Super Mario 64 16 Star Speedrun Record: Cheese Achieves 15:39 Masterclass!

What's up, speedrunning community! Get ready to witness a new benchmark in the legendary Super Mario 64 speedrun scene. A phenomenal run has just been uploaded, and it’s a testament to sheer dedication and insane skill. We're talking about a new Personal Best (PB) in the highly competitive 16 Star category, clocking in at an astonishing 15 minutes and 39 seconds, achieved by the one and only Cheese. This isn't just a good run; it's a masterclass that pushes the boundaries of what we thought was possible. If you're a fan of classic platformers and the thrill of chasing fractions of a second, this is for you!

A New Record Shatters Expectations

The speedrunning world is buzzing, and for good reason. Cheese has delivered a performance that redefines excellence in the Super Mario 64 16 Star category. This particular run isn't just about hitting the 16-star goal; it's about the execution, the precision, and the sheer speed at which every movement is performed. For anyone who has ever tried a speedrun of this iconic game, you know how brutal the 16 Star category can be. Achieving a PB like this is a monumental feat.

Cheese's Ascent to the Top

Cheese has been a consistent force in the Super Mario 64 community for a long time. Their dedication to optimizing routes and perfecting strats is evident in every frame of this record-breaking run. Watching Cheese play is like watching a finely tuned machine. They navigate the levels with an almost preternatural understanding of the game's mechanics, executing complex maneuvers like

The precision required for these precise frame-perfect inputs is truly astounding. It’s a level of skill that many only dream of achieving.

This new PB of 15:39 is a significant improvement and sets a new standard for aspiring runners. It demonstrates that even in a game as thoroughly explored as Super Mario 64, there's always room for innovation and faster times. This is what makes the speedrun scene so exciting!

The 16 Star Category Explained

For newcomers to the game, the 16 Star category in Super Mario 64 is one of the most popular and challenging race against time. The goal is to reach the final Bowser fight by collecting only 16 Power Stars. This might sound like a lot, but it requires incredibly efficient routing and execution of specific glitches and skips to bypass entire sections of the game.

  • Objective: Reach the final Bowser in the Dark World.
  • Star Requirement: Collect a minimum of 16 Power Stars.
  • Difficulty: High, requiring deep knowledge of game mechanics and precise execution.
  • Key Elements: Utilizes several out-of-bounds glitches and sequence breaks.

This category is a fan favorite because it balances a significant challenge with a relatively shorter overall run time compared to categories like 70 Star or 120 Star. It’s a perfect showcase for high-level play and quick thinking. The pursuit of faster times in this category has driven countless hours of practice and innovation within the Comunidad Gamer.

Key Strategies and Skips in the Run

Cheese's 15:39 run is packed with optimized strats. While a full breakdown would require a dedicated video analysis, some key elements likely include:

  • Early Game Optimization: Efficient collection of the first few stars, likely including speedy runs through Bob-omb Battlefield and maybe Jolly Roger Bay.
  • BLJ (Backward Long Jump): The infamous BLJ is crucial for bypassing many doors and barriers, allowing runners to access later parts of the castle much earlier than intended. Mastering the precise angle and timing of a BLJ is a cornerstone of any good Super Mario 64 speedrun.
  • Mips Clip: This is a critical out-of-bounds glitch that allows runners to skip collecting certain stars, saving significant time. Executing this reliably requires perfect positioning and movement.
  • Specific Level Strats: Optimized routes within levels like Whomp's Fortress, Bowser in the Fire, and Hazy Maze Cave are essential. Every jump, every dive, every wall kick matters.
  • Fastest Bowser Fight Route: The route to and through the final Bowser fight needs to be flawless, minimizing any wasted movement.

In my experience, the Mips Clip is often the most nerve-wracking part for many runners. The slightest miscalculation can cost precious seconds or even end the run. Cheese's consistent execution here is a mark of their expertise.

The Role of RNG in Super Mario 64 Speedruns

No discussion of Super Mario 64 speedruns would be complete without mentioning RNG, or Random Number Generation. While skill is paramount, certain elements in the game are still subject to random factors that can significantly impact a run. In the 16 Star category, key RNG elements often include:

  • Mips the Rabbit's Location: Mips can appear in different locations, and having him appear near the player when needed saves time.
  • Star Placement: While the 16 stars are fixed, the exact behavior of certain game elements or enemy patterns can sometimes vary.
  • Object Spawns: The spawning of certain objects or enemies can occasionally be favorable or unfavorable.

A great runner like Cheese knows how to mitigate bad RNG and capitalize on good RNG. This run likely benefited from favorable RNG, but it was their masterful execution that truly sealed the deal.

