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Speedrun Techniques: Complete in Under 30 Minutes

Video tutorial showing a sub-30 minute speedrun

Introduction to Speedrunning

One of the most challenging achievements in A Game About Digging A Hole is "The Fastest," which requires you to complete the game in under 30 minutes. While it may seem impossible at first, with the right strategy, it's absolutely achievable! This guide will walk you through proven approaches to earning this prestigious achievement.

Best Time Records

Some players have reported completing the game in as little as:

  • 22 minutes - with one death
  • 23 minutes - optimized path
  • 27 minutes - standard speedrun approach
  • 29 minutes - comfortable achievement pace

Key Speedrun Strategies

Keep Track of Time

Set a timer when you start your run. Since the goal is to finish within 30 minutes, it's important to know if you're on pace. If you're clearly not going to make it, restart rather than waste more time. Save your game periodically when things are going well.

Focus on Vertical Progress

The most important strategy is to dig straight down as efficiently as possible. Don't waste time exploring horizontally or pursuing side objectives. Every second counts in a speedrun, so maintain a laser focus on depth progress.

DO

  • Dig straight down
  • Prioritize shovel upgrades
  • Use dynamite for rocks
  • Take advantage of caves
  • Save often

DON'T

  • Hunt for mine shafts
  • Search for keys
  • Explore horizontally
  • Wait for inventory to fill
  • Waste time collecting low-value items

Upgrade Priorities

Proper upgrade sequencing is crucial for a successful speedrun. Here's the optimal approach:

  1. Shovel Upgrades: Make this your absolute top priority. Aim to get the drill as quickly as possible, as it dramatically increases your digging speed.
  2. Jetpack: A moderate upgrade (around 80 strength) makes traversing back to the surface much faster, saving precious minutes.
  3. Battery: Upgrade to around 800-1600 capacity. This provides enough power for extended digging sessions.
  4. Inventory: 12-15 slots is sufficient for a speedrun. Don't waste money on excessive capacity.

Pro Tip: Hollow Spaces

Cave systems and hollow spaces are your best friends during a speedrun. They not only save you the effort of digging but also often contain valuable ores. The higher-value minerals you find, the more you can invest in crucial upgrades. Starting from copper, you can make decent profits, so be sure to mine any ore you encounter.

Mole Evasion Tactics

Moles can significantly slow down your run if they spot you. Their field of vision is quite wide, and getting caught wastes valuable time. If a mole sees you:

  • Reload from a save if you're tight on time
  • Always use the dash ability to evade them
  • Move when their backs are turned
  • Keep to the edges of tunnels where possible

Final Digging: The One-Way Trip

Once you reach around 70 meters depth, health and battery become much less important. At this point:

  • Use remaining money for dynamite and lighting (keep enough for one battery charge)
  • Make a final push without worrying about returning to the surface
  • If you run out of power, you'll respawn at the surface - recharge and continue digging
  • Focus entirely on reaching the end goal

Time Benchmarks

To stay on track, aim for these depth milestones:

  • 16 minutes remaining: Reach 25 meters depth
  • 8 minutes remaining: Reach platinum/diamond depth (acquire drill)
  • 5 minutes remaining: Make final descent to reach the treasure

Remember, most of your time is spent in the first 25 meters since tools are basic and materials are less valuable. The run gets faster as you progress deeper.

Other Notable Achievements

While focusing on your speedrun, you might also consider these achievements:

  • BOOOOM! - You don't need to destroy rocks to throw 100 dynamites. Just buy and throw them!
  • Long Fall - Fall without landing for 4 seconds. Widen the hole, use the jetpack to rise from the center, and then fall for extra distance.

Conclusion

Completing the game in under 30 minutes is challenging but achievable with focus and strategy. The presence of caverns and rocks plays a significant role, so luck is also a factor. If your first attempt doesn't succeed, analyze what slowed you down and adjust your approach for the next run.

Good luck, and happy speed digging!