Gamers Raise $2.4M for Doctors Without Borders in July

When thousands of gamers gather in Minneapolis this July, their lightning-fast gaming skills will save lives across the globe.

Summer Games Done Quick 2026 kicks off July 5, bringing together the world's most talented speedrunners for a week-long charity marathon. Every donation goes directly to Doctors Without Borders, and last year's event raised an incredible $2.4 million for the medical humanitarian organization.

The event showcases gamers completing video games at seemingly impossible speeds, mixing technical mastery with pure entertainment. This year's schedule features everything from recent hits like Kirby Air Riders and Mouse: P.I. for Hire to beloved classics like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and Donkey Kong Country 2.

But the real magic happens in the oddball runs that push gaming to wild new limits. One runner will use automated tools to collect all 120 stars in Super Mario 64 at speeds no human could achieve alone. Another will attempt to score so high in Balatro that the game literally breaks.

The most creative entry might be Gordon & Daxter, a one-of-a-kind mashup that imports Half-Life movement mechanics into Jak and Daxter. There's even someone speedrunning Drywall Eating Simulator, because why not?

The Ripple Effect

What started as gamers sharing their passion has become a global force for good. Over the years, Games Done Quick events have raised tens of millions of dollars for charities worldwide. Each speedrun becomes a chance for viewers to donate, turning gaming skills into medical supplies, emergency relief, and healthcare for people in crisis zones.

The event proves that online communities can create real-world change. Gamers who might never meet in person unite around shared excitement, cheering each other on while supporting a cause that matters.

Anyone can watch the entire week free on Twitch and YouTube starting July 5. Whether you're a hardcore gamer or just curious, you'll witness incredible talent combined with genuine heart.

Gaming has never felt this good.