Tool-Assisted Speedrun (TAS)
Frame-perfect play
Speedruns created using emulator tools like frame advance and save states, demonstrating theoretical perfect play impossible for humans but entertaining and educational to watch.
Overview
Tool-Assisted Speedruns (TAS) are speedruns created using emulator features like frame advance, save states, and input recording. While not humanly possible, TAS demonstrates theoretical perfect play, often reveals new strategies, and provides entertainment through superhuman precision.
Fast Facts
- Tools: Frame advance, save states, rerecording
- Platform: Emulators (BizHawk, FCEUX, etc.)
- Goal: Theoretical perfection
- Entertainment: Often more impressive than RTA
- Research: Discovers new techniques
TAS vs RTA
| TAS | RTA (Real-Time Attack) |
|---|---|
| Frame-perfect inputs | Human execution |
| Emulator required | Can use original hardware |
| Rerecording allowed | Single attempt |
| Theoretical limit | Practical limit |
Tools Used
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Frame advance | Step through frame by frame |
| Save states | Save and reload instantly |
| Input recording | Record and edit inputs |
| RAM watch | Monitor game state |
| Lua scripting | Automate analysis |
TAS Categories
| Category | Approach |
|---|---|
| Any% | Fastest completion |
| 100% | Full completion |
| Playaround | Entertainment focus |
| Arbitrary Code Execution | Exploit demonstration |
Educational Value
TAS teaches:
| Insight | Application |
|---|---|
| Frame data | Exact timing windows |
| Mechanics | How systems work |
| Optimisation | Theoretical limits |
| Glitches | Unintended behaviour |
Famous TAS Projects
Notable TAS achievements:
- Super Mario Bros. optimisation
- Pokemon ACE demonstrations
- “Impossible” trick compilations
- Playaround entertainment runs
TASVideos
The primary TAS community hub:
| Feature | Content |
|---|---|
| Archive | Verified TAS movies |
| Forums | Discussion and collaboration |
| Standards | Quality requirements |
| Tools | Emulator development |
Legacy
TAS pushed understanding of game mechanics beyond what human play could reveal. Techniques discovered in TAS often become humanly viable strategies, and TAS entertainment has millions of viewers.