# Walkthrough vs. playthrough: meaning and difference

> A walkthrough is a step-by-step guide to beating a game; a playthrough is one full run of a game, often recorded or streamed for others to watch.

A **walkthrough** is a guide: it explains how to get through a game, step by step, with solutions to puzzles, boss strategies and item locations. A **playthrough** is one complete run of a game from start to finish. Online it usually means a recorded or streamed run you watch rather than follow, and players also use it for their own runs ("my second playthrough"). A walkthrough is made to help you play; a playthrough is mostly entertainment.

## Side by side

| | Walkthrough | Playthrough |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Help you finish the game | Show the game being played |
| Format | Text, screenshots or video with instructions | Usually video, often with commentary |
| Content | Optimal routes, collectibles, solutions | One player's choices, mistakes and reactions |
| Typical use | You're stuck or going for 100% | You want to see the story or decide if you'd like the game |

## Related terms

- **Let's Play:** a playthrough with personal commentary, popular on YouTube.
- **Longplay:** a full playthrough with no commentary, kept for reference.
- **Speedrun:** a run aimed at finishing as fast as possible.
- **Guide:** a broader term that includes walkthroughs, build guides and tips.
- **FAQ:** in older gaming communities, a text guide covering a whole game, often hosted on sites like GameFAQs.

## FAQ

**Where can I find walkthroughs?**
Game wikis, GameFAQs, IGN and Steam Community Guides cover most games. On Steam, open a game's Community Hub and choose Guides.

**Is it cheating to use a walkthrough?**
No. It's single-player help, and many people use one for missable items or tough puzzles. Using it for everything can take away the fun of discovery, though.

**What's the difference between gameplay, longplay and playthrough?**
Gameplay is how a game plays, or a short clip showing it. A playthrough covers the whole game, and a longplay is a full playthrough with no commentary.

**What makes a good walkthrough?**
Clear steps, spoiler warnings, notes on missable content and quick ways to jump to the part you need.

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https://gamevoyages.com/what-is-the-difference-between-walkthrough-and-playthrough/ · Game Voyage · Checked 2026-10-31