Super Mario 64 Speedruns: Mastering the 120 Star World Record

Mario Speedrunning Super Mario 64

Hey there, fellow speedrunners and Mario fans! Ever watched a Super Mario 64 speedrun and thought, "How on earth do they do that?" You're in the right place. Today, we're diving deep into the incredible world of Super Mario 64 speedruns, focusing on the ultimate challenge: the 120 Star category. This isn't just about beating the game; it's about breaking it, understanding its deepest mechanics, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Get ready to learn the strats, the glitches, and the sheer dedication it takes to achieve a top-tier WR.

What is SM64 Speedrunning?

Super Mario 64, a titan of the Nintendo 64 era, is one of the most iconic and deeply analyzed speedrun games in history. Its 3D platforming freedom and intricate level design opened up a universe of possibilities for sequence breaking and optimization. Speedrunning SM64 involves completing the game as fast as possible, typically by collecting a specific number of stars or reaching the end credits through any means necessary. It's a testament to player skill, game knowledge, and relentless practice.

For many, the allure of SM64 speedruns lies in its accessibility and the sheer depth of its mechanics. Unlike games with heavily scripted events, SM64 allows for a high degree of player expression and emergent strategies. This has led to an incredibly dedicated community constantly discovering new techniques and refining old ones.

The Main SM64 Speedrun Categories

While the 120 Star run is often seen as the ultimate test, Super Mario 64 boasts several popular speedrun categories:

  • 0 Star (or 16 Star): This category focuses on reaching the final Bowser fight as quickly as possible using major glitches and sequence breaks to bypass the need for most stars. It's incredibly technical and relies heavily on specific inputs and setups.
  • 70 Star: A popular middle-ground category that requires collecting 70 stars to access the final Bowser fight. This category balances the fast-paced glitch execution of the 0-star run with more traditional star collecting.
  • 120 Star: The pinnacle of SM64 speedrun. This category demands the collection of every single star in the game. It's a true test of endurance, precision, and comprehensive game knowledge, as every star must be collected as efficiently as possible.

Each category has its own unique set of challenges and optimal strategies. The 120 Star category, in particular, requires an intimate understanding of every level, every enemy, and every precise movement.

Mastering the 120 Star Run

The 120 Star run in Super Mario 64 is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires near-perfect execution across dozens of stars, each with its own optimal path. Achieving a top-tier PB (Personal Best) or even a World Record in this category is a monumental achievement. It's not just about speed; it's about consistency and minimizing downtime between stars.

In my experience, the key to success in the 120 Star run is breaking it down. Instead of trying to memorize one massive route, focus on mastering individual levels and the sequences of stars within them. For example, perfecting the triple jump and wall kick techniques in the early levels is crucial for saving precious seconds that add up significantly over the course of the run.

"The 120 Star run isn't just about collecting stars; it's about executing every single movement with absolute perfection. One tiny mistake can cost you the run."

Optimizing movement is paramount. This means mastering techniques like:

  • Long Jumps: Essential for crossing gaps quickly.
  • Triple Jumps: For reaching higher platforms and covering distance.
  • Wall Kicks: Crucial for verticality and chaining movements.
  • Dive Cancels: Used to maintain momentum and position Mario precisely.

Furthermore, understanding enemy patterns and object spawns can shave off valuable milliseconds. Knowing exactly when and where a Goomba will appear, or how a coin will be positioned, can make the difference between a good split and a great one.

Essential Strats and Skips

Even in a 120 Star run, efficiency is king. Certain "skips" or optimized strats are vital:

  • Infinite Wall Kicks (IWK): While not strictly a skip, mastering the ability to chain wall kicks indefinitely allows Mario to ascend certain walls much faster than intended.
  • BLJ (Backwards Long Jump): Though most famous in the 0-star category for breaking the game's progression, specific, shorter BLJs can still be used in 120-star runs to gain access to certain areas or stars slightly faster, provided they don't violate category rules.
  • Object Duplication: Advanced techniques allowing players to duplicate objects, sometimes used to gain height or trigger events faster.

