Super Mario 64 Speedrunning Phenom: Cole's Unmatched Mastery

Jan 10, 2025 at 7:08 PM

In a world where speedrunning has gained significant traction, one name stands out among the rest: Cole "GreenSuigi." This young gamer has achieved feats that many thought were impossible. While most players take around 12 hours to complete Super Mario 64, Cole can finish it multiple times in the same timeframe, often without collecting a single star. His recent record-breaking performance has sparked discussions about his place in gaming history, with some comparing him to Michael Jordan of video games. Cole's unique approach and exceptional skills have not only set new benchmarks but also redefined what is possible in the world of speedrunning.

Cole's journey into the realm of speedrunning began when he was introduced to Super Mario 64 at a young age. Initially playing on a Nintendo DSi, he eventually discovered the original N64 version and fell in love with its intricate mechanics. The game's revolutionary design, developed by Shigeru Miyamoto, allowed for intuitive movement and control, which captivated Cole from the start. By the time he turned 15, Cole had already completed the game over 100 times, laying the foundation for his future achievements.

The concept of speedrunning revolves around completing a game as quickly as possible, often using glitches and optimized routes. For Cole, this meant mastering every aspect of Super Mario 64, including its infamous "backwards long jump" trick. This technique, which allows Mario to bypass certain obstacles, is notoriously difficult to execute but essential for setting records. Cole's ability to perform these complex maneuvers flawlessly sets him apart from other speedrunners. In late 2024, he broke an elusive record in the 70-star category, finishing the game in just 46 minutes and 26 seconds. This achievement solidified his status as one of the most skilled gamers in the community.

Beyond his technical prowess, Cole's mental fortitude plays a crucial role in his success. Speedrunning can be incredibly stressful, especially in shorter categories where even the slightest mistake can cost precious seconds. Cole has honed his focus and calm under pressure through years of practice. He spends hours each day perfecting specific parts of the game, ensuring that he can consistently deliver top-tier performances. Despite his accomplishments, Cole remains humble and acknowledges the contributions of other notable speedrunners like Weegee and Cheese. He believes that while he may be the best player at the moment, crowning a single "best speedrunner" is subjective and doesn't reflect the diversity within the community.

Looking ahead, Cole plans to take a more relaxed approach to speedrunning. After nearly burning out from the intense competition, he aims to enjoy the process without the added pressure of maintaining his records. Although he has no immediate plans for formal education, Cole envisions a future where he can balance his passion for gaming with a stable career. Regardless of what lies ahead, Cole's impact on the speedrunning community will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. His dedication and innovation have not only broken records but also inspired a new generation of gamers to push the boundaries of what is possible.