Japan's RTA omits Nintendo games this year

RTA, Japan's premier charity speedrunning event, confirms no Nintendo games this year.

Japan's biggest charity speedrunning event omits Nintendo games due to strict rules

RTA, Japan's biggest charity speedrunning event, has announced that there will be no Nintendo games featured at this year’s show due to the company's stringent policies regarding the usage of its titles. Taking place from August 9 to 15, RTA will showcase various games while directing all proceeds to Doctors Without Borders. The event's line-up includes popular titles like Minecraft, Cuphead, and Inscryption, but organizers cited Nintendo's communication on June 13 as a pivotal factor for the omission. They were informed of the necessity to request permission for each game used, which proved impractical for this year's schedule. Historically, Nintendo has maintained strict control over how its games are utilized, especially in livestreaming contexts, leading to concerns about the impact on fan-driven events.

The absence of Nintendo titles at RTA reflects the ongoing tension between gaming companies and community-driven events. Nintendo's cautious approach has often been at odds with the spirit of fan engagement found in speedrunning. While the company might see strict rules as a way to protect its brand, the community views these limitations as detrimental to participation and innovation. This situation illustrates a broader trend where corporate policies can clash with grassroots initiatives, highlighting the need for a more collaborative relationship.

Highlights

As negotiations continue, the future of Nintendo's role in charity speedrunning events remains uncertain.