

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	52m 11s 433ms
Player	mrlink2k
Speedrun Platform	Linux

Although subtly filled with depth, this role-playing game is simultaneously minimalist and straightforward in terms of both art style and gameplay. The game follows the retro principle of turn-based combat, reminiscent of EarthBound and old Dragon Quest, although developer Toby Fox introduces new concepts with timing-centered combat and unconventional mechanics.

While the main campaign can take about seven hours, some speedrunners have completed this colorful journey in less than an hour. Since its release in 2015, Undertale's uniquely charming style and its wild combat system have earned it cult status among players.

17 Super Mario Odyssey

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	56m 40s
Player	Tyron18
Speedrun Platform	Digital

Completionists are aware that this epic Mario adventure is anything but small, as it is filled with dense locations to explore and countless Power Moons to collect. However, similar to the 3D Mario outings that preceded it, it is much faster and easier to complete the main campaign of Odyssey.

Powerful power-ups, shortcuts, and the ability to purchase a variety of Power Moons allow players to complete the game in just a few hours or less. It also helps that the seamless open worlds enable players to snatch multiple Moons at once, minimizing loading screens and traversing the game world. Those who know where to find some of the collectibles will be able to play through the game relatively quickly. These features make Super Mario Odyssey an Any% favorite for many.

16 Donkey Kong Country

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - All Levels	30m 40s
Player	lovebird920
Speedrun Platform	SNES

Simple, beginner-friendly speedrunning certainly doesn't apply to the sequels of Rare and Retro's Donkey Kong Country. However, when it comes to the fantastic platformer that started it all, the situation is quite different. Not only is the game more forgiving, but there are also several shortcuts involving barrels and other secret discoveries.

With solid mechanics, few collectibles (yes, that was Rare in the early days), and a smooth flow and pace of the game, Donkey Kong Country is an appealing option for novice speedrunners.

15 Super Mario Maker 2

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - Story Mode (Any%)	1h 38m 48s
Player	IamUncleSlam
Speedrun Platform	Switch

At first glance, this platformer may seem like something for children, but Super Mario Maker 2 has the same level of difficulty as any other Mario platformer. Potential speedrunners simply need to learn the basics of each game mode instead of dealing with some of the more complex glitches found in other games. There are even guides available for players who want to speedrun the Story Mode.

Setting records on custom levels is where the real fun begins. Player profiles keep track of how many courses they hold world records in, and top players like PangeaPanga and LilKirbs are constantly stealing records from each other. The ability to showcase these speedrunning achievements with just a click makes it easy to show off these records.

14 Limbo

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - Normal Course	39m 23s
Player	par_h3lion
Speedrun Platform	PC

An indie darling from 2010, Limbo is a hauntingly atmospheric indie game that challenges a player's puzzle-solving abilities as much as their platforming skills. It takes only two or three hours to complete this excellent platformer on the first playthrough, and even amateur speedrunners can accomplish it in less than an hour.

Available on Steam for just a few dollars and playable on even the weakest PCs, Limbo is easily accessible and fairly straightforward for those looking to optimize their runs. It shouldn't take long to get the hang of it and achieve a respectable time.

13 Nova The Squirrel

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	15m 27s
Player	Polari
Speedrun Platform	NES

One of the most challenging hurdles when getting into speedrunning can be purchasing a game, especially for aspiring speedrunners with a limited budget. So why not download a self-developed game that is not only free but also looks great once mastered? Nova the Squirrel is an indie platform game developed for the NES and can be played using an emulator.

The game shares similarities with Kirby, where the player can copy abilities. Certain abilities, such as the hamburger and the refrigerator, can help players cut through and skip entire sections of the levels. The game was featured once at Fleet Fatales, a speedrunning event exclusively for women organized by Games Done Quick. If the top runners in the industry have showcased speedruns for this title, it's definitely worth a try.

12 Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - Single segment.	14m 46s 480ms
Player	Summoningsalt
Speedrun Platform	NES

At first glance, this may seem like a strange choice, but the NES classic Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! typically offers a strangely captivating speedrunning experience. As a fighter in a non-traditional sense, speedrunning Punch-Out feels more like DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) than something like Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter. Some pros are so familiar with the button combinations that they can literally play through the game blindfolded.

