Speedrunning RPGs: Battling through Lengthy Games

5 January 2026

Let’s face it—role-playing games (RPGs) are time-devouring monsters. They’re brimming with enchanting worlds, sprawling narratives, and more NPCs than you can shake a sword at. But what if I told you there’s an adrenaline-fueled way to crush these games without dedicating 300 hours of your life? Enter the wild world of speedrunning RPGs—a practice where you skip the small talk (literally) and aim for the fastest completion time possible.

Sound crazy? It kind of is. But for those who love a challenge, speedrunning opens up an entirely new way to experience these massive games. So grab your potions, dust off your controller, and let’s dive headfirst into the high-octane, no-time-to-waste universe of RPG speedrunning.

What Exactly Is Speedrunning?

Before we start, let’s clear up the basics. Speedrunning is the art—and yes, it’s absolutely an art—of completing a game as fast as humanly (or superhumanly) possible. It’s like the Olympics for gamers. Athletes have track and field; we have glitching through walls and skipping entire levels.

Speedrunners don’t just play the game; they break it. They exploit bugs, master frame-perfect tricks, and sometimes even manipulate random chance to shave precious seconds off their runs. It’s not about playing the game "correctly"—it’s about bending the rules until they snap.

Now, take all of that madness and apply it to RPGs. You know, those games with 100-hour campaigns, side quests, and unskippable cutscenes? Yep. People are out here speedrunning those. Wild, right?

Why Speedrun RPGs?

You might be wondering, “Why would anyone put themselves through this madness?” Well, why climb Mount Everest? For the challenge! Speedrunning RPGs isn’t just about finishing faster—it’s about problem-solving, creativity, and testing your limits. Plus, it’s oddly satisfying to blaze through a game that’s designed to chew up an entire month of your life.

It’s like hacking the system. You’re not just playing the game—you’re outsmarting it. RPG speedrunning scratches that itch for gamers who love to dive deep into mechanics, discover hidden shortcuts, and show off to an audience that appreciates their wizardry. It’s a niche hobby, sure, but it’s also one heck of a ride.

The Challenges of Speedrunning RPGs

Okay, so speedrunning RPGs sounds fun and all. But let’s not sugarcoat it—it’s not easy. In fact, it can feel like trying to drive a car while simultaneously assembling Ikea furniture.

1. Lengthy Campaigns

Here’s the thing: RPGs are long. Like, “Do I even have a social life anymore?” long. Even in a speedrun, shaving tens of hours down to a few still requires serious time commitment. Games like Final Fantasy VII or The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim aren’t exactly known for their brevity.

2. Complex Mechanics

RPGs are often more complex than your average platformer. You’re juggling stats, inventory, combat strategies, and dialogue options. And if you’re aiming for a world record, you have to know the game inside and out. It’s not just about being fast—it’s about making split-second decisions.

3. RNG (Random Number Generator)

Ah, RNG—the bane of every speedrunner’s existence. Many RPGs rely on randomized elements like enemy encounters or loot drops. Speedrunners have to find ways to manipulate or mitigate RNG, often with mind-blowingly clever strategies.

4. Unskippable Cutscenes

You know what no one wants during a speedrun? A 10-minute monologue about the power of friendship. Unfortunately, some RPGs are notorious for unskippable cutscenes. Speedrunners have to grin and bear it, all while silently screaming at their screens.

Popular RPGs for Speedrunning

So, which RPGs are speedrunning goldmines? Here are a few that have captivated the community:

1. Final Fantasy Series

The Final Fantasy games, particularly Final Fantasy VII, are speedrunning staples. This series is known for its epic stories, turn-based battles, and—of course—tons of glitches waiting to be exploited.

2. Chrono Trigger

This classic RPG is a fan favorite for speedrunning thanks to its relatively short campaign (by RPG standards) and multiple endings. Plus, who doesn’t love time travel?

3. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Ah, Skyrim. The land of dragons, shouting, and... speedrunners flying across the map using buckets? Yes, really. Skyrim speedruns are chaotic in the best way possible.

4. Pokémon Games

Catching ‘em all? Nah. Speedrunners are all about beating ‘em all as fast as possible. Pokémon games offer plenty of opportunities for creative routing and RNG manipulation.

5. Dark Souls Series

While technically more action-RPG than traditional RPG, the Dark Souls games have a thriving speedrunning community. Watching someone obliterate these notoriously difficult games in record time is nothing short of jaw-dropping.

Tips for Getting Started with RPG Speedrunning

If all this talk about speedrunning has you itching to give it a try, here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you get started:

1. Start Small

If you’re new to speedrunning, don’t jump straight into a monster like The Witcher 3. Pick a shorter RPG or one you’re already familiar with. Baby steps, folks.

2. Study the Pros

The speedrunning community is super welcoming, and there are tons of resources out there. Watch videos of top-tier runs on platforms like YouTube or Twitch. Pay attention to the tricks and strategies they use.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

Speedrunning isn’t just about playing fast—it’s about playing smart. Practice sections of the game over and over until you’ve perfected your route. Muscle memory is your best friend.

4. Join the Community

Most games have dedicated speedrunning communities where you can find guides, tips, and maybe even make a few friends. Check out websites like Speedrun.com to connect with other runners.

5. Be Patient

Let’s be real—you’re not going to set a world record on your first run. Or your second. Or your fifty-seventh. And that’s okay. Speedrunning is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

The Thrill of the Chase

Speedrunning RPGs is a wild, exhilarating ride. It’s like being in a high-speed car chase, but the car is your favorite game, and the only thing you’re chasing is the clock. Sure, it’s not for everyone. But for those who crave a challenge, it’s an unforgettable experience.

So, the next time you’re staring down a 60-hour RPG and wondering how you’ll ever find the time to finish it, consider giving speedrunning a shot. Who knows? You might just find a new favorite hobby—and maybe even set a record or two.

Final Thoughts: Is Speedrunning RPGs for You?

If you’re someone who loves dissecting games, finding hidden shortcuts, and pushing yourself to the limit, RPG speedrunning might just be your jam. Sure, it’s a bit like sprinting through a buffet rather than savoring each dish—but sometimes, you just want to see how fast you can pile that plate.

Take your time (ironically) to learn the ropes, connect with the community, and have fun. Because at the end of the day, speedrunning isn’t just about the clock—it’s about the thrill of mastering something you love.