The annual Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ) charity speedrunning marathon is in full swing, having already surpassed the $500,000 mark in donations for the Prevent Charity Foundation. With three more days to go, the event is expected to continue breaking records and entertaining gamers worldwide.

While the marathon's schedule is designed to showcase popular games and gimmicky runs during primetime hours, some of the most memorable moments can be found during off-peak times. As reporter Ash Parrish notes, relying solely on the schedule or personal preferences can lead to missing out on the best AGDQ has to offer. Take, for example, the speedrun of Batman Forever: The Arcade Game, a lesser-known title that won over viewers with its absurd goofiness and charisma.

AGDQ's unique format allows for the discovery of hidden gems, often during unexpected times. Games like Mr. Bones, a Sega Saturn title, and Pizza Possum, an indie co-op game, have gained new fans thanks to their speedruns during the marathon. This highlights the importance of keeping the stream running in the background, as one never knows when a new favorite game might be discovered.

The marathon's schedule is carefully curated to cater to different audiences, with popular games and runs taking place during early evenings and weekends. However, it's the unexpected moments, like the Ratatouille run from Summer Games Done Quick 2023, that often stand out as fan favorites. These moments demonstrate the value of AGDQ's 24/7 format, which encourages viewers to keep the stream running and discover new games and runners.

With three days remaining, AGDQ is expected to continue pushing boundaries and raising funds for the Prevent Charity Foundation. Upcoming highlights include a New Super Mario Bros. Wii run featuring a piano-playing runner and a Crazy Taxi run accompanied by a live band playing covers of the game's soundtrack. As the marathon enters its final stretch, viewers are eagerly anticipating the next hidden gem to be discovered.

In conclusion, AGDQ's annual charity speedrunning marathon is a testament to the power of gaming communities coming together for a good cause. With its unique format and 24/7 schedule, the event offers a platform for gamers to discover new titles, support charity, and connect with like-minded individuals. As the marathon continues to break records and entertain, it's clear that AGDQ is an event that will be remembered for years to come.