

This run leverages the familiar zip technique, which uses a perfectly timed guard frame exploit to launch players to kingdom come.

But occasionally you'll see comparatively massive leaps, and with how tight this Elden Ring speedrun category has already gotten, Distortion2's latest attempt is certainly impressive. Speedrun records usually change incrementally, with small discoveries and refinements shaving off precious seconds. With impressive times, constant improvements, and new strategies coming out near-daily, the amount of traction and growing popularity of Elden Ring speedrunning is no surprise.Just yesterday, Distortion2 announced bold plans to pursue a sub-seven run after cutting Elden Ring's any% category – which simply involves hitting the end credits in any way possible – down to a scant eight minutes and change. Even more ridiculous, Distortion2 currently holds the world record at 28 minutes and 59 seconds. Recently, players like Distortion2 and LilAggy have taken the speedrunning world by storm with their completion of Elden Ring in under one-hour in-game-time. Games like the Dark Souls series, Bloodborne, and now Elden Ring fit nicely into the speedrunning community due to their depth and multiple categories for completion. Previous FromSoftware titles are some of the most common games to speedrun. It adds a challenge and even competitive aspect for players looking to improve at a particular game. With varying categories including any-percent, 100-percent, glitchless, and more, there are many different ways to speedrun the same title as another person. Typically, when players become comfortable with the game and its mechanics, they can challenge themselves by racing against the clock. Speedrunning, or completing a new playthrough as fast as possible, is a growing way to play video games.

One unique way players are continuing to play the game is by trying to speedrun it. But as many players are starting to beat Elden Ring, they’re beginning to ask: “What’s next?” Some have created new characters and implemented new self-challenges, others continue onto a new playthrough on the same character, making the game more difficult. The sensation of finally beating that boss that’s had your number for the last 30 deaths is unmatched. Elden Ring does a great job rewarding players for overcoming challenges in the shape of near-ridiculous bosses, tough mechanics, and confusing dungeons.
