Uploaded February 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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"One Target" is a mode where you break the final target in the most optimized strategy. 10th targets are sourced from the tool assisted runs. One of the more interesting quirks of 1 Target is that the total high score can become worse if a new best route is found. Fortunately, since this was started around 2006, changes have typically worked in our favor to reduce the time. Back then, the original goal was to try and sub 40. Originally, my goal was to sub 31.50 and call it there. But I kept finding little optimizations. I didn't expect to hit sub 31.

For those familiar with this mode, you'll see many surprises. A lot of scores that were considered perfect or unbeatable were improved with a better understanding of the game, or just a new trick.

As the title states, this was played on keyboard. I have 5.95 Jigglypuff with controller, and got 0.87 Yoshi a long time ago, also with controller. I had to compromise a bit on the burner for Jigglypuff since it didn't have access to more than 8 directions. There are also a few other instances where controller is likely optimal, like any stage with a wavedash. For example, I'm fairly certain Mr. Game and Watch can get 0.21 with two perfect wavedashes backwards. Nobody has to do this, but I think it would be neat to see this tool assisted. Especially Samus. A zoomy would probably lower her record a bit.

That about does it. I worked on this for the last month here and there. I enjoyed it, but it's time to move onto my next secret project.