The $10,000 tournament organized by Elden Ring speedrunner Distortion2 recently concluded with an impressive winning run submitted just hours before the deadline. The goal of the tournament was to defeat all Shadow of the Erdtree Remembrance bosses and Bayle the dragon at level 1 using only DLC weapons, with the additional challenge of gaining only one Scadutree level after defeating each boss. Runners were allowed to use premade character save files with certain items, including talismans, and some glitches were allowed, but not the typical any% clear where runners simply skip to the end and defeat bosses with gravity. The winning run, completed by Spicee, clocked in at 1:14:41, giving them a 144-second lead over the second-place runner.
Spicee’s winning run showcased meticulous planning and execution throughout. They made strategic decisions early in the run, such as obtaining the Blade of Mercy DLC talisman and the Great Katana from the opening swamp. Additionally, they collected essential items like the Firespark Perfume Bottle, the Repeating Crossbow, Scadutree Fragments, and thin beast bones for throwables, which played a crucial role in later boss fights. Spicee’s use of various weapons and spells, including the Shadow Sunflower Blossom weapon and core damage-boosting incantations like Golden Vow and Flame Grant Me Strength, demonstrated a deep understanding of game mechanics and optimization.
One of the highlights of Spicee’s run was the efficient use of throwables, distractions, and unique sorceries like Unseen Form to gain an edge in combat situations. Notable boss encounters, such as the battles against the Golden Hippopotamus, the Scadutree Avatar, and Commander Gaius, showcased Spicee’s adaptability and skill in utilizing the available resources to their advantage. The utilization of the pegasus walk glitch at around 1:05:00 marked a significant turning point in the run, allowing Spicee to skip ahead to Midra in the Abyssal Woods and save valuable time.
With the conclusion of the tournament, Distortion2 announced a new challenge for aspiring speedrunners to beat Spicee’s winning time using a specific route he developed. This additional incentive of cash prizes for the first three players to achieve this feat highlights the ongoing competitive spirit within the speedrunning community. The success of the tournament and the level of skill demonstrated by participants like Spicee pave the way for future events and potential sponsorships to further elevate the speedrunning scene.
The Elden Ring speedrunning tournament showcased the dedication, ingenuity, and competitive spirit of participants like Spicee. The winning run not only displayed exceptional skill and optimization but also highlighted the evolving strategies and techniques employed in the speedrunning community. As the interest in speedrunning continues to grow, events like this tournament serve as a testament to the passion and talent of individuals pushing the limits of game completion and fostering a vibrant community centered around shared experiences and competitive challenges.
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