Elden Ring Speedrun WR: Shattering the 25-Minute Barrier with a Revolutionary Glitch!

The Staggering Achievement

The Lands Between have been conquered, but never quite like this. A new World Record has been set in the Elden Ring Any% speedrun, and it's absolutely mind-blowing. We're talking about a time of 25 minutes and 29 seconds. To put that into perspective, this is a record that not only pushes the boundaries of what was thought possible but also introduces a game-changing mechanic that has the entire speedrunning community buzzing. This isn't just another PB; it's a seismic shift in how Elden Ring can be played at its absolute fastest.

For those unfamiliar, the Any% category means completing the game as quickly as possible, with no restrictions on what glitches or exploits can be used. This record, achieved by a phenomenal speedrunner, leverages a recently discovered exploit that drastically cuts down traversal time. If you're a seasoned Tarnished or a curious newcomer looking to understand the bleeding edge of Elden Ring gameplay, you've come to the right place. We're diving deep into this incredible run, the controversial glitch, and what it means for the future of speedrunning this monumental title.

Breaking the Unthinkable: 25:29

Achieving a sub-30 minute Any% run in Elden Ring was a monumental task, a goal many thought would take years to reach, if ever. Previous records hovered around the 30-minute mark, with runners meticulously optimizing every jump, every spell cast, and every enemy encounter. The sheer scale of the Lands Between makes any speedrun a testament to dedication and mastery of game mechanics.

However, the landscape of Elden Ring speedrunning has been irrevocably altered. The runner who set this astonishing 25:29 WR has utilized a technique that effectively skips vast sections of the game world. This isn't just about faster movement; it's about re-imagining the path to victory. Imagine the difference between walking across a continent and teleporting directly to your destination – that's the kind of impact this new glitch has.

"This glitch completely rewrites the Any% route. We're no longer bound by the intended map progression. It's both exhilarating and a little bit terrifying for the category."

Unleashing the Zip Glitch: A Game Changer?

The star of this record-breaking performance is undoubtedly the "zip glitch." While the full technical breakdown is complex and still being dissected by the community, the core of it involves manipulating the game's physics engine to achieve incredible bursts of speed and verticality. Effectively, it allows players to 'zip' across large distances or ascend to areas normally inaccessible.

During this record run, the runner masterfully executed this exploit multiple times. This isn't a simple out-of-bounds trick; it requires precise timing, specific character setups (though the exact build details are still being analyzed, it likely focuses on fast weapon weapon animations or specific ash of war usage), and an intimate understanding of enemy AI and environmental collision. The reliance on this specific glitch raises questions about the future of the Any% category. Is a run without it still considered the "true" Any%?

The runner themselves acknowledged this uncertainty in their post, noting: "(THIS GLITCH WILL MOST LIKELY BE BANNED FOR LEADERBOARD SUBMISSIONS)". This sentiment is echoed across forums and social media. While undeniably impressive from a technical standpoint, the reliance on a glitch that bypasses significant portions of the game's intended content often leads to debates within the speedrunning community about what constitutes a legitimate run. Some might argue for a new category, like "Any% Glitchless" or "Any% With Zip Glitch," to preserve the integrity of the original category.

Community Reaction and Future of Elden Ring Speedruns

The reaction from the gaming community has been a mix of awe and debate. On one hand, the sheer skill and execution required to pull off the zip glitch consistently under pressure are undeniable. This run showcases incredible player mastery. On the other hand, the speedrunning scene thrives on pushing the limits of intended game mechanics. The introduction of such a powerful, game-breaking exploit forces a re-evaluation of category rules and what defines a "completion" of the game.

This WR will undoubtedly spark a surge of interest in Elden Ring speedruns. More runners will attempt to master the zip glitch, pushing the time even lower. However, the established communities for games like Zelda speedruns often have strict rulesets that ban certain types of exploits. It remains to be seen how the official Elden Ring speedrunning community will handle this. Will they embrace the glitch as the new meta for Any%? Or will they create new categories to accommodate runs with and without such advanced techniques?

"The beauty of speedrunning is its constant evolution. New glitches are found, old strats are refined. This zip glitch is just the latest chapter in Elden Ring's speedrun story."