Behind the Scenes: Editing and Music

A high-quality speedrun video isn't just about the gameplay; it's also about presentation. This incredible run was expertly edited by zayloox, whose work ensures that the viewer can follow every critical moment of Cheese's achievement. The choice of music is also vital for setting the mood. The outro track, "Super Mario 64 Staff Roll" by Helynt/GameChops, is a classic choice that resonates with long-time fans of the game and the series. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern production.

The editing really brings out the intensity of the run, making it incredibly satisfying to watch even if you're not a top-tier runner yourself.

Supporting the Speedrunning Scene

Watching Cheese's incredible run is inspiring! If you appreciate this kind of dedication to Hardcore Gaming and the speedrun community, there are several ways to show your support. Cheese streams live on Twitch, where you can watch them practice and attempt runs in real-time. Following them on Twitter and Instagram also keeps you updated on their latest achievements and future plans. Joining their Discord server is a great way to connect with Cheese and fellow fans.

Remember, supporting creators directly fuels the passion and dedication that drives events like AGDQ2020 and allows amazing content like this to be produced. Every follow, share, and cheer makes a difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 16 Star category in Super Mario 64?

The 16 Star category requires players to collect exactly 16 Power Stars to access the final Bowser fight and complete the game. It's a popular category known for its difficulty and reliance on glitches like the Backward Long Jump (BLJ) and Mips Clip.

Who is Cheese?

Cheese is a highly skilled speedrunner known for their exceptional performances in Super Mario 64, particularly in the 16 Star category. They are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of the game's speedrunning potential.

What is a PB in speedrunning?

PB stands for Personal Best. It represents the fastest time a runner has ever completed a specific game or category. Cheese's new 15:39 is their personal best for the Super Mario 64 16 Star run.

How important is RNG in Super Mario 64 speedruns?

RNG (Random Number Generation) plays a role, influencing factors like enemy positions or specific event triggers. While skill and strategy are paramount, favorable RNG can significantly help in achieving top times, and runners must learn to adapt to or mitigate unfavorable RNG.

Where can I watch Super Mario 64 speedruns?

You can watch live speedruns on Twitch, often by following specific runners like Cheese or by checking the leaderboards on speedrun.com. Many completed runs are also uploaded to YouTube.

This incredible 15:39 16 Star run by Cheese is a landmark achievement in the Super Mario 64 speedrunning community. It’s a reminder of the enduring legacy of this N64 classic and the passion of the players who continue to explore its limits. We're excited to see what Cheese and other runners will achieve next. What do you think of this new record? Let us know in the comments below or join the discussion on our GamingSpeedrun Discord server!

Top 10 World Record Speedruns at Games Done Quick: A Speedrunner's Dream

Hey there, fellow speed demons and gaming enthusiasts! Ever watched a Games Done Quick marathon and felt that surge of adrenaline as a runner pushes the boundaries of what's possible in a game? It's pure magic, right? We're talking about precision, dedication, and sometimes, a whole lot of luck with the RNG. Today, we're diving deep into the archives to celebrate some of the most mind-blowing World Record (WR) speedruns ever showcased at GDQ. Whether you're a seasoned speedrunner yourself or just a fan of incredible gaming feats, this list is for you. Get ready to be inspired!

What is Games Done Quick?

For those who might be new to the scene, Games Done Quick (GDQ) is a series of charity marathon events that feature incredible speedruns. These events, like Awesome Games Done Quick (AGDQ) and Summer Games Done Quick (SGDQ), raise millions of dollars for charities like the Prevent Cancer Foundation and Doctors Without Borders. The magic of GDQ lies not just in the phenomenal gameplay, but also in the passionate community that gathers to support the runners and the cause. It's a place where the **#ComunidadGamer** truly shines.

Why GDQ Matters for Speedrunning

GDQ has been instrumental in bringing speedrunning into the mainstream. It provides a massive platform for runners to showcase their skills, share their strategies, and connect with a global audience. Many runners achieve their personal bests (PBs) and world records during these events, often under immense pressure. The energy from the crowd, both online and in-person, is palpable and often pushes runners to achieve the seemingly impossible. Witnessing a new **#WR** being set live at GDQ is an unforgettable experience for any gamer.

The Top 10 World Record Speedruns

This list is a curated selection based on impact, technical difficulty, and sheer spectacle. In my experience, these runs represent the pinnacle of dedication and skill.

1. Super Mario 64 - 0 Star Speedrun

This classic is a staple of speedrunning, and the 0 Star category is notorious for its precise movement and complex glitches. Watching runners navigate the castle without collecting any stars is a masterclass in exploiting game mechanics.

