The speedrunning community is getting a massive unexpected boost. The charity organization Games Done Quick (GDQ) has officially announced a landmark partnership with Gamescom, the world's largest gaming event. This collaboration will bring a brand-new, three-day-long speedrunning spectacle directly to Europe.
A New Era of Games Done Quick in Europe
The upcoming Gamescom GDQ marathon is scheduled to take place from August 28–30 at the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany. This marks a historic milestone for the organization, as it represents the first time a GDQ event will be hosted on European soil.
Fans attending the convention can experience the high-octane energy of the runs live on-site. However, those unable to make the trip to Germany won't be left out. The entire event will be broadcast globally via:
- Twitch
- YouTube
Supporting Gaming for Democracy
For over a decade, GDQ has been a powerhouse for charitable giving, combining high-level gameplay with massive fundraising goals. The organization's impact in 2025 has already been staggering, raising nearly $5.5 million through its major marathons—including Awesome Games Done Quick and Summer Games Done Quick—as well as specialized events like the Flame Fatales marathons.
The proceeds from this specific Gamescom event will be directed toward a new cause: Gaming for Democracy. This newly-founded initiative focuses on supporting civic engagement and democratic values through the lens of gaming culture.
This partnership not only expands the reach of the Games Done Quick community but also introduces a fresh mission to their long history of philanthropic success.
