The global gaming community is buzzing as RTA in Japan, the largest video game speedrunning community in the country, announced a significant change for its upcoming August event. For the first time, no first-party Nintendo games will be featured, sparking curiosity and concern among fans. This decision stems from a new licensing requirement imposed by Nintendo, which was revealed on August 4, 2025.
- RTA in Japan excludes Nintendo games from event.
- Nintendo requires licensing agreements for games.
- Previous game usage deemed unauthorized by Nintendo.
- RTA became a legal entity in 2020.
- Future requests will be submitted for permission.
- Organizers apologize for the situation's impact.
RTA officials confirmed that Nintendo now requires them to apply for individual licensing agreements for each game they wish to feature. This shift follows RTA’s transition to a non-profit organization in 2020, which has complicated their relationship with Nintendo. Previously, Nintendo games had been a staple of RTA events, drawing large audiences and excitement.
This situation raises important questions about the future of gaming events. Will other gaming companies follow suit, imposing similar restrictions? The implications could be significant for the speedrunning community and beyond.
- Increased licensing requirements may limit the diversity of games featured at events.
- Smaller organizations might struggle to comply with complex legal frameworks.
- Fans may miss out on beloved titles, affecting event attendance and engagement.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it’s essential for speedrunning communities to find ways to collaborate with major publishers. Will RTA’s approach set a precedent for future events?