For the 120 Star run, the focus is often on optimizing the collection of each star rather than massive sequence breaks. For instance, knowing the fastest way to enter and exit each castle level, or the precise path through an obstacle course, is key. The "Princess's Secret Slide" star, for example, has a highly optimized route that relies on precise slides and jumps to finish in under 20 seconds.

Key Glitches and Exploits

While the 120 Star category generally aims to avoid major game-breaking glitches that skip entire sections, minor exploits and glitches are often necessary for optimization. These include:

  • Mips Clip: A well-known trick where Mario can clip through Mips the rabbit to collect him faster in certain stars.
  • Object Duplication Glitches: As mentioned, these can sometimes provide shortcuts or faster access to objectives.
  • Menuing: Quick and precise navigation through menus to save time when quitting levels or switching cameras.

Understanding these glitches is crucial, not necessarily to break the game, but to perform the most efficient actions within the game's engine. It’s a delicate balance between pushing the game's limits and staying within the defined rules of the category. The community at speedrun.com meticulously documents these techniques.

"The beauty of SM64 speedrunning is how the community has uncovered abilities and exploits that even the developers might not have foreseen."

The infamous BLJ, or Backwards Long Jump, is perhaps the most famous exploit in SM64. While it's essential for categories like 0-star, its application in 120-star is much more limited, focusing on minor time saves rather than progression skips.

Understanding RNG in SM64

Random Number Generation (RNG) plays a significant role in SM64 speedruns, even in the 120 Star category. Things like enemy spawn locations, coin placement, and the behavior of certain interactable objects can vary. While top runners strive to minimize reliance on good RNG, understanding how to manipulate or adapt to it is vital.

For example, some stars require collecting a certain number of coins. The exact placement of these coins can sometimes be slightly randomized. A good runner knows the general areas where coins spawn and can quickly adapt their path to collect them efficiently, regardless of their precise initial positions. Similarly, the erratic movement of enemies like the Piranha Plants in "Fire in the Deep Freeze" can impact run times if not approached with the right strategy.

Training and Practice

Becoming a top SM64 speedrunner requires thousands of hours of practice. This typically involves:

  • Segmented Practice: Focusing on mastering individual stars or small groups of stars until they are consistent.
  • Full Run Practice: Attempting complete runs to build endurance and practice transitions between segments.
  • Watching Top Runners: Studying the techniques and strategies of the best players, often found on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
  • Utilizing Practice Tools: Some runners use external tools or in-game savestates to practice difficult tricks repeatedly.

The dedication needed is immense. Many runners spend hours each day refining their inputs, analyzing their VODs (Video On Demand), and discussing strategies with other players.

The SM64 Speedrunning Community

The Super Mario 64 speedrunning community is one of the most vibrant and established in the world. Platforms like Discord, Reddit, and Twitch are hubs for discussion, strategy sharing, and competition. Resources like speedrun.com provide leaderboards, guides, and forums that are invaluable for aspiring runners.

This community is what keeps the game alive and pushes its boundaries. New discoveries are made regularly, and existing records are constantly being challenged. Whether you're aiming for a world record or just want to improve your personal best, the SM64 community is often welcoming and supportive.

Engaging with the community is key. Don't hesitate to ask questions on Discord servers or forums. Watching streams of top players like Cheese, Simply, or Suigi is also incredibly insightful. You'll learn not just the "what" but the "why" behind their precise movements and decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the current world record for Super Mario 64 120 Star?

The world record is constantly being broken, but as of recent updates, it's held by elite runners pushing times under the 1 hour and 37-minute mark. Always check speedrun.com for the absolute latest record.

Q2: Is Super Mario 64 still popular for speedrunning?

Absolutely! It remains one of the most consistently popular and actively played speedrun categories across all games. Its depth and the ongoing discovery of new techniques keep it fresh.

Q3: What's the easiest star to get in SM64 for a beginner?

Stars in the first castle level, like "Back Wolfenback" or "Plummeting Platform," are generally considered easier due to simpler mechanics and less complex level design.

Q4: Do I need a specific version of Super Mario 64 to speedrun?

Yes, the most common and standardized version for speedrunning is the Japanese version of the game on N64, due to its optimal timing and lack of certain glitches present in other versions.

