Speedrunning Tips: Super Mario 64, Ocarina of Time, and Celeste

Speedrunning is a fascinating subculture within the gaming community that has captivated players and spectators alike. At its core, speedrunning involves completing a video game as quickly as possible, often using a variety of techniques and strategies to shave off precious seconds. I first stumbled upon speedrunning while watching a live stream of a charity event, where players showcased their skills in completing games at breakneck speeds.

The thrill of watching someone navigate through complex levels with precision and expertise was exhilarating, and I found myself drawn into this unique world. As I delved deeper into the realm of speedrunning, I discovered that it is not just about racing against the clock; it’s also about mastering the intricacies of each game. Speedrunners often spend countless hours practicing specific segments, learning the optimal routes, and discovering glitches that can be exploited to save time.

The community surrounding speedrunning is incredibly supportive, with forums, Discord servers, and social media groups dedicated to sharing tips, tricks, and strategies. This sense of camaraderie is one of the aspects that makes speedrunning so appealing to me. It’s not just about individual achievement; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what is possible in gaming.

Key Takeaways

• Speedrunning is the practice of completing a video game as quickly as possible, often using glitches and advanced techniques.
• Super Mario 64 speedrunning tips include mastering movement techniques like long jumps and wall kicks, as well as optimizing route choices.
• Ocarina of Time speedrunning tips involve precise execution of glitches like the “wrong warp” and “reverse bottle adventure” to save time.
• Celeste speedrunning tips focus on mastering advanced movement techniques like wave dashes and hyper dashes, as well as optimizing level routes.
• General speedrunning techniques include mastering precise inputs, optimizing movement, and learning to exploit game mechanics for time-saving advantages.

Super Mario 64 Speedrunning Tips

Super Mario 64 is often regarded as one of the quintessential games for speedrunning, and for good reason. The game’s open-world design allows for a variety of routes and strategies, making it a playground for speedrunners. One of the first tips I learned when diving into Super Mario 64 speedrunning is the importance of mastering the movement mechanics.

Techniques such as long jumps, wall kicks, and backflips can significantly enhance my speed and efficiency when traversing levels. Practicing these movements until they become second nature is crucial for achieving competitive times. Another key aspect of speedrunning Super Mario 64 is understanding the various stars and their locations.

I found that familiarizing myself with the most efficient routes to collect stars can save a considerable amount of time. For instance, in the first level, Bob-omb Battlefield, I learned that it’s often faster to skip certain stars altogether in favor of others that are easier to obtain. Additionally, utilizing glitches like the “BLJ” (Backwards Long Jump) can allow me to bypass certain obstacles and reach areas more quickly.

The thrill of executing these techniques flawlessly during a run is unmatched, and it’s a testament to the dedication required to excel in this game.

Ocarina of Time Speedrunning Tips

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is another classic title that has garnered a dedicated speedrunning community. One of the first things I realized when attempting to speedrun this game is the significance of routing. Unlike Super Mario 64, Ocarina of Time has a more linear progression, which means that planning my route carefully is essential for minimizing time loss.

I spent hours studying various speedrun routes and watching experienced runners to understand the most efficient ways to navigate through dungeons and complete objectives. In addition to routing, mastering specific glitches is vital for achieving fast times in Ocarina of Time. Techniques such as “Wrong Warp” allow me to skip entire sections of the game by manipulating the game’s memory.

Learning how to execute these glitches consistently took time and practice, but the payoff was worth it. I also discovered that optimizing my combat strategies against bosses could save valuable seconds during my runs. By understanding enemy patterns and utilizing effective weapon combinations, I was able to defeat foes more quickly and maintain momentum throughout my playthrough.

Celeste Speedrunning Tips

Celeste is a platformer that has gained immense popularity in the speedrunning community due to its tight controls and challenging levels. When I first approached speedrunning Celeste, I quickly realized that mastering movement mechanics was paramount. Techniques like dashes, wall jumps, and climbing are essential for navigating the game’s intricate levels efficiently.

I dedicated time to practicing each level individually, focusing on perfecting my execution to minimize mistakes.

One of the most rewarding aspects of speedrunning Celeste is the ability to utilize advanced movement techniques such as “wave dashing” and “hyper dashing.” These techniques allow me to maintain momentum and traverse levels at incredible speeds. I found that watching top runners perform these techniques inspired me to push my own limits.

Additionally, understanding the layout of each level and identifying potential shortcuts can significantly impact my overall time. The sense of accomplishment I feel when successfully completing a challenging level in record time is truly exhilarating.

General Speedrunning Techniques

As I continued my journey into speedrunning, I began to recognize several general techniques that apply across various games. One fundamental aspect is the importance of practice and repetition. The more I play a game with the intent of speedrunning it, the more familiar I become with its mechanics, level layouts, and potential pitfalls.

This familiarity allows me to make split-second decisions during runs, ultimately leading to better performance. Another technique that has proven invaluable is the use of splits during runs. By breaking down my playthrough into segments or “splits,” I can track my progress and identify areas where I need improvement.

This method not only helps me stay focused but also provides motivation as I see my times improve over time. Additionally, recording my runs allows me to review my performance critically, pinpointing mistakes or inefficiencies that I can work on in future attempts.

Advanced Speedrunning Strategies

Once I had grasped the basics of speedrunning, I became eager to explore advanced strategies that could elevate my gameplay further. One such strategy involves utilizing “soft locks” or “hard locks” in certain games to manipulate game mechanics in my favor. These techniques often require precise timing and execution but can lead to significant time savings if done correctly.

Another advanced strategy I discovered is the concept of “route optimization.” This involves analyzing different paths through a game to determine which route yields the fastest completion time. By studying other runners’ routes and experimenting with my own, I was able to develop a unique approach that suited my playstyle while still being competitive. The thrill of discovering new strategies and refining my approach keeps me engaged in the speedrunning community.

Overcoming Challenges in Speedrunning

Despite the excitement that comes with speedrunning, it’s not without its challenges. One significant hurdle I faced was dealing with frustration during practice sessions or runs where things didn’t go as planned. It’s easy to become disheartened when a mistake leads to a slower time or when I struggle to execute a particular technique consistently.

However, I learned that perseverance is key in overcoming these challenges. I also found that seeking support from the speedrunning community can be incredibly helpful during tough times. Engaging with fellow runners through forums or social media allowed me to share my experiences and gain insights from others who have faced similar struggles.

Their encouragement and advice often provided me with fresh perspectives on how to tackle difficult sections or improve my overall performance.

Conclusion and Resources for Speedrunning

In conclusion, speedrunning has become an integral part of my gaming experience, offering both challenges and rewards that keep me engaged and motivated. From mastering movement mechanics in iconic titles like Super Mario 64 and Ocarina of Time to exploring advanced strategies in games like Celeste, each step along this journey has been filled with learning opportunities and personal growth. For those interested in diving into speedrunning themselves, there are numerous resources available online.

Websites like Speedrun.com provide leaderboards, guides, and community forums where aspiring runners can connect with others who share their passion. Additionally, platforms like Twitch offer live streams where I can watch experienced runners showcase their skills while providing commentary on their techniques. Ultimately, speedrunning is not just about completing games quickly; it’s about pushing boundaries, fostering community connections, and enjoying the thrill of competition.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, there’s always something new to learn in this ever-evolving world of gaming.

If you’re looking to improve your speedrunning skills in specific games, you may want to check out this article on