The potential for discovery in Elden Ring is vast. Even with this new glitch, there are likely still optimizations to be found in the movement, enemy routing, and boss strategies. The current record is likely just the beginning of a new era for Elden Ring speedrunning. It’s an exciting time to be a fan of speedrun gaming!

Key Segments and Strats

While a full, frame-by-frame breakdown would require its own guide, we can highlight some critical moments and strategies observed in this 25:29 WR:

  • Early Game Optimization: The initial stages are crucial for setting up the run. This likely involves acquiring specific starting weapons or builds that enable the zip glitch. Efficiently clearing early enemies and bosses is paramount.
  • The Zip Glitch Execution: The core of the run revolves around the precise execution of the zip glitch. This likely involves precise positioning, timing of attacks or item usage, and understanding how enemy animations or environmental geometry interact with the player character. Mastery here saves minutes.
  • Boss Skips and Strategies: With the ability to traverse the map rapidly, the runner can skip many optional bosses and even some required ones by using the glitch to bypass arenas or trigger specific events. For the bosses that must be fought, optimized boss fight strats are essential, likely focusing on high-damage powerful weapons or devastating spell combos.
  • Final Boss Encounter: The final boss fight needs to be executed flawlessly and rapidly. This often involves specific damage windows and attack patterns that the runner has practiced extensively. The goal is to end the fight as quickly as possible to shave off precious seconds.
  • Route Planning: The overall route is completely redesigned due to the zip glitch. It's no longer about a linear progression but about finding the most optimal sequence of glitch activations and mandatory encounters to reach the final boss in the shortest time. This demands a deep understanding of the game's world layout and trigger points.

This run showcases the pinnacle of gaming strategies and execution, pushing the boundaries of what's possible through sheer skill and exploit mastery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the "zip glitch" in Elden Ring speedruns?

The "zip glitch" is a newly discovered exploit in Elden Ring that allows players to achieve extreme bursts of speed and vertical traversal, effectively skipping large portions of the game map and significantly reducing run times. It's a complex mechanic involving precise timing and possibly specific item or weapon interactions.

Is this zip glitch allowed in official Elden Ring speedrun categories?

Currently, the status is debated. The runner who set the new world record acknowledged that this glitch would likely be banned from standard leaderboard submissions due to its game-breaking nature. New categories might be created to accommodate runs using this exploit.

How much time does the zip glitch save?

In this specific 25:29 world record, the zip glitch is estimated to have saved several minutes, allowing the runner to bypass numerous areas and bosses that would typically take much longer to traverse or defeat.

What are the implications for Elden Ring speedrunning?

The zip glitch has fundamentally changed the Any% category. It forces a re-evaluation of speedrunning rules and strategies. We might see the emergence of new categories focusing on glitchless runs, runs with specific allowed glitches, or even entirely new categories based on this exploit.

Where can I watch this record-breaking run?

You can find the world record run embedded above. It's a must-watch for any Elden Ring or speedrunning enthusiast!

This incredible feat is a testament to the dedication and innovation within the speedrunning community. As players continue to explore the depths of Elden Ring, we can only anticipate more astonishing records and discoveries.

What are your thoughts on this new speedrun WR? Do you think the zip glitch should be allowed in official categories? Share your opinions in the comments below! Let's discuss the future of Elden Ring speedrunning and what amazing gaming achievements we'll see next. Join our Discord server to connect with fellow gamers and speedrunners!

5 Speedrunners Who Pushed the Boundaries of the Impossible!

Ever found yourself staring at a video of a speedrunner absolutely destroying a game, thinking, "How is that even possible?" You're not alone. The world of speedrunning is a constant evolution of human ingenuity, pushing games to their absolute limits, and sometimes, well beyond them. This isn't about finding the best build or the strongest weapon in your typical #gamer fashion. This is about breaking the game itself. Today, we're diving deep into the extraordinary feats of five speedrunners who didn't just beat games; they achieved the seemingly impossible, shattering expectations and redefining what's possible in the realm of #speedrunning.

The Genesis of "Impossible" Speedruns

What exactly constitutes an "impossible" speedrun? It's a blend of incredible skill, deep game knowledge, and often, a healthy dose of luck with #RNG. These aren't just fast times; they're runs that utilize glitches, sequence breaks, and obscure mechanics in ways that were never intended by the developers. Think about games like Baldur's Gate, where intricate strategies can shave off hours, or classics like Halo 2, which is rife with opportunities for mind-bending skippages. The pursuit of the #WR (World Record) often leads runners down rabbit holes of discovery, uncovering exploits that drastically change the perceived difficulty and length of a game. These discoveries are what we're celebrating today.