Q5: How long does it take to learn a 120 Star run?

Learning the route and achieving consistent execution can take months, if not years, of dedicated practice. Improvement is gradual but rewarding.

So there you have it! A deep dive into the exhilarating world of Super Mario 64 120 Star speedruns. It's a challenging, rewarding, and endlessly fascinating pursuit that showcases the incredible potential of player skill and game mastery. Whether you're inspired to start your own journey or just appreciate the dedication involved, the SM64 speedrunning scene is a testament to the enduring power of this classic.

What are your favorite SM64 speedrun tricks? Have you ever attempted a run yourself? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Join our Discord community to connect with fellow runners and discuss strategies!

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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!

Speedrunning Super Mario 64 Within Minecraft: A Glitch-Hunter's Paradise

The speedrunning community is always pushing boundaries, and sometimes, those boundaries are not just about in-game exploits, but about the very fabric of the games we play. What happens when you take a legendary speedrunning titan like Super Mario 64 and transplant its core mechanics into the blocky, versatile world of Minecraft? The result, as explored by creators like Simply and SmallAnt, is a fascinating blend of familiar challenges and new, unexpected hurdles. This isn't just a simple playthrough; it's a deep dive into a custom-built challenge that tests both original game knowledge and the adaptability of Minecraft's mechanics.
The intention behind such a project is clear: to recreate the thrill of a classic speedrun within a completely different engine, demanding new strategies and potentially uncovering entirely new glitches or skips. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Super Mario 64's level design and the creative freedom offered by Minecraft. For the hardcore gamer, the idea of tackling iconic objectives like collecting all 120 stars in this new environment is an irresistible prospect.

What Exactly is Mario 64 in Minecraft?

At its core, "Mario 64 in Minecraft" refers to ambitious community projects that aim to rebuild or simulate the gameplay of Super Mario 64 within the Minecraft engine. This often involves meticulously recreating levels, enemies, and even core mechanics like Mario's movement and jumping abilities. The most dedicated creators, like the mentioned pdxdylan, invest countless hours into this process, turning Minecraft into a canvas for classic game experiences. It’s a form of digital archaeology, preserving and reinterpreting beloved gameplay through a modern, blocky lens. This undertaking taps into the creative spirit of the #ComunidadGamer, where passion projects flourish.

The Speedrunning Challenge: Adapting Strats

The real magic happens when speedrunners like Simply take on these meticulously crafted Minecraft recreations. The goal remains the same: complete the game – or specific objectives within it – as fast as possible. However, the transition from the original N64 hardware to Minecraft's engine introduces a host of new variables. * **Movement Physics**: Mario's precise, floaty jump in the original is notoriously difficult to replicate perfectly. Minor differences in Minecraft's physics can drastically alter established speedrunning **strats**. * **Level Design Differences**: Even if levels are recreated faithfully, subtle environmental differences can open up or close off certain **skips**. A wall might have a slightly different hitbox, or a platform might be a single block off. * **New Exploits**: Conversely, the very nature of Minecraft's complex block-based system and command block capabilities can lead to unforeseen glitches and exploits that speedrunners can leverage. In my own experience with similar projects, adapting to these changes is half the battle. You can't simply apply your existing knowledge; you have to experiment, observe, and often, re-learn routes from scratch. It's this process of discovery that makes speedrunning so compelling.

Glitches and Skips in This New World

The hunt for **glitches** and **skips** is the lifeblood of any speedrun, and "Mario 64 in Minecraft" is no exception. Given the custom nature of these builds, the potential for unique exploits is immense. Developers like pdxdylan might inadvertently create opportunities for players to clip through walls using specific block interactions or to gain unintended momentum. Speedrunners then meticulously analyze these moments.
The thrill of discovering a new skip that shaves precious seconds off a run is unparalleled. It’s like finding a secret passage in a familiar dungeon, but this dungeon is built out of blocks.
The **RNG** (Random Number Generation) elements in Minecraft, while often related to world generation or mob spawning, can also subtly influence the timing of certain events or the behavior of custom entities within these Mario 64 simulations, adding another layer of unpredictability.

