Speedrunning gets a razor-sharp new platform: play faster

Speedrunners, prepare to optimize. GoBlimp and Byzantium today unveiled Play Faster, a precision platformer built from the ground up for blistering speedruns. The game boasts features specifically designed to aid in the pursuit of record times, promising a fresh approach to competitive speedrunning.

Deterministic movement, player skill reigns

Unlike many games that add speedrunning as an afterthought, Play Faster prioritizes it. The platformer emphasizes “short, intense” 5-8 minute runs and “deterministic movement,” meaning outcomes are entirely dependent on player skill, not random chance. This focus is a significant departure from games where luck often plays a larger role in achieving top times.

The platform includes integrated tools such as input display, a replay system, instant retries, and a practice mode. Anti-cheat and anti-splice measures are also included, aiming to maintain fair competition on its leaderboards. The developers are keen to foster a community built on demonstrable skill, not exploits.

While details remain somewhat sparse, the initial screenshots suggest a minimalist aesthetic geared toward clarity and speed. The focus is clearly on the gameplay experience itself.

Play Faster is currently in development for PC. Those eager to track its progress can wishlist it on Steam. Ryan McCaffrey, IGN’s executive editor of previews, suggests this could be a welcome evolution for the speedrunning community. He notes the need for dedicated platforms that understand the nuances of competitive speedrunning.

Play Faster first screenshots are available to view here.