A speedrunner’s quest to (re)build the perfect N64 controller | The Vergecast

()

Speedrunning

Speedrunning is a hobby where gamers try to beat games as quickly as possible, often using glitches and shortcuts.
Some speedrunners can even do it blindfolded.
The Nintendo 64 (N64) is a popular console for speedrunning, but the controllers are wearing out and becoming increasingly difficult to find.
Speedrunners are resorting to buying used controllers on eBay or building their own joystick parts.

Beck Abney is a legendary Mario Kart 64 speedrunner known for his shortcut runs and holds the world record for the fastest shortcut run on Choco Mountain.
He aims to become the shortcut champion and is currently ranked third in non-shortcut driving.
In 2019, Beck faced controller issues due to joystick failures and parts shortages.
He struggled to adapt to new controllers after getting used to playing with a half-broken one.
Beck identified the worn-down plastic bowl inside the controller as the problem and tried swapping parts to recreate the feel of his old controller.
Despite his efforts, including 3D printing custom parts, he couldn't perfectly replicate the old controller and lost his competitive edge.
Beck is committed to finding a solution and is currently working on shortcut records on individual courses.
He admits that without his stream and viewers, he probably wouldn't play the game as much due to the controller frustrations.
Beck is currently practicing a difficult shortcut in Yoshi Valley, which involves precise button presses and movements.
Despite the challenges, Beck remains determined to rebuild the perfect controller and continues to experiment with new parts and combinations.