Intro: A little while after the video and emulator cut were bumped to 1:20, I questioned why the emulator cut was increased. Now, I'm gonna explain why I think of this.
Emulator Cutoff: The emulator cutoff should've stayed at 1:15 for two reasons. 1st: Emulators are there for people who want to learn the game and start speed-running or for people who run the game but don't want to or can't afford to get a console and capture card. So bumping up the emulator cutoff will only stop people from showing people that they are capable of getting times 1:19:59 - 1:15:00 with proof of video. 2nd: Dolphin is the only allowed emulator, because its loads are even with a Gamecube console, while PCSX2, a PS2 emulator, has loads either on par or faster than xbox, depending on the computer, and will be rejected for illegitimate loads.
Video Cutoff: Personally, the video cutoff is fine at 1:20 because it stops people from sending runs that are incredibly good for a first run or a significant improvement over a previous personal best. Still it could be raised to something like 1:30 - 1:35 because 1:20 is still a good time for a first run.
That's all my thoughts on the rule change.
Emulator is an illegitimate form of gameplay, and a 1:15 is too desirable of a time to be the cutoff time for it. 1:20 gives the player plenty of time to obtain a console and does not need to be changed. If anything, it needs to be pushed even higher. Anyone submitting a 1:20 on their first run without video proof still looks suspicious, but not nearly as suspicious as a 1:15.
If you've been playing the game for more than 6 months, you should have a console by now if you plan on playing competitively.
The 100 Under 1 challenge was a success! Thanks to all the runners who achieved sub hour in Battle for Bikini Bottom.
Watch the original announcement here:
We reached 102 under 1, amounting to $2,400 for combatting childhood cancer.