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Summer Games Done Quick 2026 raises another $2.4 million for Doctors Without Borders
The 2026 Summer Games Done Quick speedrunning marathon concluded this week in Minneapolis, generating $2.4 million in donations for Doctors Without Borders. The event attracted approximately 2,500 in-person participants and additional viewers through livestreams, with all proceeds directed toward the international medical charity's humanitarian work. Organisers also screened a documentary highlighting the organisation's response efforts to the crisis in Gaza.
Beyond competitive gameplay, the marathon offered attendees panels, community gaming spaces, vendor exhibitions featuring video game artwork, and playable game demonstrations. Notable speedrunning performances included a world record run of Kirby Air Riders and an unexpectedly successful Balatro competition. Since its establishment in 2010, Games Done Quick has accumulated more than $62 million in total charitable donations across multiple causes, with the organisation hosting two major events annually alongside additional programming.
In short
- Annual speedrunning marathon SGDQ 2026 generated $2.4 million for Doctors Without Borders through in-person and online participation
- Event featured competitive speedruns, community activities, and vendor experiences across Minneapolis venue with thousands of attendees
- Games Done Quick collective has raised over $62 million for various humanitarian organisations since its 2010 inception
Explained simply
Speedrunning is the practice of completing video games as fast as possible, with players using skill and knowledge to set records. Games Done Quick is an annual marathon event where speedrunners perform these runs live in front of audiences who donate money to support charitable causes.
Since launching in 2010, Games Done Quick has raised over $62 million for various charitable organisations. The event is held twice yearly and has become one of the world's largest gaming-focused charity fundraisers, with proceeds supporting international organisations such as Doctors Without Borders.
Beyond the competitive speedrunning performances, the event offers community gaming spaces, panels, vendor exhibitions and playable game demonstrations. The marathon attracts thousands of spectators in person and many more through online livestreams, creating a significant gathering for gaming enthusiasts and supporters of the featured charities.