The line between what's possible and impossible in gaming is constantly being redrawn by dedicated speedrunners.

The journey to an "impossible" achievement often starts with a single, groundbreaking discovery. A new glitch, a novel #speedrunningstrategy, or a better understanding of #game_mechanics can completely alter the landscape of a game's speedrun. This constant innovation is what keeps the #speedrunningcommunity vibrant and exciting. It’s not just about reflexes; it’s about intellect, dedication, and an almost obsessive pursuit of perfection. We’re talking about thousands of hours poured into understanding every frame, every pixel, every possible interaction within a digital world.

The Masters of Glitches and Skips

Let's dive into some of the individuals and achievements that truly stand out. While the video mentions specific games, we'll highlight the spirit of these accomplishments:

  • The "Beating a Game in Under a Minute" Phenomenon: Games like Minecraft have seen categories emerge where the goal is to finish the game at an absurd pace. This often involves intricate setup, precise execution of #glitches, and a deep understanding of world generation and mob behavior. Imagine spawning in, finding resources at lightning speed, and confronting the Ender Dragon within moments – a feat that requires absolute mastery and near-perfect #RNG.
  • Exploiting Game Logic for Zero-Second Finishes: Certain categories, particularly in older games or those with specific mechanics, can lead to near-instantaneous completion. This isn't magic; it's the result of discovering arbitrary code execution or warp glitches that bypass vast portions of the game. The #Pokemon speedrun example in the video likely refers to such an exploit, where a specific sequence of actions tricks the game into thinking the credits have rolled prematurely. This is peak #game_breaking ingenuity.
  • The "Plants vs. Zombies Without Sunflowers" Challenge: This showcases how understanding core game mechanics can lead to seemingly impossible challenges. In PvZ, sunflowers are the primary resource generator. Completing the game without them implies finding alternative, often incredibly difficult, ways to manage your arsenal and survive against waves of zombies. This requires a radical shift in strategy, prioritizing defenses and offensive power-ups in entirely new ways. This is a prime example of #GamingStrategies taken to the extreme.

Beyond Human Capability: TAS and Precision

When we talk about "impossible," sometimes we're not just talking about human limits, but about surpassing them through tools. Tool-Assisted Speedruns (TAS) use emulators to input commands frame-by-frame, allowing for a level of precision that's physically impossible for a human. This isn't cheating; it's a different form of speedrunning, often used to discover new optimal routes or demonstrate theoretical best times.

A prime example often cited in the #speedrunningcommunity is the Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion speedrun, where runners have pushed the boundaries of what’s achievable. While the video mentions beating it with a paintbrush (a humorous take on accessibility or challenge runs), the true "impossible" feats in games like Oblivion often involve complex glitch setups, like the infamous Oblivion speedrun techniques that manipulate AI or physics. Similarly, Super Mario 64’s Backwards Long Jump (BLJ) is a legendary exploit that allows Mario to gain immense speed by repeatedly performing a backward jump off a wall. Achieving the perfect BLJ sequence, especially for the 120-star category, requires immense precision and understanding of the game's physics engine.

The Backwards Long Jump in Super Mario 64 is a perfect example of a glitch that redefined the game's speedrunning potential.

These TAS runs and incredibly precise glitch executions are what inspire human runners. They show what's theoretically possible, driving the community to refine their own #speedrunningstrategies and push for new #WRs. It’s a fascinating interplay between man and machine, all in the name of speed.

The Community That Makes the Impossible Possible

No speedrunner achieves these incredible feats in a vacuum. The #GamingCommunity, especially the #speedrunningcommunity, is a collaborative ecosystem. Runners share discoveries, develop new #speedrunningstrategies, and help each other overcome difficult segments. The insights shared on platforms like Discord and Reddit are invaluable. What one runner discovers, others refine and build upon, leading to collective progress that feels impossible for any single individual.

