Major speedrunning categories include Any%, 100%, Glitchless, Low%, and Tool-assisted runs.
I’ve spent years studying and watching runs, and I know how confusing speedrun labels can be. This article breaks down the different types of speedrunning categories, explains why they matter, and gives clear examples and tips so you can pick a category to try or follow with confidence.
What are speedrunning categories and why they exist
Speedrunning categories are rule sets that define goals, allowed tricks, and timing rules for completing a game. They give structure so runs are comparable, fair, and meaningful. When you search for "different types of speedrunning categories," you’re asking how communities split playstyles and goals into consistent leaderboards.
Categories exist because games are flexible. Players can finish a game many ways. Categories let runners focus on a style—like finishing as fast as possible with any trick, or collecting every item. Clear categories also encourage new strategies and fair competition.
Core speedrunning categories explained
Below are the most common categories you’ll see across games. Each one changes strategy and community interest. When learning the different types of speedrunning categories, start here.
Any%
Any% means finish the game as fast as possible with no requirement to complete optional objectives. Glitches are often allowed unless specified. Any% runs are fast and technique-heavy.
100%
100% requires collecting or completing all major objectives the game considers “complete.” This is slower and emphasizes thorough routing and consistency.
Glitchless
Glitchless bans sequence breaks and major unintended exploits. Runners focus on intended mechanics. Glitchless runs often highlight deep game knowledge and optimization of normal play.
Low% / Minimal
Low% asks you to finish with the fewest items, upgrades, or actions possible. This twists routing and can produce surprising strategies.
Glitched / Sequence Break
Glitched or sequence-break runs embrace exploits to skip large parts of a game. These runs often redefine what’s possible and can produce dramatic time savings.
Tool-Assisted Speedrun (TAS)
A TAS uses emulators and frame-by-frame input to create near-perfect runs. TAS is a different discipline that explores theoretical limits. It’s allowed in its own leaderboards and is a research tool for human runners.
Individual Level (IL)
IL targets a single level, boss, or segment rather than the full game. ILs are great for practicing and comparing specific skills.
Co-op and Multiplayer Categories
These require two or more players and have rules about communication, assists, and shared objectives. They add teamwork and coordination to the challenge.
Warpless and Set-Goal Categories
Warpless forbids world map fast-travel or skips, making travel and routing core. Set-goal categories require reaching a specific milestone (like all dungeons) rather than beating the final boss.
When exploring the different types of speedrunning categories, you’ll notice games create custom variants to reflect unique mechanics and community interests.
Timing, leaderboards, and rule nuances
Timing rules affect how runs are compared. Common timing methods are:
- Real Time (RTA) — wall-clock time from start to finish, including loads.
- In-Game Time (IGT) — time tracked by the game, usually excluding loads.
- Loadless RTA — RTA measured while excluding load screens via specific setups.
Leaderboards often have category-specific rules about versions, platforms, and patch differences. When you check leaderboards, read rules carefully—small details change what’s legal.
How categories shape strategy and community
Different categories change what matters in a run. Any% focuses on extreme optimization and risky tricks. 100% rewards consistency and route planning. Glitchless highlights mechanical mastery. TAS pushes technical limits and inspires new human strategies.
From my experience watching and doing runs, the most exciting part is community evolution. A novel trick in a glitched category can drop minutes overnight. I learned to read rule pages and watch top runs to spot trends. Mistakes I made early: ignoring version rules and using a banned exploit on a submitted run—always double-check.
Picking the right category to start
If you’re new and want to try speedrunning, follow these tips:
- Choose a short game or single level to learn timing and submission rules.
- Start with a popular category like Any% or Glitchless to access guides and videos.
- Watch recent WRs to see current routes and common tricks.
- Join the game’s community channel and ask about starter routes.
Trying multiple categories helps you find what’s fun. I began with Any% for quick feedback, then moved to 100% for depth.
Common pitfalls, etiquette, and best practices
Avoid these common traps:
- Submitting a run without reading the category rules first.
- Comparing runs across categories (Any% times cannot be compared to 100%).
- Ignoring platform/version differences that disqualify runs.
Good etiquette:
- Credit discovered tricks and glitch finders.
- Share route improvements respectfully.
- Be transparent about tools and methods used.
When in doubt, ask moderators or leaderboard managers. They’ll usually clarify ambiguous cases.
Frequently Asked Questions about What are the different types of speedrunning categories?
What is Any% and why is it popular?
Any% is finishing the game as fast as possible with no completion requirement. It’s popular because it’s fast, accessible, and often shows flashy tricks.
How does Glitchless differ from Glitched runs?
Glitchless bans unintended exploits and sequence breaks, so it follows intended gameplay. Glitched runs allow exploits to shorten routes.
What is TAS and is it allowed on normal leaderboards?
TAS (Tool-Assisted Speedrun) uses emulator tools to optimize inputs. TAS runs belong on separate leaderboards and are not mixed with human RTA leaderboards.
Should beginners start with Any% or 100%?
Beginners often start with Any% for quick feedback, but 100% helps learn full game mechanics. Pick what keeps you motivated.
How do leaderboard timing methods affect my run?
Timing method (RTA vs IGT) changes how load times and pauses count. Always follow the leaderboard’s timing rules when submitting.
Can I switch categories for the same game?
Yes. You can compete in multiple categories. Each has separate leaderboards and often different communities.
Conclusion
Speedrunning categories let players shape goals, compare runs, and push games in creative ways. Knowing the different types of speedrunning categories helps you find a community, pick a challenge, and set realistic goals. Start small, read rules, and watch top runs to learn. Try a category today, join a Discord or leaderboard, and share your first run — the community loves new faces and fresh attempts.