Unlike most speedrunning tactics, Punch-Out does not rely on frame-perfect inputs or unreasonably specific exploits. Instead, it's about the player's knowledge of proper timing, and an experienced pro can complete this title in less than twenty minutes. Some players can even play the game blindfolded, but we recommend that more for the experts.

11 Portal

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - Out of bounds.	5m 50s 340ms
Player	Sarahspeedrun
Speedrun Platform	PC

The legendary puzzle game Portal from 2007 isn't very long to begin with - new players can probably complete it in an hour or two - but speedrunners have managed to shorten that time to less than ten minutes. Full of exploits and glitches, including out-of-bounds tricks, Portal serves as a great introduction for those interested in Any% speedrunning.

Portal's level selection makes it easy for speedrunners to practice every part of their run without having to play through the entire game, and it's an accessible game with a great community. Even a slow speedrun will impress those unfamiliar with the game, and it's a great way to look like a pro without having to invest a lot of effort.

10 Night In The Woods

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	1h 50m 27s
Player	Granolant
Speedrun Platform	PC

At first glance, "Night in the Woods" may not seem like a good game for speedruns. However, beneath the surface lies a game with routes to memorize, perfect movement options (can players say "wave dash"?), and an enchanting story that can be rushed through.

There are guides on how to play the game and a speedrun that was featured at Power Up With Pride, with commentary from the game developers. This game, where players can spend countless hours exploring, can be completed in less than two hours by simply memorizing the best route.

9 Mirror's Edge

Current Fastest Speedrun (In-Game Time) – Any%	26m 39s
Player	-Phoenix-
Speedrun Platform	PC

Mirror's Edge was one of the most experimental games ever developed by DICE. While its 2016 sequel was not particularly well-received, the original remains a speedrunning spectacle that will continue to impress fans for many years.

Although the tactics are not particularly easy to learn, Mirror's Edge speedruns are truly impressive to watch; they just look so cool. Similar to Portal, it is possible to access any level through a level selection, and the game divides its levels with checkpoints and records a player's overall time. As a game essentially designed for speedruns, Mirror's Edge is definitely one to check out if you're interested in speedrunning.

8 Pokemon Red & Blue

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - Any% no glitches.	1h 44m 03s
Player	pokeguy
Speedrun Platform	GBI

Speedrun players should not attempt to complete a full run of Pokémon Red and Blue. In fact, one of the fastest ways to finish these games could be visually impressive in a "What just happened?" kind of way. Tell someone in a room that this Game Boy RPG can be beaten in less than two minutes, and their eyebrows will shoot up to the ceiling.

It's relatively easy to learn an Any% speedrun of these games since there's no need to catch strong Pokémon. All players need to do is follow the available guides online and glitch the game so much that even MissingNo. would be proud.

7 Cookie Clicker

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - 1 million cookies.	6m 50s
Player	Furioso_Melodia
Speedrun Platform	Web

Cookie Clicker was one of the most sought-after games of 2013 and remains highly popular even a decade later. It is arguably the most famous idle game of all time and has now enabled its creator to develop games full-time. Cookie Clicker is a serious (cookie) business.

As a result, the game has gained a lot of recognition for anyone showcasing the speedrun, but why is it impressive? Ask someone how long it takes to reach 1 million cookies in the game, and the answer will likely be hours, if not days. An experienced speedrunner can achieve it in less than seven minutes. There is also an active and vibrant community dedicated to running the game, with a dedicated calculator to design routes and find ways to shorten times.

6 The Binding Of Isaac: Rebirth

Current fastest speedrun (in-game time) - 7 characters.	1h 25m 50s
Player	Dea1h
Speedrun Platform	PC

The iconic rogue-lite game "The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth" is both the best and the worst game for speedruns. The game can be beaten in about four minutes, but it is also heavily dependent on random generation, which means that some runs can be completely ruined for a player without it being their fault.

The iconic rogue-lite game "The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth" is both the best and the worst game for speedruns. The game can be beaten in about four minutes, but it is also heavily dependent on random generation, which means that some runs can be completely ruined for a player without it being their fault.