These achievements aren't just about individual glory; they're about advancing the collective understanding of these games. Discoveries in Elder Scrolls speedruns, for example, often involve exploiting complex game systems that can even have implications for broader gaming strategies. The dedication to detail, the willingness to experiment, and the open sharing of knowledge are what make these "impossible" runs a reality. It’s a testament to the passion and collaborative spirit of gamers worldwide.

When you see a #PB (Personal Best) that's fractions of a second faster than the previous record, it’s often the culmination of countless hours of practice, research, and community input. The #speedrunningcommunity is a tight-knit group that celebrates innovation and pushes each other to new heights. This shared journey is as important as the destination itself.

FAQ: Your Speedrunning Questions Answered

What is the most common "impossible" speedrun category?

The "Any%" category, where the primary goal is to finish the game as quickly as possible with any means necessary, often features the most "impossible" feats due to the unrestricted use of glitches and exploits.

How do speedrunners find these impossible glitches?

It's a combination of extensive gameplay, experimentation, studying game code (for those with technical knowledge), and a lot of trial and error. Sometimes, a single frame of unusual behavior can lead to a major discovery.

Are TAS runs considered legitimate speedruns?

Yes, TAS runs are a recognized category within speedrunning. They demonstrate theoretical limits and often inspire human runners. However, they are distinct from human-performed speedruns.

What game is currently known for having the most "impossible" speedrun techniques?

Games with complex physics engines, deep scripting systems, or long histories of active speedrunning communities, like Super Mario 64, Minecraft, or older Elder Scrolls titles, often have the most intricate and "impossible" strategies.

How can I get started with speedrunning?

Start by picking a game you love and are familiar with. Watch existing speedruns for that game, join its community on platforms like Speedrun.com, and begin practicing. Many games have dedicated communities that offer beginner-friendly guides and resources. Learning to use tools like LiveSplit for timing is also crucial.

The world of speedrunning is a testament to human dedication and the endless possibilities within video games. These runners aren't just playing games; they're dissecting them, understanding them at a molecular level, and pushing them to perform feats that defy logic. What seems impossible today might be the standard speedrun strategy tomorrow. So, the next time you see a mind-blowing record, remember the hours of practice, the community collaboration, and the sheer audacity it took to achieve it. What are some of your favorite "impossible" speedrun moments? Share them in the comments below or join our Discord to discuss the latest strategies and discoveries!

Hello Neighbor Speedruns: Uncovering the Game-Breaking Exploits

Ah, Hello Neighbor. A game that promised a stealth horror experience, a tense cat-and-mouse game with an AI that would learn your every move. But for those of us in the trenches, pushing the boundaries of what's possible, it's become a playground for the absurd. The phrase "incredibly broken" doesn't even begin to cover it. Speedruns of Hello Neighbor are a testament to community ingenuity, showcasing how players can exploit every nook, cranny, and physics anomaly to achieve times that defy the game's intended design.

Why Hello Neighbor is 'Broken' for Speedrunning

When a game is described as "broken" by the speedrunning community, it usually implies that unintended mechanics and exploits have been discovered that drastically shorten playtime. Hello Neighbor fits this description perfectly. The AI, while designed to be adaptive, often falls prey to predictable patterns once players understand its limitations. More importantly, the game's physics engine and level design are riddled with opportunities for players to:

  • Skip entire sections of the house.
  • Manipulate enemy pathing to their advantage.
  • Utilize environmental objects in ways never intended by the developers.

These aren't just minor shortcuts; we're talking about sequences that can shave minutes off a run, turning what should be a lengthy infiltration into a lightning-fast dash. It's this "brokenness" that makes Hello Neighbor speedruns so compelling and, frankly, hilarious to watch.

Key Speedrunning Strategies and Glitches

The core of any speedrun lies in its strategies, and Hello Neighbor offers a rich tapestry of them. While the exact route and techniques can vary slightly between versions and updates, several key exploits are consistently employed:

The infamous 'Noclip' or 'Clipping' Glitches

One of the most significant ways players break the game is by clipping through walls or floors. This is often achieved by precise jumps, throwing objects, or utilizing specific environmental interactions. Mastering these clipping techniques is paramount for any serious Hello Neighbor runner.

In my experience, finding the right angle and timing for a successful clip is crucial. One frame off, and you're back to square one, facing the ever-vigilant Neighbor.

