Gaming
Summer Games Done Quick 2025: Speedrunning for Charity with a Nintendo Switch 2 Debut

The annual Summer Games Done Quick (SGDQ) speedrunning marathon returns July 6–12, 2025, featuring a packed lineup of classic and modern games—including the first-ever GDQ appearance of Mario Kart World on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Key Highlights
1. Nintendo Switch 2 Makes Its GDQ Debut
- Game: Mario Kart World (Knockout Tour mode).
- Runner: Peas.
- Time: Saturday, July 12, 8:55 PM EDT (bonus game slot).
2. Nintendo-Heavy Lineup
- Zelda: Link’s Awakening DX, Majora’s Mask.
- Mario: Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario 64, Super Mario Bros. 3, Mario Paint, Super Mario Maker 2.
- Other: Donkey Kong Jungle Beat, Pokémon Sword & Shield, Tetris 99, Mario Kart: Super Circuit.
3. Must-Watch Non-Nintendo Runs
- Sonic the Hedgehog 2 – “All Emeralds Glitched” (SuperSonic).
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.
- Monster Hunter Wilds.
- Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep – “Critical Lvl 1 Any%” (4-player race).
- Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater – “European Extreme” (PC port).
- Balatro, Celeste, Avowed, Banjo-Kazooie.
Charity Focus: Doctors Without Borders
Like past GDQ events, SGDQ 2025 raises funds for Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières), which provides emergency medical aid in crisis zones.
Why This Matters
- Switch 2’s GDQ debut hints at Mario Kart World being a launch title (or early release).
- Nintendo dominance – Classic and modern games showcase speedrunning’s enduring appeal.
- Variety – From Tetris 99 to Avowed, there’s something for every gaming fan.
Final Thought
SGDQ 2025 blends cutting-edge tech (Switch 2!) with nostalgic favorites, all for a life-saving cause. Whether you’re here for the world-record attempts or the chaotic couch commentary, it’s a can’t-miss event for gamers.