Analyzing the Impact of RNG (Random Number Generation) in Speedruns

12 January 2026

If you're a gamer or have a soft spot for the gaming community's many quirks, you’ve probably heard about speedrunning. It's a wild mix of skill, persistence, and...well, luck. Yes, luck—that often-overlooked variable that can make or break a speedrunner’s time. The culprit? RNG, or Random Number Generation, a game design mechanic that throws an unpredictable twist into the mix.

But just how significant is RNG in speedrunning? Is it the bane of every speedrunner’s existence, or does it add that spicy, nail-biting thrill? Let's break it all down, shall we?

What Is RNG Anyway?

Okay, let’s start super simple for anyone not yet fluent in gaming jargon. RNG stands for Random Number Generation. It's exactly what it sounds like—a system in a game that generates random numbers to determine certain outcomes. Think of it as rolling digital dice in your favorite game.

RNG is what shuffles loot drops in games like Diablo, dictates enemy behavior in Dark Souls, or decides whether a rare Pokémon pops up in tall grass. The idea is to inject unpredictability, ensuring no two playthroughs feel the same. Cool, right? Not so much when you're trying to complete a game as fast as humanly possible.

Speedrunning 101: Why RNG Matters

Speedrunning is like a race. It's all about completing a game in the shortest time possible, often by exploiting glitches, perfecting movements, and memorizing routes. But here's the kicker: RNG flips the rules.

When RNG steps into the picture, it’s like throwing a set of banana peels onto a racetrack. No matter how skilled you are, that random element can mess up your run—or, if you're lucky, work in your favor.

Let’s put it into perspective. Imagine you’re trying to bake cookies (hear me out). You’ve got your ingredients, the oven's preheated, and you’ve set a timer. But suddenly, the recipe decides to change the sugar into salt. Or maybe the flour vanishes entirely. That’s RNG in speedrunning.

RNG: The Speedrunner’s Nemesis

Speedruns and RNG have a rocky relationship. On one hand, RNG can make runs more dynamic, forcing runners to adapt. On the other hand, some speedrunners might argue that RNG is an unnecessary hurdle for what’s supposed to be a skill-based challenge.

Picture this: You're trying to speedrun Minecraft, and you need Ender Pearls from Endermen to progress. RNG decides if that Enderman will drop pearls. Sometimes, you’ll get pearls instantly—it’s a dream! Other times, you’ll spend hours farming them, screaming internally.

Then there's Super Mario 64. The 16-star run? It’s tight, technical, and thrilling. But RNG determines the boss movements, item placements, and more. One bad roll can throw off your entire run. And trust me, no amount of practice can predict RNG—it's like playing poker blindfolded.

The Love-Hate Relationship: Why Some Players Embrace RNG

Here’s where it gets interesting. While some runners see RNG as a villain, others welcome it as part of the fun. Why? Because RNG adds unpredictability.

It’s what keeps speedruns fresh. No two runs are exactly alike—there’s always the chance that RNG could bless you with a flawless, god-tier run. And those moments? They’re legendary. Entire communities rally around WR (world record) attempts, holding their breath to see if the random gods will favor their chosen runner.

It’s like watching professional sports. Sure, you can calculate probabilities, but the unpredictability makes the victory sweeter.

How Speedrunners Handle RNG

Now, what separates the pros from the amateurs? Adaptation. Speedrunners learn to manipulate RNG or at least work around it.

1. RNG Manipulation

Some games allow RNG manipulation through specific setups. By following precise inputs or movements, players can influence the outcomes. For instance, in Pokémon, hardcore runners use techniques like “manipulating frames” to get perfect stats or encounters.

2. Backup Strategies

Speedrunners are nothing if not resourceful. Many develop backup strats—secondary plans to deal with bad RNG. Let’s say you’re running The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and running short on bombs (thanks, RNG). The best players will have a plan to restock without losing too much time.

3. Grinding Practice

Sure, RNG is random, but there’s still room for preparation. By practicing all potential scenarios, runners can minimize losses caused by bad rolls. It’s like weathering a storm—you can’t control the rain, but you can bring an umbrella.

Famous RNG Moments in Speedrunning

Speedrunning history is littered with unforgettable RNG moments. Some are frustrating, others are side-splittingly funny. Let’s recount a few gems:

- Final Fantasy VII (Materia Keeper Skip): In 2019, a speedrunner discovered a strat requiring RNG to perfectly align an AI glitch. It saved a chunk of time but relied on mind-blowingly low odds.

- Super Mario Bros. 3 (The Hands): Near the end of the game, you encounter a random chance of being grabbed by “hands.” These force you into extra levels, and the time loss? Brutal. A no-hand run is the dream, but RNG doesn’t care about dreams.

- The Pokémon Series (Shiny Hunting): Shiny Pokémon are rare. Catching one during a speedrun? That’s RNG at its most chaotic. Speedrunners have cried tears of joy and rage over these unexpected encounters.

RNG in Modern Speedrunning: Has It Changed?

With each new game, RNG evolves. Older games relied more on randomness as technological limitations prevented intricate scripting. Modern games, however, often include RNG as a design choice, built to challenge or surprise players.

Speedrunning communities have adapted, finding innovative ways to work with or around RNG. Additionally, TAS (Tool-Assisted Speedruns) have emerged, showcasing what’s possible if RNG can be "perfectly" manipulated by automation.

When RNG Becomes Too Much

Let’s not sugarcoat it—sometimes RNG crosses the line. Games with excessive or unavoidable randomness can discourage runners entirely.

Take Cuphead, for example. The run-and-gun indie darling boasts stunning visuals but contains unpredictable boss patterns, making it tricky to master. Players have poured hours into trying to “tame” the game’s randomness.

Or consider games relying heavily on loot. Titles where every key item is RNG-dependent (cough roguelikes) can frustrate speedrunners beyond belief.

Should RNG Define Speedrunning?

Ultimately, RNG’s impact depends on perspective. For some runners, it’s part of the challenge—something to adapt to and overcome. For others, it’s a roadblock to showcasing pure skill.

Objectively, RNG adds variety at the cost of consistency. Whether that’s a blessing or a curse? That’s up to the player. But one thing’s for sure: RNG guarantees that no two speedruns are ever the same, and that’s dazzling in its own chaotic way.

The Human Element: Why We Keep Watching

Is it just about RNG? Nope. Speedrunning is also about the people behind the controller—their dedication, creativity, and resilience. RNG may throw curveballs, but the way a runner handles those challenges? That’s pure entertainment.

At the end of the day, RNG isn’t just a factor in speedrunning—it’s a symbol of life itself. Sometimes, you get the perfect draw, and other times, you’re stuck farming Ender Pearls for two hours. Either way, it’s how you roll with it that counts.

Final Thoughts

RNG is a double-edged sword in speedrunning. It can be frustrating, but it’s also what makes the most memorable runs possible. Love it or hate it, one thing’s clear: RNG isn’t going anywhere soon.

So, the next time you’re watching a speedrun, spare a thought for the runner braving the wild lottery of RNG. Because whether they win or lose, they’re embracing the chaos—and that’s pretty darn inspiring.