AI Manipulation and Pathing Exploits

The Neighbor's AI is designed to hunt you down. However, by strategically luring him into certain areas or interacting with the environment in specific ways, runners can make him predictable or even trap him. This often involves using thrown objects as distractions or triggering alarms from a safe distance.

Object Duplication and Physics Exploitation

Sometimes, the game's physics engine can be used to your advantage. Players have discovered ways to duplicate key items by carefully manipulating object collisions, or to propel themselves across vast distances using objects as makeshift projectiles. These physics exploits are often the most visually impressive and unexpected.

Early Access vs. Full Release Differences

It's important to note that the "brokenness" can differ significantly between game versions. Early access builds were notoriously more susceptible to game-breaking glitches and exploits. While the full release has patched many of these, the community has a knack for finding new ways to push the game's limits.

The Role of RNG in Hello Neighbor Speedruns

No speedrun is complete without a healthy dose of RNG (Random Number Generation). In Hello Neighbor, RNG plays a significant role in:

  • The placement of key items (like keys or crowbars).
  • The patrol patterns and awareness of the Neighbor.
  • The success rate of certain physics-based tricks.

Runners often have to adapt their routes on the fly based on what the game throws at them. A "good RNG" run can shave precious seconds, while a "bad RNG" run might require creative improvisation or even a reset. This unpredictability adds to the thrill and challenge of perfecting a Hello Neighbor speedrun.

The Community and Evolution of Hello Neighbor Speedruns

The Hello Neighbor speedrunning community, much like any other dedicated group, is constantly innovating. New strats are discovered, old ones are refined, and world records are consistently challenged. This drive to discover the absolute fastest way to complete the game is what makes speedrunning so exciting. Communities often gather on platforms like Discord and Twitch, sharing their findings, debating the merits of different techniques, and celebrating new personal bests (PBs) and world records (WRs).

It’s fascinating to see how a game initially designed for stealth and suspense can be twisted into a frantic race against the clock, all thanks to the community's relentless pursuit of optimization.

The pursuit of a perfect run involves not just mastering the game's mechanics but also understanding the game's underlying code and how it can be bent (or broken) to the runner's will. This deep dive into game design and exploitation is what elevates Hello Neighbor speedruns from simple playthroughs to intricate puzzles of execution.

Watching Hello Neighbor Speedruns

If you're looking to witness the "broken" nature of Hello Neighbor firsthand, I highly recommend checking out top runners on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. You'll see incredible displays of:

  • Glitchless Any% runs that still utilize clever AI manipulation and minor skips.
  • Any% runs that fully embrace the game-breaking exploits, often involving clipping through entire sections of the map.
  • Beginner-friendly guides that break down the fundamental techniques for new runners.

Watching these runs is not only entertaining but also incredibly educational if you're interested in picking up speedrunning yourself. You can find the current Hello Neighbor World Records on speedrun.com.

The sheer ingenuity on display in Hello Neighbor speedruns is a testament to the passion of the gaming community. What was once a suspenseful horror game has become a canvas for extreme optimization, where players use glitches and exploits to achieve impossible feats. It's a reminder that even in its most "broken" state, a game can provide endless entertainment and challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "broken" mean in the context of Hello Neighbor speedruns?

In speedrunning, "broken" refers to a game that has discovered exploits, glitches, or unintended mechanics that allow players to complete the game significantly faster than intended, often by bypassing large portions of the game or using mechanics in ways the developers did not foresee.

Are Hello Neighbor speedruns still relevant?

Yes! While the game has been out for some time, the speedrunning community is always discovering new strategies and pushing boundaries. The "broken" nature of the game ensures there's always something new to exploit or optimize.

What is the most common glitch used in Hello Neighbor speedruns?

Clipping through walls and floors using precise jumps and object interactions is one of the most consistently used and effective glitches in Hello Neighbor speedruns. This allows players to skip entire sections of the house.

Where can I find the fastest Hello Neighbor speedruns?

You can find the latest world records and top runs on dedicated speedrunning websites like speedrun.com, as well as on YouTube and Twitch by searching for "Hello Neighbor speedrun WR" or "Hello Neighbor any%".

Is speedrunning Hello Neighbor difficult?

It can be very challenging. Mastering the precise movements, AI manipulation, and glitch execution requires a lot of practice and dedication. However, there are also beginner-friendly categories and guides available if you're just starting out.

