How Do You Record And Submit A Speedrun?: Quick Guide

Record and submit a speedrun by capturing full gameplay, timing correctly, and uploading verifiable video proof.

I’ve run and verified dozens of runs and helped others get their runs accepted. This guide explains exactly how to record and submit a speedrun, step by step. You’ll learn the gear, timing rules, recording tips, editing basics, and the exact submission workflow used by online leaderboards. Expect clear examples, common mistakes, and practical advice you can use today.

Why record and submit a speedrun?

Recording and submitting a speedrun preserves your performance. It gives verifiers the proof they need to accept a run on leaderboards. It also helps you learn by reviewing mistakes and sharing milestones with the community. Recording and submitting a speedrun turns a private achievement into community-recognized progress.

Essential gear and software for recording

You do not need expensive kit to record and submit a speedrun. A simple setup often includes a capture device, recording software, and a reliable storage method. Here are the common tools players use:

• A capture card for consoles, or screen capture software for PC.
• Recording programs like OBS Studio or hardware recorder apps.
• A microphone for commentary and a webcam if you want facecam.
• External storage or cloud backup to keep raw footage safe.

Good gear reduces headaches during submission and verification when you record and submit a speedrun.

Step-by-step: how to record and submit a speedrun

Follow these clear steps when you record and submit a speedrun. Keep each run honest and fully documented.

1. Prepare your game and rules
   • Read the category rules on the target leaderboard.
   • Set the same settings every run (difficulty, DLC, region).
2. Set up capture and timing
   • Configure a recording app to capture full resolution and framerate.
   • Use an accepted timer or the in-game timer if rules allow.
3. Record the full run with visible timing
   • Start recording before the first input and stop after the final input.
   • Keep real time or in-game time displayed as required.
4. Save raw footage and notes
   • Keep the unedited recording and note timestamps for key moments.
   • Save splits file and any system logs that show time consistency.
5. Edit only when allowed
   • Trim start and end only if permitted; never alter gameplay.
   • Add timestamps in the description to show segment proof.
6. Upload and submit
   • Upload to a public platform like YouTube or a file host.
   • Create a run submission on the leaderboard and attach the link and evidence.

When you record and submit a speedrun, be methodical. The clearer your proof, the easier verification will be.

Formatting, timing rules, and verification basics

Leaderboards follow specific timing rules and proof requirements. Understand these rules to avoid rejected submissions.

• Real Time Attack (RTA) measures wall clock time from start to finish.
• In-Game Time (IGT) uses the game’s own timer and can differ from RTA.
• Splits are used to show progress and segment times.
• Verification checks include watching the full run, confirming rule compliance, and examining glitches used.

Correct timing and clear proof make verification fast. If you want your run accepted, match the rules exactly when you record and submit a speedrun.

Editing, uploading, and tagging for leaderboard acceptance

How you upload and present your video matters. A clean submission reduces questions.

• Upload the full, uncut video to a public hosting site.
• Use an accurate title that includes the game, category, and platform.
• In the description include system specs, timing method, and any cheat-free statements.
• Add timestamps and link to split files or logs.
• Fill the leaderboard submission form completely and attach proof links.

Moderators often reject submissions that lack timestamps, a full unedited video, or correct metadata. Proper formatting speeds up approval when you record and submit a speedrun.

Common problems and troubleshooting

Runners face common technical and rule issues. Fixing these stops rejections and saves time.

• Audio out of sync: Check capture settings and audio sources before starting.
• Dropped frames: Lower bitrate or change encoder to reduce frame loss.
• Wrong timer: Verify timer source and location on screen.
• Missing proof: Keep the full raw file and never delete it right away.

I once had a run rejected due to missing start footage. I learned to always record a buffer before the first input. This simple habit prevented future issues when I record and submit a speedrun.

My experience, lessons, and practical tips

I’ve recorded and submitted many runs for different games. These lessons helped me and others get verified quickly.

• Test a short demo run before a serious attempt.
• Keep a checklist: rules, timer, recording, backup, and upload link.
• Communicate with verifiers clearly and respectfully.
• Practice consistency over flashy tricks if you want leaderboard standing.

One time I forgot to enable the visible timer. The run was valid but required extra proof and delay. After that, I added a pre-run checklist. It saves time when you record and submit a speedrun.

Frequently Asked Questions of How do you record and submit a speedrun?

How long should the raw footage be when I submit a run?

Keep the full unedited run from a few seconds before start input to a few seconds after final input. This gives verifiers context and prevents suspicion about missing frames.

Do I need a capture card to record console speedruns?

A capture card is recommended for consistent quality, but some consoles allow direct recording or streaming that meets leaderboard rules. Check the category requirements before you record.

Can I edit my video before submitting it to a leaderboard?

Editing rules vary. Most leaderboards only allow trims at start and end. Do not splice or remove gameplay unless the rules explicitly permit it.

How do I prove an in-game timer versus real time?

Include both the in-game timer and an external timer or split file if the category requires it. Show the timer at the start and end clearly in the recording.

What happens after I submit a speedrun to a leaderboard?

A moderator or community verifier watches the run, checks rule compliance, and either accepts, requests more proof, or rejects it. Response times vary by game and community load.

Conclusion

You can record and submit a speedrun with clarity and confidence by following the right steps. Prepare gear, follow rules, save full raw footage, and present clear proof. Start small, iterate, and use community feedback to improve. Take one run today, follow the checklist, and submit it—your next verified run could be the one that gets you on the leaderboard. Leave a comment with your game and category or subscribe to stay updated on tips and tools for better runs.