Minecraft 1.8.8

While modern speedrunning has moved to 1.16+ (due to Netherite and Bastions), the 1.8.9/1.8.8 category remains a historical staple. It was the version where legendary runs were set using the "Manhunt" format, popularized by YouTubers like Dream. The "Eye Spy" and "F3" strategies were born in this era.

The primary reason 1.8.8 is still played today is the combat. It is the final stronghold of the "spam-click" meta. Minecraft 1.8.8

The way invincibility frames work in 1.8.8 allows for "stun-locking" combos. You can hit an enemy multiple times consecutively, knocking them back into the air. This created the famous "Combo Duels" seen on servers like Hypixel and Mineplex. While modern speedrunning has moved to 1