Los 5 Tool-Assisted Speedruns (TAS) Más Creativos que Rompieron la Realidad

Los 5 Tool-Assisted Speedruns (TAS) Más Creativos que Rompieron la Realidad

Un cerebro digital explotando con ideas creativas para Tool-Assisted Speedruns

¿Alguna vez te has preguntado qué pasaría si pudieras jugar una partida perfecta? No una partida buena, ni siquiera una de world record. Hablo de una partida frame-perfect, donde cada pulsación de botón, cada movimiento del joystick, se ejecuta en el instante exacto para lograr lo imposible. Bienvenido al alucinante y a menudo incomprensible mundo de los Tool-Assisted Speedruns, o como los conocemos en la comunidad, TAS.

Olvídate de los récords mundiales RTA (Real-Time Attack) que vemos en eventos como GDQ. Esto es otra liga. Un TAS no es un humano jugando en tiempo real; es un arte, una sinfonía de inputs programados frame a frame usando emuladores y herramientas especiales. El objetivo no es solo ser rápido, sino explorar, romper y reescribir las reglas fundamentales de un juego. Es la respuesta a la pregunta: "¿Qué es lo máximo que puede dar de sí este código?".

En este artículo épico para la ComunidadGamer, vamos a sumergirnos en las profundidades de la creatividad en el speedrunning. No hablaremos de los TAS más rápidos, sino de los más ingeniosos, aquellos que no solo terminaron el juego, sino que lo convirtieron en su lienzo. Prepárate para ver juegos que se transforman en otros, IA que es manipulada como una marioneta y glitches que parecen pura magia negra. ¡Vamos a ello!

¿Qué es Exactamente un Tool-Assisted Speedrun (TAS)?

Antes de sumergirnos en los ejemplos, es crucial entender la diferencia fundamental entre un TAS y un RTA (Real-Time Attack). Un RTA es lo que la mayoría conoce: un speedrunner humano, con su mando o teclado, jugando en tiempo real para conseguir el mejor tiempo posible. Depende de la habilidad, la memoria muscular y un poco de suerte con el RNG (Random Number Generation).

Un TAS, por otro lado, elimina la limitación humana. Se crea usando un emulador que permite:

  • Avanzar frame a frame: El creador del TAS (o "TASer") puede avanzar el juego un fotograma a la vez y registrar el input exacto para ese fotograma.
  • Savestates: Se pueden crear y cargar puntos de guardado en cualquier momento, permitiendo reintentar una sección miles de veces hasta encontrar la secuencia de inputs perfecta.
  • Manipulación de RNG: Al entender cómo funciona el generador de números aleatorios del juego, un TASer puede realizar acciones específicas para garantizar el resultado deseado, como conseguir un drop raro o un golpe crítico siempre.
Un TAS no es una persona jugando, es una secuencia de inputs pre-programada. Es una demostración teórica del límite absoluto de un videojuego, ejecutada por una máquina.

Por esto, los TAS no compiten con los récords humanos. Son categorías separadas. El propósito de un TAS es el descubrimiento, el arte y el entretenimiento, mostrando hazañas que ningún ser humano podría replicar jamás. Y a veces, estos descubrimientos abren la puerta a nuevas strats para los runners de RTA. Ahora sí, veamos la magia en acción.

1. El Origen del Caos: El "Credits Warp" de Super Mario World

Empezamos con un clásico absoluto, la piedra angular de los game breakers. Super Mario World es uno de los juegos más rotos y explorados de la historia, y el Credits Warp es su joya de la corona. En un juego normal, llegar a los créditos requiere derrotar a Bowser. En el mundo del TAS, solo necesitas un par de objetos y una ejecución perfecta.

La idea es simple en teoría, pero demencial en la práctica: corromper la memoria del juego para que te envíe directamente a la pantalla de créditos. La creatividad aquí no reside en la velocidad, sino en el ingenio para encontrar la secuencia de acciones que provoca este fallo catastrófico.

¿Cómo se logra este glitch?

El método más conocido, ejecutado por el legendario TASBot en eventos como AGDQ, implica una serie de pasos increíblemente precisos:

  1. Obtener un Yoshi y una Pluma: Necesarios para las interacciones que vienen después.
  2. Cargar ítems específicos: Se deben tener ciertos ítems en el inventario y en pantalla para que ocupen posiciones de memoria concretas.
  3. La ejecución frame-perfect: El jugador debe hacer que Yoshi se trague un objeto específico (como un Chargin' Chuck) mientras Mario es golpeado y pierde el power-up de la capa. Al mismo tiempo, debe escupir otro objeto.

