I Speedran Cursed Mario 64: My Ultimate Challenge Achieved

What’s up, fellow gamers and speedrunning enthusiasts! You’re watching EazySpeezy, and today, we’re diving headfirst into something truly wild: a speedrun of a *cursed* version of Super Mario 64. If you’ve ever thought you’d seen it all in the world of Mario 64 speedruns, think again. This run pushed the limits, and honestly, I think it might be my greatest accomplishment yet. For those new here, my channel often explores the more casual side of speedrunning, but I love showcasing epic runs, breaking down the strategies, and hopefully, inspiring you to jump in yourself. Speedrunning is pure, unadulterated fun, and tackling a challenge like this cursed version? That's next-level engagement.

What Exactly is Cursed Mario 64?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the speedrun itself, let's clarify what "cursed" means in this context. This isn't just a slightly harder difficulty; we're talking about a modified version of the game, often built upon by community creators. One such notable creation is the Super Mario 64 FPS mod. These mods can introduce a plethora of unpredictable elements, turning a familiar playground into a chaotic gauntlet. Think altered physics, unexpected enemy behavior, modified level layouts, or even entirely new, bizarre mechanics. It’s designed to break the established rules of the game, forcing runners to improvise constantly.

The Unique Challenge of a Cursed Run

Tackling a speedrun of a standard game like Super Mario 64 is one thing; mastering a *cursed* version is an entirely different beast. The core challenge lies in its inherent unpredictability. You can’t rely on muscle memory or established **speedrun** routes that have been optimized over years. Every playthrough can feel like a fresh, terrifying experience. In my experience, the biggest hurdle is the mental fortitude required. You have to be ready for anything. A sequence that worked perfectly ten times before might suddenly become impossible due to a new, "cursed" mechanic manifesting. This requires not just technical skill but immense patience and the ability to quickly analyze and adapt your **strats**. The **RNG** (Random Number Generation) can be brutal, throwing curveballs when you least expect them.
The unpredictability of a cursed run tests your nerves as much as your skills. It’s a constant battle against the unknown.
This kind of run blurs the lines between traditional **speedrunning** and a form of chaotic challenge run. You’re not just beating the game as fast as possible; you’re wrestling with a version of the game that actively tries to impede you in new and inventive ways.

Key Strats and Potential Skips

While every cursed run is unique, the goal remains the same: reach the end credits as quickly as possible. This means identifying and exploiting any potential **skips** or shortcuts the mod allows, or even finding ways to work around the new "cursed" elements. For this specific run, leveraging the physics of the Super Mario 64 FPS mod was crucial. The altered gravity and movement mechanics can open up new possibilities for traversal. Instead of traditional wall jumps or precise platforming, you might be looking at long-distance jumps or exploiting glitches that wouldn't exist in the original game. Identifying which cursed elements are detrimental and which, if any, can be unintentionally beneficial is key. Sometimes, a bug introduced by the mod can actually become a feature for a runner. It's all about experimentation and deep understanding of the modified game's engine.
I spent countless hours practicing specific segments, trying to find the most consistent ways to navigate the cursed landscape. There were moments where I thought a particular **glitch** or sequence was impossible, only to discover a new technique after hours of trial and error. This is where the true heart of **speedrun** discovery lies – pushing boundaries and finding the unseen paths.

Navigating RNG and Adapting on the Fly

The **RNG** in a cursed run is like a capricious game master. Sometimes it’s generous, other times it feels downright malicious. You might encounter specific enemy patterns or environmental hazards that completely disrupt your intended route. This is where adaptation comes in. Instead of sticking rigidly to a plan that’s no longer viable, you need to think on your feet. What’s the next best option? Can I take a different path? Is there a way to mitigate the current hazard quickly?
The ability to pivot and change your strategy mid-run is what separates a good run from a great one, especially in a cursed game.
Developing contingency plans for common **RNG** occurrences is vital. Knowing that if *X* happens, you’ll attempt *Y* strategy, can save precious seconds and prevent a run from ending prematurely. It’s a constant mental chess match.

My Personal Best and the Grind

Achieving a Personal Best (**PB**) in a run like this is incredibly rewarding. It represents hundreds, if not thousands, of hours of practice, frustration, and sheer determination. The grind is real. There are countless failed attempts, moments of wanting to quit, and then that one perfect run where everything clicks. This **WR** (World Record) attempt, in particular, felt different. There was a sense of accomplishment that went beyond just the final time. It was about conquering a version of a beloved game that was intentionally designed to be difficult and unpredictable. It’s a testament to the community’s creativity and the enduring appeal of Super Mario 64. Watching the **streaming** VODs back, I can pinpoint the exact moments where I had to dig deep, push through a tough section, or capitalize on a lucky break. These are the moments that define a great **speedrun**.

Behind the Scenes: The Super Mario 64 FPS Mod

It’s important to give credit where credit is due. The Super Mario 64 FPS mod, created by @MixMorris, is what makes runs like this even possible. This mod fundamentally changes the game's engine, allowing for first-person perspective and significantly altering physics, including gravity and movement speed. This is not just a visual overhaul; it’s a deep modification that opens up entirely new ways to play and, consequently, new ways to **speedrun**. Without such innovative community projects, the landscape of **speedrunning** wouldn't be nearly as diverse or exciting. You can check out the world record run for the standard game to see the contrast and appreciate the journey players take.

Joining the Community

The **speedrunning** community is what makes this hobby so special. It’s a global network of passionate players constantly sharing knowledge, pushing boundaries, and supporting each other. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran chasing a **WR** or a newcomer just curious about how a **speedrun** works, there’s a place for you. If you’re inspired by runs like this and want to learn more, dive into resources like **speedrun**.com. You can find leaderboards, guides, and connect with other players. Don’t hesitate to join our Discord channel to chat with like-minded individuals and get tips on your own **speedrun** adventures. The camaraderie and shared passion are truly infectious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "cursed" game in the context of speedrunning?

A "cursed" game typically refers to a modified version of a game that introduces unpredictable, often difficult, or bizarre elements. These modifications can alter gameplay mechanics, level design, or enemy behavior, creating a unique challenge for speedrunners.

Is playing cursed versions of games difficult?

Yes, immensely. Cursed versions are designed to be unpredictable and break established strategies. Runners need exceptional adaptability, problem-solving skills, and mental fortitude to succeed, often dealing with unexpected glitches and challenging RNG.

How can I get started with speedrunning Super Mario 64?

You can start by watching tutorials and guides on platforms like YouTube and speedrun.com. Begin with the standard version of the game to learn the fundamental routes and techniques. Once you're comfortable, you can explore different categories or mods.

Where can I find the Super Mario 64 FPS mod?

The Super Mario 64 FPS mod was created by @MixMorris. You can often find links to such community projects on dedicated gaming forums, modding websites, or by searching on platforms like YouTube where creators showcase their work and provide download information.

What is the difference between a PB and a WR?

PB stands for Personal Best, which is the fastest time a specific player has ever completed a game or category. WR stands for World Record, which is the fastest time achieved by *any* player globally in that specific game and category.