Released all the way back in 1996, Super Mario 64 was something of a boundary-breaking entry when it was launched, with its more open world concept and fully 3D visuals. It might look a little ugly today, but it's considered one of the best games on the Nintendo 64, perhaps even one of the best game of the 90s overall. As well as being a classic, it also enjoys a status as a top title to speedrun, with many players finding new tactics to break world records, and it looks as though a new one has been set.
In a video uploaded to YouTube yesterday, user Kanno managed to beat the final boss of Mario 64 in a head spinning 6:27, beating the previous world record by about two seconds. What's even more impressive is that they were able to achieve this without collecting a single star, something that many will know should be impossible to do. However, using a series of skips, the runner was able to bypass certain areas that require a star.
Incredible still, the timer begins as soon as the main menu is shown. This means that the first minute of the run consists of starting the game and waiting for the opening cut scene to end. This is also not the first time they've pulled off such a skillful feat. Back in December 2021, Kanno was able to defeat Mario 64 with one star in a time of just 7:07. According to the video's description, they are now aiming to run the game again with a view to completing it in 6:25. The only concern they have with this run is the Video On Demand, or VOD, pauses for a second partway through, so there's a chance the attempt may not be officially acknowledged.
Mario 64 is one of the most popular entries for speedrunners, partly because it's a beloved game that was something of an inspiration back in the 90s era of video game development. It could also be because there are a number of categories in which the game can be run, such as collecting all 120 stars the fastest, to simply getting to, and completing, the final Bowser fight with as few stars as possible, as in Kanno's case.
It's hard to say when, or if, this new record will be beaten, but no doubt there will be many who will keep trying. There's also Mario 64 blindfolded speedruns as well, which adds another dicey layer to the already challenging run. In any case, there will always be a community who will be dedicated to smashing records in this classic title.
Super Mario 64 was released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64.