Esta combinación de eventos, ejecutada en los frames exactos, escribe datos basura en una parte de la memoria RAM de la SNES que le dice al juego qué nivel cargar a continuación. Al sobreescribirla con los valores correctos, el juego se confunde y carga la secuencia de créditos. Este descubrimiento, popularizado por los TAS, cambió para siempre nuestra percepción de lo que significa "terminar" un juego.

2. Hacking en Kanto: Cuando Pokémon Yellow se Convirtió en un Lenguaje de Programación

Si el Credits Warp de SMW fue romper una puerta, lo que la comunidad TAS hizo con Pokémon Amarillo fue demoler el edificio entero y construir un rascacielos en su lugar. Aquí es donde el concepto de "creatividad" alcanza un nivel divino. Los TASers no solo terminaron el juego; lo convirtieron en una consola dentro de una consola.

El concepto clave aquí es el Arbitrary Code Execution (ACE). En términos sencillos, es un tipo de glitch que permite al jugador ejecutar su propio código dentro del juego. Es, literalmente, hackear el juego desde dentro, usando solo los inputs del mando.

Imagina usar la lista de objetos de tu mochila no para curar a tu Pikachu, sino para escribir líneas de código que transforman el juego en Pong, Snake o incluso un reproductor de música. Eso es el ACE en Pokémon.

La ejecución es una obra de arte de la manipulación de la memoria. Implica realizar una secuencia específica de acciones, como ver los datos de ciertos Pokémon, cambiar objetos de lugar en la mochila y hablar con NPCs en un orden determinado. Esto corrompe la memoria del juego de tal forma que, cuando se activa un evento concreto (como salir de una batalla), el juego no lee el código que debería, sino el "código" que el jugador ha "escrito" en su inventario. El resultado es uno de los momentos más POG de la historia del gaming.

3. Manipulando la Realidad de Hyrule: Ocarina of Time y el Stale Reference Manipulation

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time es otro titán del speedrun, y sus glitches son legendarios. Pero mientras los runners RTA se centran en skips y trucos para ganar segundos, los TASers se dedican a deconstruir la mismísima tela de la realidad de Hyrule. La técnica más alucinante es, sin duda, el Stale Reference Manipulation (SRM).

SRM es una forma avanzada de ACE. Ocurre cuando el juego intenta cargar o interactuar con un "actor" (un enemigo, un objeto, un NPC) que ya no existe en la memoria porque ha sido descargado. El juego, al no encontrar al actor original, entra en pánico y busca en una dirección de memoria "rancia" o "stale".

Aquí es donde entra el genio del TASer. Sabiendo esto, preparan esa zona de la memoria con datos personalizados. ¿Cómo? Llenándola con el contenido de un cofre, el nombre que le pones a Epona o incluso las notas que tocas con la ocarina. El juego lee esos datos como si fueran instrucciones y... ¡boom! El jugador toma el control total. Han usado SRM para cosas como:

  • Teletransportarse a cualquier lugar.
  • Darse cualquier objeto del juego.
  • Escribir texto en pantalla.
  • Y, por supuesto, provocar un "credits warp" para terminar el juego en minutos.

Este nivel de manipulación requiere un conocimiento casi académico del código del juego, algo que solo la dedicación de la comunidad TAS, con herramientas como las que se discuten en TASVideos.org, podría lograr.

4. La Voz de los Dioses: Rompiendo Brain Age con Sonidos Perfectos

No todos los TAS creativos se basan en corromper la memoria. A veces, la creatividad consiste en dominar sistemas de juego que parecen imposibles de controlar. Entra en escena Brain Age para Nintendo DS, un juego que utiliza el micrófono para el reconocimiento de voz.

Para un humano, decir "Azul" y que el juego lo reconozca es fácil. Pero, ¿y si pudieras generar la onda de sonido perfecta para que el juego no solo te entienda al instante, sino que lo haga más rápido de lo que fue diseñado? Los TASers de Brain Age no hablan al micrófono. En su lugar, alimentan al emulador con archivos de audio generados por ordenador. Estas ondas de sonido están tan optimizadas que el juego las procesa en el mínimo número de frames posible. El resultado es una cacofonía de pitidos y ruidos extraños para el oído humano, pero una sinfonía de eficiencia para la máquina.

