Charity Gaming Marathon Launches Indie Games Into Spotlight, Raises Money for Good

In the world of independent game development, getting noticed can feel like an impossible dream. But a heartwarming charity event is changing that reality for small studios and solo creators, one speedrun at a time.

Games Done Quick, the biannual charity speedrunning marathon currently underway, has become an unexpected blessing for indie game developers struggling to find their audience. The event draws tens of thousands of viewers who tune in to watch skilled gamers race through titles at lightning speed, all while raising money for worthy causes like the Prevent Cancer Foundation and Doctors Without Borders.

For Ceroro, developer of the inventive platformer Bat to the Heavens, seeing her first official game featured at Awesome Games Done Quick 2026 was a dream come true. In her unique game, players must ascend to the heavens using a bat because the character cannot jump. The exposure proved transformative. "Right after the AGDQ run, there was a large burst in sales and wishlists I haven't seen since I initially released the game!" she shared with genuine excitement.

Solo developer Darya Noghani experienced similar joy when their turn-based RPG Small Saga, featuring a mouse on an epic quest, appeared at the event. The attention sparked a beautiful chain reaction as streamers discovered the game on Twitch and enthusiastic viewers recommended it across social media platforms like Bluesky. Sales climbed alongside the growing buzz.

The Ripple Effect

What makes Games Done Quick especially meaningful goes far beyond the sales numbers. The event has cultivated something rare in gaming: a genuinely uplifting and inclusive community. Over the years, organizers have taken intentional steps to celebrate diversity, hosting focused events that highlight streamers from marginalized backgrounds. The community's enthusiasm for inclusivity is palpable, with phrases supporting trans rights receiving the same roaring approval as any major gaming achievement.

For developers, getting featured at GDQ represents a milestone that resonates deeply within the creative community. Xalavier Nelson Jr., creative director at Strange Scaffold, captured this sentiment perfectly: "I got about as many congratulations for appearing on Games Done Quick as I have for getting married. It's that much of a touchstone."

While some developers initially worry that speedrunners might expose their games' glitches or skip important content, most find the experience rewarding. Ceroro embraces how speedrunners push her game's boundaries, noting that the extreme techniques used are often within the intended design. "The speedrun for Bat to the Heavens went by too fast to actually get a good understanding of everything," she explained, meaning new players will still discover surprises.

Noghani admitted to some natural apprehension about watching runners push Small Saga to its limits, but ultimately celebrated when the run went smoothly. "I'll take that as a win," they said.

The beautiful truth is that Games Done Quick achieves multiple victories simultaneously. It raises crucial funds for charitable organizations, provides entertainment for gaming enthusiasts, celebrates the artistry of speedrunners, and opens doors for indie developers who pour their hearts into creating unique experiences.

"It's been exciting," Noghani reflected. "Because GDQ is genuinely well-loved by both players and developers, not just for its charitable causes, but because of the efforts they've taken to cultivate an uplifting community."

In an industry where independent creators face enormous challenges, Games Done Quick proves that community, creativity, and charity can combine to create something truly special.