Games Done Quick (GDQ) is a renowned biannual charity speedrunning marathon that galvanizes the gaming community to raise millions of dollars for worthy causes. Beyond the direct donations from viewers, GDQ collaborates with various partners to further amplify its fundraising efforts. These partnerships often involve the sale of exclusive GDQ-themed merchandise and curated game bundles, offering attendees and online viewers alike the opportunity to contribute while also acquiring unique gaming collectibles or expanding their game libraries. This synergistic approach ensures that GDQ maximizes its charitable impact while providing tangible benefits to its supporters.
The recent Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ) 2025 event featured a particularly compelling offering through a partnership with Humble Bundle. This collaboration resulted in a specially curated bundle of eight games, spanning various genres and appealing to a broad spectrum of gaming preferences. The combined value of these games, when purchased individually, totals approximately £140 or $170, representing a significant saving for gamers. However, the Humble Bundle offered these titles for a remarkably reduced price of just £9.47 or $12, making it an exceptionally attractive proposition for those seeking to expand their gaming collection while simultaneously supporting a charitable cause.
The games included in the bundle showcased a diverse range of gameplay experiences, catering to different tastes and skill levels. From critically acclaimed metroidvanias like Ori and the Blind Forest with its fluid movement and captivating narrative, to the challenging roguelike Have a Nice Death demanding precision and strategic thinking, the bundle offered something for everyone. The inclusion of renowned titles such as Sonic Lost World, Condemned: Criminal Origins, and the classic Shenmue 1 & 2 further solidified the bundle’s value, offering a blend of established franchises and indie gems. This eclectic mix ensured that the bundle appealed to a wide audience, maximizing its potential reach and contributing to GDQ’s fundraising efforts.
Delving deeper into the individual titles, Ori and the Blind Forest stands out as a masterpiece of the metroidvania genre, garnering widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards. Its captivating story, coupled with its meticulously crafted world and responsive gameplay, has solidified its place as a modern classic. For players seeking a more demanding experience, Have a Nice Death presents a compelling roguelike challenge, tasking players with managing their unruly employees in the underworld. Its unique premise and demanding gameplay offer a distinct contrast to the more accessible Ori and the Blind Forest, providing a diverse range of experiences within the bundle.
The inclusion of established titles like Sonic Lost World, Condemned: Criminal Origins, and Shenmue 1 & 2 further enhances the bundle’s appeal. Sonic Lost World offers a fast-paced platforming experience, while Condemned: Criminal Origins delivers a gritty and atmospheric first-person horror adventure. Shenmue 1 & 2, a classic from the Dreamcast era, presents a unique open-world experience centered around investigation and martial arts, providing a nostalgic journey for seasoned gamers and a captivating introduction for newcomers.
The Humble Bundle initiative, tied to AGDQ 2025, underscores the innovative approaches GDQ employs to maximize its charitable impact. By partnering with platforms like Humble Bundle and offering curated game collections at significantly reduced prices, GDQ not only raises substantial funds but also cultivates a stronger sense of community among gamers. This strategy allows gamers to directly contribute to a worthy cause while simultaneously expanding their gaming libraries with a diverse selection of titles. The extended availability of the bundle, even after the conclusion of AGDQ 2025, further demonstrates GDQ’s commitment to maximizing its fundraising potential and providing ample opportunity for gamers to participate. This symbiotic relationship between charitable giving and gaming enthusiasts creates a positive feedback loop, furthering GDQ’s mission and fostering a vibrant community around speedrunning and philanthropy.
