What is the fastest speedrun in Super Mario 64?

Answered by Ricardo McCardle

The fastest speedrun in Super Mario 64, as of the time of this writing, stands at an astonishingly fast 6 minutes and 27 seconds. This impressive feat was achieved by a YouTube user going by the name Kanno, who managed to beat the previous world record by a mere two seconds. It’s truly mind-boggling to think about the level of skill and precision required to complete the game in such a short amount of time.

Speedrunning, for those unfamiliar with the term, is the act of completing a video game as quickly as possible. It has become a popular phenomenon within the gaming community, with players pushing the boundaries of what was once thought possible. Super Mario 64 is no exception, and it has long been a staple for speedrunners looking to test their skills and set new records.

The game itself, released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, is a beloved classic that revolutionized the platforming genre. It introduced players to an expansive 3D world filled with secrets, challenges, and of course, the iconic plumber himself, Mario. The goal of the game is to collect Power Stars by completing various objectives within each level, ultimately leading to a showdown with the final boss, Bowser.

To achieve such a fast speedrun in Super Mario 64, players must utilize a variety of advanced techniques and glitches. These techniques often involve precise movements, precise timing, and exploiting the game’s mechanics to skip large portions of the levels. One commonly used technique is known as “BLJ” or “Backwards Long Jump,” which allows players to build up incredible speed and traverse long distances in a matter of seconds.

In addition to these advanced techniques, speedrunners also meticulously plan their routes through the game, optimizing every movement and decision to shave off precious seconds. They study the game’s layouts, enemy patterns, and level designs to find the most efficient path to victory. It’s a constant process of trial and error, with speedrunners constantly refining their strategies and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

The Super Mario 64 speedrunning community is a tight-knit group of dedicated individuals who share a passion for the game and the thrill of breaking records. They often collaborate and compete with each other, sharing tips, tricks, and strategies to help push the game to its limits. It’s a community built on a foundation of camaraderie and mutual respect, where players can come together to celebrate their achievements and support one another in their quest for faster times.

As for my personal experience with speedrunning Super Mario 64, I must admit that I have not attempted it myself. While I have played the game and thoroughly enjoyed it, I have always been in awe of the skill and dedication required to achieve record-breaking times. It takes a level of commitment and patience that I simply do not possess. However, I have spent countless hours watching speedruns online, marveling at the incredible feats accomplished by these talented players.

The fastest speedrun in Super Mario 64 currently stands at 6 minutes and 27 seconds, achieved by the skilled speedrunner Kanno. This record-breaking time is a testament to the dedication, skill, and precision required to complete the game in such a short amount of time. Speedrunning Super Mario 64 is a challenging and rewarding endeavor that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in gaming. It’s a testament to the enduring popularity and timeless appeal of this classic Nintendo 64 title.