The Summer Games Done Quick (SGDQ) is an annual charity event that takes place in July, raising funds for Doctors Without Borders. This year, the event will be held in Minnesota and will feature a variety of speedruns, showcasing both new and classic games. The highlight of the event is the debut of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a French RPG that will take the top spot, traditionally reserved for favorites like Super Metroid. This marks the game's second GDQ outing, following an any-percent race in the winter event.
What makes this year's SGDQ particularly fascinating is the diverse range of games that will be featured. Brand new hits like Pragmata, Saros, and Mouse: PI for Hire will be making their debut, while cult classics like Snowboard Kids and The Chaos Engine will finally get their due. The event will also feature comfort food for longtime viewers, including randomizer runs for The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and Kingdom Hearts 2, races for Spyro: Year of the Dragon, Wario World, and Mr. Bones, and kaizo runs for Mario, Hollow Knight, and Metroid. A 'garbage block' will be accented by the infamous Sonic Schoolhouse, Mega Man's DOS port, and Zelda: Wand of Gamelon for the Philips CD-i.
In my opinion, the growth of SGDQ has been remarkable, transforming from a technical performance event into a vaudeville-like show. The event has evolved to include science showcases, speedrunning dogs, and newer, less explored games. However, the growth has not been without complications, with cheating scandals, cultural growing pains, and safety concerns. The community-driven effort to make the event one of the most inclusively minded in gaming is commendable, and it is important to continue this effort to ensure that the event remains a positive and welcoming space for all.
One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of SGDQ in raising funds for charity. The event has raised millions of dollars for Doctors Without Borders, and it is a testament to the power of community and collaboration. The event's growth and evolution have been driven by the passion and dedication of the community, and it is a reminder that gaming can be a force for good.
In conclusion, the Summer Games Done Quick is an event that showcases the best of gaming, from speedruns to vaudeville-like performances. The event's growth and evolution have been remarkable, and it is a testament to the power of community and collaboration. The debut of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a highlight of the event, and it is a reminder that gaming can be a force for good. The event's inclusivity and focus on charity make it a must-watch for anyone who loves gaming and wants to make a positive impact.
