So after finally solving the Secret Hint last week, I figured it was time to use that to post a new WR, which can be seen here at just over 4m10s. Some quick thoughts:
Improvement is definitely possible - my "sum of best" is now 4m02s but I think getting a 4m08-09 isn't that far off; I just need to push and hope what little RNG there is to align in my favour. Basically, on the final key not getting the block-clearing shot shield-guy-blocked and catching the cycle of the last snake at the right time is what will make or break a run.
I'm a bit disappointed - at least for now - that figuring this out doesn't *seem* to have too much of an impact on the route. Basically, we can burn thru some coin blocks on the last key (see below) and cut a pickup or two here or there, but otherwise the route doesn't really change. Also, it means the cannon-blocking "ghost dance" that was previously done there due to a lack of coins is no longer necessary, which I think is kind of a shame, because I was quite happy when I came up with that technique.
Maybe there's hope that some more rerouting can be done, but I'm not seeing anything at this point. Going to keep it in mind going forward, but really the current route seems fairly direct and we're essentially not detouring much at this point to get the requisite coins.
Part of me wanted to get at least a 4m09s before posting but I've got a bit on the go in the next while and wanted to post something. I'll likely keep at it when I'm able and then post if/when it happens - that is assuming some troublesome Squirrel doesn't beat me to it.
Either way, I'm happy to have the riddle solved and to get to revisit this passion project again after being inactive on it for so long - we'll see what the future holds!
