Can a Dog Break a Video Game Speedrun Record?
Get ready for an unusual sight at the next Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ) event in January. It seems that a dog is set to challenge a video game speedrun record, and it’s not a joke. AGDQ is a renowned event in the world of video game speedrunning, where players strive to complete games as quickly as possible. Since 2010, the Games Done Quick competitions have raised over $46 million for various charities.
The upcoming AGDQ 2024 will feature a “dog-assisted” speedrun on the game Gyromite for the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Instead of using the R.O.B. robot accessory, a Shiba Inu dog named Peanut Butter will take its place with the help of a custom controller.
In a video posted by JSR, Peanut Butter’s owner, it’s revealed that he taught the smart and responsive dog to use the custom controller. The video showcases Peanut Butter being prompted through commands and receiving treats for tapping the correct button with his paw.
While Peanut Butter’s time won’t be directly compared to human players, their current personal best time of 25:29 for the Gyromite “Game B” speedrun approach is impressive. They are just slightly behind the human record of 24:39 achieved with the R.O.B. robot. Peanut Butter and JSR aim to break the overall Gyromite Game B world record in January while raising funds for charity.
Hot Take: A Canine Challenger in the Speedrunning World
Prepare to witness history in the making at AGDQ 2024 as Peanut Butter, the Shiba Inu dog, takes on a video game speedrun record. This unique “dog-assisted” speedrun on Gyromite will captivate audiences and demonstrate the incredible bond between humans and their furry friends. Peanut Butter’s intelligence and responsiveness, coupled with JSR’s guidance, prove that dogs can be more than just companions. They can become skilled gamers too! While their time may not be directly compared to human players, Peanut Butter and JSR are determined to leave their mark in the speedrunning community while supporting charitable causes. Get ready to cheer on this canine challenger as they strive for greatness in the gaming world!