Why AGDQ 2023 Went Online: A Deep Dive into the Decision
The 2023 edition of Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ), the highly anticipated speedrunning charity marathon, made headlines not just for its incredible gameplay and fundraising efforts, but also for its significant shift to an online-only format. The decision to forgo an in-person event, originally planned for Orlando, Florida, stemmed from a confluence of concerns primarily centered around Florida’s legislative stance on LGBTQ+ rights and the state’s approach to COVID-19 safety measures. Games Done Quick, the organizing body, deemed it necessary to prioritize the safety and well-being of its community, ultimately leading to the virtual event. This marked a crucial departure from the usual in-person experience that fans had come to expect, and it sparked important conversations within the gaming community.
The Impact of Florida’s Legislation
Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws
The primary driver behind AGDQ 2023’s move to an online format was the increasingly hostile legislative landscape in Florida concerning LGBTQ+ individuals. A series of anti-transgender bills and laws were passed, creating an environment that Games Done Quick felt was unsafe and unwelcoming for many members of its diverse community. The organization emphasizes inclusivity and creating a safe space for all, and the Florida laws directly contradicted these core values. The decision to shift to online was a direct response, ensuring that no one in the community would feel marginalized or threatened while participating in or attending the event.
COVID-19 Concerns
In addition to the LGBTQ+ concerns, Florida’s relaxed approach to COVID-19 regulations and the state’s explicit prohibition of vaccine mandates also influenced the decision. Games Done Quick has consistently shown a commitment to prioritizing health and safety, a commitment that would have been difficult to uphold within the context of Florida’s policies. The organization felt that holding an in-person event under these circumstances could potentially expose attendees to unnecessary health risks, which was deemed unacceptable.
Cost of Relocation
While the ethical concerns were paramount, the practicalities of relocating the event also played a role. Games Done Quick had secured the Orlando venue back in 2020. Finding and securing a suitable new venue on short notice, along with the associated logistical and financial burden, proved too challenging. The organizers stated that the expense involved in finding another in-person location would be too difficult to manage. This logistical constraint, coupled with the moral imperative to not hold an event in a location that was deemed unsafe, cemented the decision for an online event.
A Successful Online Event Despite Challenges
Despite not being in person, AGDQ 2023 proved a resounding success. The event, streamed live on the Games Done Quick Twitch channel, showcased 150 incredible speedruns. It also managed to raise a substantial $2,644,770.41 from over 39,000 donations and 21,000 donors for the Prevent Cancer Foundation. The shift to online demonstrates the resilience and commitment of the speedrunning community and their unwavering support for the cause. The online platform was well-received by viewers and participants alike, who were able to participate from around the world without the safety and logistical concerns of an in-person gathering.
The Future of Games Done Quick
AGDQ 2024 has returned to an in-person format in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, signaling the organization’s desire to return to physical events when circumstances allow. However, it’s clear that Games Done Quick remains committed to prioritizing its community’s safety and well-being when making location and event format decisions. The lessons learned from AGDQ 2023 will undoubtedly shape the future of the event and the way the organization approaches social and political issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ)?
AGDQ is a biannual charity speedrunning event where gamers showcase their skills by completing video games as quickly as possible. It’s a major fundraising event for the Prevent Cancer Foundation.
2. What is Speedrunning?
Speedrunning is the act of playing a video game with the goal of completing it as quickly as possible, often utilizing glitches, exploits, and advanced techniques.
3. Why did AGDQ choose Florida as a venue in the first place?
The Orlando, Florida venue was selected back in 2020, before the political climate regarding LGBTQ+ rights and the state’s response to COVID-19 became points of major concern.
4. When was AGDQ 2023 held?
AGDQ 2023 was held from January 8th to 15th.
5. How much money did AGDQ 2023 raise?
AGDQ 2023 raised a total of $2,644,770.41 for the Prevent Cancer Foundation.
6. How many donations and donors contributed to AGDQ 2023?
There were 39,857 donations made by 21,519 donors during AGDQ 2023.
7. Where can I watch AGDQ events?
AGDQ and other Games Done Quick events are streamed live on their official Twitch channel.
8. Is Summer Games Done Quick (SGDQ) also a charity speedrun marathon?
Yes, SGDQ is a sister event to AGDQ, held in the summer, and also raises money for charity.
9. Is AGDQ 2024 in-person?
Yes, AGDQ 2024 will be an in-person event in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from January 14-21.
10. Do runners at GDQ events get paid?
No, runners at GDQ do not get paid by the organization. However, some runners may earn income through their own social media and streaming platforms.
11. What is the largest single donation to Games Done Quick?
The largest single donation to Games Done Quick was $200,556.24 made by Humble Bundle.
12. What games are banned from GDQ?
Games banned from GDQ include those with an ESRB rating of Adults Only, specific titles such as God of War (2005), and certain series like Harry Potter and Five Nights at Freddy’s.
13. How long are GDQ events?
Both AGDQ and SGDQ are 7-day, 24-hour straight marathons streamed live on Twitch and YouTube.
14. How much money has Games Done Quick raised overall?
As of May 2023, Games Done Quick has raised over $43 million for various charities.
15. What is the official address for Games Done Quick?
GAMES DONE QUICK LLC, PO BOX 1067 Falls Church, VA 22041.