For this speed run, you must complete the game as fast as you can, using glitches as necessary. The backwards long jump allows you to pass the endless stairs without 70 stars. It was eventually posted on the GameFAQs board in March 2003, and it was found that the backwards long-jump also allowed you to pass through the 50-star door. In May 2004 Dom Dunc discovered using MIPS (the rabbit) it was also possible to get through the 30-star door. Since MIPS first appears at 15 stars, and "Board Bowser's Sub" is needed before you can face the second Bowser, it is possible to beat the game with a mere 16 stars. (And with tool-assistance, 0 stars.)
Timing follows SDA rules, and starts from when you first gain control of Mario and ends once Bowser's final star is reached. Some previously completed runs are listed here, along with star choices and times:
- Myles Bukrim, 17:31
- Marius Mollenhauer, 19:01
- Eddie Taylor, 19:47
- Ilari Pekkala, 20:56
- Myles Bukrim, 21:34
- Mark Korsak, 25:17
- Brad Cutler, 26:01