SmallAnt's Role in the Experiment

SmallAnt, a prominent Minecraft content creator known for his creative challenges and entertaining videos, brings his unique brand of gameplay to this experiment. While Simply focuses on replicating the core speedrunning **strats** of Super Mario 64, SmallAnt often approaches these scenarios with a more playful, discovery-oriented mindset. His involvement suggests a broader appeal, showcasing that these complex projects aren't just for elite speedrunners but also for a general gaming audience. His "hide and seek" challenges, often seen in titles like Super Mario Odyssey, hint at how he might interact with the Mario 64 Minecraft world – perhaps testing its boundaries in unexpected ways or engaging in unique challenges beyond a traditional speedrun. It's this cross-pollination of ideas from different gaming disciplines that makes the #ComunidadGamer so vibrant.

The Community's Reaction

The reception to these "game-within-a-game" projects is usually overwhelmingly positive. Viewers are fascinated by the dedication required to build such intricate simulations and intrigued by the prospect of seeing classic games through a new lens. The community often rallies around these creators, offering suggestions, reporting bugs, and cheering on successful runs. It fosters a sense of shared accomplishment. Seeing a creator like Simply tackle a 120-star run in this custom environment isn't just about watching a fast playthrough; it’s about appreciating the ingenuity of both the builder and the runner. This collaborative spirit is what fuels many of the #CommunityDebate discussions on platforms like Reddit and Discord.
This is the kind of hardcore gaming content that truly pushes the envelope. It’s not just playing a game; it’s deconstructing and rebuilding it.

Potential for Future Runs

The "Mario 64 in Minecraft" concept is a fertile ground for continuous innovation. As builders refine their creations and speedrunners discover new **strats** and glitches, the potential for faster times and more impressive feats grows. We might see: * More ambitious recreations, perhaps focusing on specific categories like "16-star" or "0-star" runs. * The integration of more complex mechanics or even enemy AI from the original game. * Community challenges and competitions built around these Minecraft maps. The dedication shown by creators like pdxdylan and runners like Simply and SmallAnt ensures that the legacy of Super Mario 64 continues to evolve, offering fresh challenges for a new generation of players and speedrunners. It’s a testament to the enduring power of classic game design and the boundless creativity of the #Gaming community. For those interested in the cutting edge of speedrunning and game modification, keeping an eye on these projects is a must. You can often find discussions and progress updates on forums like speedrun.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is "Mario 64 in Minecraft" an official game?
A: No, "Mario 64 in Minecraft" refers to fan-made projects where creators meticulously rebuild levels and mechanics of Super Mario 64 within the Minecraft sandbox. These are not official Nintendo products.

Q: Who created the Mario 64 build in Minecraft?
A: While many individuals contribute to such projects, pdxdylan is credited as a significant creator for the build featured in the context of Simply and SmallAnt's collaboration.

Q: Can you get a World Record (WR) in "Mario 64 in Minecraft"?
A: Yes, speedrunners can set records for completing specific objectives within these custom Minecraft maps. These records are often tracked within the custom map's community or on platforms dedicated to speedrunning specific versions or mods.

Q: Are the glitches found in "Mario 64 in Minecraft" the same as in the original game?
A: Not necessarily. While some original glitches might be replicated, the different engine and implementation in Minecraft often lead to unique exploits and skips that are specific to the custom build.

Q: Where can I find more videos of this?
A: You can typically find videos of these runs on YouTube by searching for terms like "Simply Mario 64 Minecraft," "SmallAnt Mario 64," or "Mario 64 Minecraft speedrun."

In conclusion, the fusion of Super Mario 64's iconic speedrunning challenges within the boundless creativity of Minecraft is a testament to the enduring spirit of gaming innovation. It’s a space where meticulous builders and lightning-fast runners collaborate to push the limits of what's possible. Whether you're a seasoned speedrunner looking for a new challenge or a curious gamer fascinated by these crossover projects, there's immense enjoyment to be found. What are your thoughts on this incredible fusion? Have you attempted any Mario 64 recreations in Minecraft? Share your experiences, glitches you've found, or your favorite speedrunning moments in the comments below! Join our Discord server to connect with fellow gamers and speedrunning enthusiasts. Let's keep the conversation going!