2. Ocarina of Time - Any% Speedrun

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time has a massive and dedicated speedrunning community. The Any% category, focusing on reaching the end credits as fast as possible, is filled with ingenious skips and sequence breaks that fundamentally change how you perceive the game.

3. Super Metroid - Any% Speedrun

Super Metroid is another cornerstone of the speedrunning world. The Any% run here is all about maximizing Samus's movement capabilities, utilizing techniques like "wall jumping" and precise bomb placements to traverse Planet Zebes at breakneck speed.
The dedication shown by runners in games like Super Metroid is astounding. It's not just about beating the game; it's about understanding its very code.

4. Portal - Any% Speedrun

Portal's Any% run is a testament to clever puzzle-solving and precise portal placement. Runners often use advanced techniques to bypass entire sections of the game, demonstrating an intimate knowledge of the game's physics engine.

5. Celeste - Any% Speedrun

Celeste is a relatively modern game that has exploded in the speedrunning community due to its tight controls and challenging platforming. The Any% run is a blur of perfect jumps and dashes, showcasing incredible muscle memory.

6. Hollow Knight - Any% Speedrun

This Metroidvania gem offers a challenging and rewarding speedrunning experience. The Any% run in Hollow Knight involves efficient combat, strategic route planning, and mastery of movement abilities to reach the end as quickly as possible.

7. Bloodborne - Any% Speedrun

For fans of Souls-like games, the Bloodborne Any% speedrun is a spectacle of aggression and boss-slaying prowess. Runners optimize every encounter, often using clever tricks and weapon synergies to defeat the game's formidable foes with unprecedented speed.
Seeing a runner nail a difficult trick in Bloodborne that saves them precious seconds is pure dopamine for any speedrunning fan.

8. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice - Any% Speedrun

Similar to Bloodborne, Sekiro's speedrun is a display of intense combat skill and knowledge of enemy attack patterns. The deflections, dodges, and combat arts are executed with flawless timing.

9. Doom Eternal - Any% Speedrun

Doom Eternal is a high-octane shooter, and its speedrun is no different. Runners utilize the game's extensive arsenal and movement mechanics in a frantic ballet of destruction, optimizing every fight and traversal segment.
The sheer speed and aggression in a Doom Eternal speedrun are breathtaking. It's a perfect marriage of chaos and control.

10. Elden Ring - Any% Speedrun

Elden Ring, the latest open-world epic from FromSoftware, has quickly become a favorite for speedrunners. The Any% category involves navigating the vast world, utilizing powerful builds and sometimes exploiting glitches to reach the final boss incredibly fast. It's a testament to how quickly the community can deconstruct and master a new game.

Runner Spotlight: The Minds Behind the Records

Behind every World Record is an individual, or sometimes a team, who has dedicated countless hours to mastering a game. These runners pour over frame data, experiment with obscure glitches, and practice routes until they become second nature. Their dedication is what fuels the **#CommunityDebate** and innovation within speedrunning. We often see runners like Narcissa Wright, Kosmic, BubblesDeluxe, and many others achieving incredible feats. Their passion for games like Baldur's Gate or any percent runs is what makes GDQ so special.

The Future of Speedrunning at GDQ

The landscape of speedrunning is constantly evolving. With new games releasing all the time and older games being revisited with fresh eyes, the potential for new discoveries and WRs is endless. GDQ continues to be a driving force, providing a stage for these incredible achievements. It's exciting to think about what new categories and incredible runs we'll see in the future, perhaps even in games from CD Projekt Red or indie darlings that capture the community's imagination. The spirit of **#ChallengeRun** is alive and well!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the difference between Any% and 100% speedruns?
  • Any% means finishing the game as fast as possible, regardless of completion percentage. 100% requires completing all objectives or collecting all items before finishing.
  • How do runners practice for speedruns?
  • Runners typically practice by playing segments of the game repeatedly, using save states or practice tools to isolate difficult sections. They also study existing runs and discuss strategies with other players.
  • Can anyone submit a run to GDQ?
  • Yes, GDQ accepts run submissions from the community. Selected runs are then scheduled for the marathons.
  • What is RNG in speedrunning?
  • RNG stands for Random Number Generator. It refers to elements in a game that are random, like enemy drops or spawn locations, which can significantly impact a speedrun's time. Mastering RNG manipulation or adapting to it is key.
So there you have it – a glimpse into the electrifying world of GDQ World Record speedruns! These achievements are more than just fast times; they represent the passion, ingenuity, and sheer determination of the gaming community. Which of these runs blew your mind the most? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below, and join our Discord server to discuss all things speedrunning! Your feedback fuels our content, just like runner strats fuel a new PB. Keep running fast, and keep gaming strong!