Games Done Quick founder Uyama is leaving

The founder of video games speedrunner charity event Games Done Quick, Mike Uyama, is leaving the organisation after 13 years.

In a post on the outfit’s website, it was revealed that the founder was “ready for a new adventure” and that he was being replaced by operations director Matt Merkle.

Since Uyama started Games Done Quick back in 2010, the organisation has raised over $41 million for charity.

“Since I started Games Done Quick, I’ve seen it grow from a small volunteer effort to the thriving organization that it is today,” Uyama said.

“I would not have been able to do it without the help of Matt Merkle and the growth of GDQ would not have been possible without the help of the speedrunning community, which has grown both in size and diversity over the years. I’m not sure where I’ll go next, but one thing I am sure about is that I will take a break and a vacation before diving headfirst into my next adventure.”

Merkle added: “I feel incredibly honoured to be entrusted with the future of GDQ by Uyama, and will do everything I can to build upon the foundation he has built for the organization since its inception. I would not be where I am today without Mike and the team he has built. It’s incredible to see how much we’ve grown, transitioning from a group of friends in a basement to a company with over 50 staff members, raising millions of dollars for charity! I look forward to working with the speedrunning community and our staff going forward, and I hope to lead GDQ to new fundraising records!”