Oside Oluwole, a 24-year-old Nigerian gamer known as “Khoded,” has made history by setting a new Guinness World Record for the “longest videogame marathon playing a soccer game.” Surpassing the previous record of 50 hours held by Englishman David Whitefoot since 2022, Oluwole accomplished an astonishing feat by playing for an incredible 75 hours straight.
Choosing Dream League Soccer 2023, a mobile game he has been passionate about since 2016, Oluwole embarked on his record-breaking attempt. Unlike previous record holders who used FIFA or Pro Evolution Soccer, Oluwole played the game on his iPhone, connected to a TV screen.
Throughout the marathon, Oluwole adhered to the rules set by Guinness World Records, allowing himself five minutes of rest for every hour of gameplay. During this challenging endeavor, he played over 500 matches, demonstrating his unwavering determination and love for the game.
Reflecting on his achievement, Oluwole expressed his joy and satisfaction with the experience, stating, “I really enjoyed myself playing for 75 hours straight with just some hours of rest. It wasn’t an easy task, but I must say it was all fun. It was such a great moment; the event was very interesting, and I’m grateful to God that it was successful.”
Beyond personal glory, Oluwole used this opportunity to raise funds for a local hospital in his hometown of Ijebu Ode. His charitable initiative demonstrates his desire to give back to the community and make a positive impact through his passion for gaming.
Local officials, including Seun Adesanya of the Ogun State House of Assembly, have commended Oluwole for his remarkable achievement. Adesanya described it as a testament to his dedication, determination, and the countless hours of practice he invested in mastering the game. The record-breaking accomplishment highlights the potential of gaming as a platform for personal growth and community engagement.
What makes Oluwole’s achievement particularly exceptional is the significant margin by which he surpassed the previous record. Since the establishment of the record category in 2010, starting with a 24-hour time limit, it had been broken seven times in 11 years before reaching the milestone of 50 hours. Oluwole’s outstanding performance demonstrates his exceptional skill and endurance, setting a new benchmark for future aspirants.
Inspired by Chef Hilda Baci’s cook-a-thon, which captured Nigeria’s attention last year, Oluwole now aims to pursue further world records in soccer video games, including popular console games like FIFA and Pro Evolution Soccer (PES). His determination to push boundaries and achieve extraordinary feats within the gaming community showcases the immense potential and talent present in Nigeria’s gaming scene.
Oluwole’s record-breaking accomplishment serves as an inspiration to aspiring gamers across Nigeria and the world. It highlights the importance of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s passion. As the gaming industry continues to grow and evolve, individuals like Oluwole demonstrate the potential for both personal achievement and community impact through gaming.
Oside Oluwole’s extraordinary achievement in breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest videogame marathon playing a soccer game is a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for the game. Beyond the record itself, Oluwole’s charitable efforts and future aspirations exemplify the positive impact that gaming can have on individuals and communities. As his story spreads, it will undoubtedly inspire others to pursue their passions and strive for their own remarkable accomplishments within the gaming realm.