Es un ejemplo brillante de cómo el TAS explora todas las facetas de un juego, no solo el movimiento y los botones, sino también las interfaces de entrada más exóticas.

5. Adivinando lo Imposible: El Dominio Psicológico sobre Family Feud

Para nuestro último ejemplo, vamos a un terreno completamente diferente: un juego de trivial. En Family Feud para la SNES, el objetivo es adivinar las respuestas más populares a una serie de preguntas. El reto para un TAS es doble:

  1. Escribir las respuestas increíblemente rápido. Esto es la parte fácil para un TAS.
  2. Saber qué respuestas dar. Aquí está la verdadera genialidad.

La IA del oponente en Family Feud tiene un comportamiento predecible. Los TASers estudiaron su código y descubrieron que, basándose en las respuestas ya dadas, la IA siempre elegirá su siguiente respuesta de una manera determinista. El TAS, por lo tanto, no solo da una respuesta correcta, sino que da la respuesta correcta que manipula a la IA para que elija una respuesta terrible o incorrecta en su turno.

Es una partida de ajedrez 4D. El TAS no solo está jugando el juego, está jugando contra la mente de la máquina, forzándola a cometer errores y despejando el camino para una victoria perfecta. Es una demostración de creatividad estratégica que va más allá de los glitches, adentrándose en la psicología de la inteligencia artificial del juego.

Preguntas Frecuentes sobre los TAS

¿Qué es un Tool-Assisted Speedrun (TAS)?

Un Tool-Assisted Speedrun es una secuencia de inputs creada con herramientas como emuladores, savestates y avance frame a frame. El objetivo no es ser jugado por un humano en tiempo real, sino mostrar la ejecución teóricamente perfecta de un speedrun, a menudo explotando glitches que serían imposibles de realizar para una persona.

¿Hacer un TAS se considera hacer trampas?

No. Los TAS y los speedruns RTA (Real-Time Attack) son categorías completamente separadas. Un TAS no pretende ser un récord humano. Su propósito es la exploración, el arte y el entretenimiento, mostrando los límites de un videojuego. Comparar un TAS con un RTA es como comparar una película de animación con un documental grabado en directo.

¿Cómo se crean los Tool-Assisted Speedruns?

Los TASers utilizan emuladores especializados que les permiten grabar una secuencia de inputs fotograma a fotograma. Pueden ralentizar el juego, probar diferentes acciones usando savestates y analizar la memoria del juego para entender y manipular su funcionamiento interno. Es un proceso laborioso que puede llevar cientos o miles de horas para un solo run.

¿Para qué sirve un TAS además de para el entretenimiento?

Los TAS son increíblemente útiles para la comunidad de speedrunning en general. A menudo, descubren nuevos glitches, rutas o estrategias (strats) que, aunque no se puedan replicar con la misma perfección, pueden ser adaptadas por los runners humanos para mejorar sus tiempos en RTA. Sirven como un campo de pruebas para lo que es teóricamente posible.

Conclusión: El Arte de Romper los Límites

Desde transformar un cartucho de Game Boy en un ordenador improvisado hasta manipular la psique de una IA de los 90, los Tool-Assisted Speedruns son mucho más que simples carreras contra el crono. Son una celebración de la curiosidad, el ingenio y la pasión que define a la GamingCommunity. Nos demuestran que, por muy bien que creamos conocer un juego, siempre hay una capa más profunda de código esperando a ser descubierta, un nuevo universo de posibilidades oculto tras un glitch.

Estos logros no son solo récords; son piezas de arte digital, testimonios de hasta dónde puede llegar la creatividad humana cuando se le dan las herramientas para desafiar las reglas. Son, en esencia, la máxima expresión del amor por los videojuegos.

Y ahora, te toca a ti. ¿Cuál es el TAS más alucinante que has visto? ¿Hay algún juego que te encantaría ver totalmente destrozado por la precisión de un TAS? ¡Comparte tus favoritos y tus ideas en los comentarios de abajo y únete a la conversación en nuestro Discord!