Musically led speedruns have been some of the best surprises of Awesome Games Done Quick 2025

Awesome Games Done Quick 2025 is nearly over — and closing in on $2 million raised for the Prevent Cancer Foundation — and while the entire event is always a treat and full of surprises, one of AGDQ 2025’s most enjoyable surprises has been the wealth of runs that incorporate music in very unique ways.

After the Ratchet and Clank: Going Commando run, Xem performed an entire opera number — with the help of some commentators — and it. was. phenomenal. If you think it sounds impressive (or you can’t quite picture it), it’s so, so worth the watch.

Another highlight? New Super Mario Bros. Wii while the runner, Wes, is playing the background music on a piano. How does that work, you might ask? With the Joy-Cons attached to Wes’s head, using the motion controls and the tilting of his head to control Mario. The level of multitasking on display here blows my mind, and it was truly a sight to behold.

…And then he did a level while playing the piano blindfolded. It’s the exact kind of insane combo of IRL modifiers that makes Games Done Quick’s amazing roster of games stand out.

These are just two of many runs from AGDQ 2025 that showcase speedruns and gaming in ways that reinvent the experience. And while musically led games and performances have appeared at GDQs past, Awesome Games Done Quick 2025 has been especially filled with them. It’s a truly special, almost unbelievable look at how speedruns continue to evolve, and how GDQ continues to iterate its roster of runs with each marathon.

At the time of this writing, we’re approaching an Elden Ring boss showcase being played on a saxophone, which will be followed shortly thereafter by Crazy Taxi with an actual live band. If you’re able to tune in live, we highly encourage it! And if not, the VODs will all be available on the Games Done Quick YouTube page shortly after the event ends.