10 Hardcore Challenges Gamers Set THEMSELVES
1. 101% For Charity - Donkey Kong 64
By his own admission, this is pretty much the opposite of a speedrun, however that's partially what inspired Harry Brewis (Hbomberguy) to undertake this incredible feat that was described as "an antidote to the worst of gaming culture".
A bit of background: in 2018 The National Lottery designated £500,000 to Mermaids, a wonderful charity who provide support to transgender teens. Unfortunately Graham Linehan - former comedian, current piece of garbage - spearheaded a hate campaign against Mermaids to get the funding pulled. Successfully. Because, y'know, the trans community frankly haven't had it hard enough.
In response, Brewis decided to stream Donkey Kong 64 until he reached 101% in order to raise money for Mermaids. He raised over £300,000 during the stream, also The National Lottery decided to give Mermaids the funding after all. So good job, Graham, you absolute idiot.
Along with this, numerous people of note appeared on the stream in order to show their support for Brewis' efforts, and the trans community at large. These included numerous YouTubers, Fallout: New Vegas lead designer Josh Sawyer, Donkey Kong composer Grant Kirkman and id co-founder John Romero. Oh, and U.S. State Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Jesus. Christ.
Look, I know I said somewhat sarcastically that humanity are 'awesome' earlier. But sometimes they really are.