What do they mean by "tricks/strats/splits?"
8 years ago
Michigan, USA

In a description, speedrunners often uses the word tricks/strats/splits. But what do they mean? I want to get the grasp of what they are talking about because their are many different definitions of those words. The question may sound stupid, but I just want to get my answers. Thanks.

Victoria, Australia
stoot
He/Him, They/Them
8 years ago

Tricks are generally manoeuvres in a game which wouldn't be used by a person who plays it casually, used to save time. Sometimes they can be glitches, sometimes they're just as simple as a clever jump that can save time.

Strats are strategies used to save time. Usually, when people talk about them, they're talking about sets of strats. Some strats are used to get WR, but when you're just starting out or at a marathon, you might use safe strats (which could be easier/less likely to crash the game, but will be slower than other strats).

Splits are timed using a program such as LiveSplit, Llanfair, etc. They're individual sections of the game that are timed using those programs, which show how far in front or behind they are when compared to their PB or the WR. Some people don't use any splits and just use a timer. I'd recommend downloading one of those programs and seeing how it works.

For tricks and strats, every person you ask will probably give a different answer. Ultimately, if you watch enough speedrunning streams, you'll become familiar with the lingo.

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