Speedrunning gets a razor-sharp new platform: play faster

GoBlimp and Byzantium are poised to disrupt the speedrunning scene with Play Faster, a meticulously crafted platformer designed from the ground up for competitive, high-speed gameplay. The upcoming title isn't just another retro revival; it’s a deliberate attempt to redefine fair competition in the niche, prioritizing deterministic movement and skill above all else.

Goblimp unveils play faster, a precision platformer built for speed

The game boasts a suite of built-in tools tailored to the speedrunner's workflow: real-time input display, a comprehensive replay system, and instant retry functionality. These features are complemented by robust anti-cheat and anti-splice measures, vital for maintaining leaderboard integrity.

Developers emphasize Play Faster's focus on “short, intense” 5-8 minute runs, demanding precise execution and predictable physics. The core concept revolves around “deterministic movement,” ensuring outcomes are solely determined by the player's capabilities, eliminating any element of randomness.

A first look at Play Faster reveals a minimalist aesthetic and tight level design, suggesting a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. The game is currently in development for PC, with a wishlist available on Steam. The first trailer and screenshots offer a glimpse into the game's demanding, unforgiving world.

Ryan McCaffrey, IGN’s executive editor of previews, offers a keen eye on the emerging landscape of speedrunning, and Play Faster certainly warrants attention. He can be found dissecting these trends on Twitter @DMC_Ryan.