Nintendo has made headlines again (I can hear CJ from GTA now)... but (but... but...) this time the press is for pulling its games from RTA in Japan, one of the country’s largest charity speedrunning events. But unlike past controversies, this isn’t about Nintendo being unpredictable. It’s about them sticking firmly to their legal framework, even when the cause is charitable. Yeah its sad, but let's continue.
For modders, streamers, and non-profit organizers, this is a wake-up call. If you don’t have explicit permission to use a company’s game—especially one as legally meticulous as Nintendo—it could come back to haunt you like King Boo.
What Happened?
• RTA in Japan has hosted charity speedruns since 2014, raising funds for causes like Doctors Without Borders.
• On June 13, 2025, Nintendo formally notified organizers that corporate use of its games requires prior permission.
• The company stated that RTA’s previous use of Nintendo titles constituted “unauthorized use.”
• With the next event looming in August, RTA was forced to remove Nintendo games from its lineup, including classics like Super Mario 64.
You can read the full story on PC Gamer’s coverage.
Nintendo’s Position: Lawful, Not Lenient
This isn’t about Nintendo “playing by its own rules.” It’s about them enforcing the rules they’ve always had. Japanese publishers, in particular, are known for their strict definitions of copyright infringement—especially when it comes to streaming and public exhibitions. In 2022, a man was arrested by Japan’s Content Overseas Distribution Agency (CODA) for violating these laws.
Nintendo’s stance is consistent: if you’re a corporation—even a non-profit... you need prior approval. And if they’re unwilling to grant that approval, it's all good, it's not the end of the world.
A Warning to Modders and Organizers
If you’re planning to use a game for public or charitable purposes, don’t assume good intentions will shield you from legal consequences. Here’s how to approach developers the right way:
Steps to Secure Permission for Charity Use
1. Identify the Right Contact
• Reach out to the publisher’s licensing or legal department via official channels.
2. Prepare a Professional Proposal
• Include event details, charitable goals, expected audience, and how the game will be used.
3. Request Written Permission or Licensing Terms
• Ask for a formal agreement, and be ready to sign an NDA if required.
4. Respect Brand Guidelines
• Follow any content usage or streaming policies provided by the developer.
5. Offer Visibility and Impact
• Show how their game’s inclusion supports a meaningful cause and offer post-event reporting.
6. Have Alternatives Ready
• If a developer refuses to collaborate—even under NDA—consider other titles from studios that actively support charity work.
There Are Other Developers Willing to Play Ball
Nintendo isn’t the only developer in town. Many indie studios and even some major publishers have embraced charities via bundles and events. Games like Celeste, Super Meat Boy, and Hollow Knight have been featured in game Bundles for charitable purposes. These developers often see community engagement as a win-win, not a liability. Super Meat Boy is a great speed run option, along with Celeste, and even games like Qube 2.
If you’re a modder, streamer, or non-profit organizer, treat game IP with the same respect you’d give to any licensed content. You'll thank us later. RTA had a nice run, but it's time to find another option. Permission isn’t optional—it’s foundational. And if a company refuses to collaborate, even under formal agreements, it may be time to shift your focus. There are developers who understand what goodwill is, just get the legal clarity so that you're firing on all cylinders with no legal action to worry about.
Top 5 Indie Speedrun Games on PC
Celeste
🧗 Genre: Precision Platformer
🎯 Why It’s Great:
• Ultra-responsive controls and tight level design
• Built-in speedrun timer and accessibility options
• Massive community with custom maps and mods
• Speedrun categories include Any%, All Berries, and Farewell DLC
Super Meat Boy
🩸 Genre: Hardcore Platformer
🎯 Why It’s Great:
• Brutally fast levels with instant respawns
• High skill ceiling with momentum-based movement
• Popular among runners for its short but intense stages
• Leaderboards and replay features built-in
Katana ZERO
⚔️ Genre: Neo-noir Action
🎯 Why It’s Great:
• Time manipulation mechanics allow for creative routing
• Fast-paced combat with one-hit kills
• Stylish visuals and tight controls
• Speedrunners love optimizing each room for perfect flow
Neon White
😇 Genre: First-Person Shooter / Platformer Hybrid
🎯 Why It’s Great:
• Designed specifically with speedrunning in mind
• Card-based movement system encourages route experimentation
• Global leaderboards and ghost replays
• Levels are short, snappy, and reward mastery
Hollow Knight
🐞 Genre: Metroidvania
🎯 Why It’s Great:
• Deep movement tech (nail bouncing, pogoing, etc.)
• Multiple categories: Any%, 112%, Pantheon runs
• Massive community with modded content and races
• Complex routing and boss strategies make it endlessly replayable
