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Researchers Proceed with Publishing Nature Report Following Trump’s Administration Obstruction

# The National Nature Assessment: An Essential Report on Nature’s Role in Climate and Society

## Introduction

The inaugural **National Nature Assessment (NNA)** was intended to furnish the public with vital knowledge regarding nature’s impact on climate change and its effects on human existence. Nevertheless, the ambitious initiative encountered an unexpected halt during the Trump administration, stirring apprehensions about the direction of environmental research and policy in the United States.

In spite of this interruption, researchers and environmental proponents persist in their dedication to finalizing and publishing the report, underscoring its significance in influencing national policies and enhancing public comprehension of nature’s function in society.

## The Purpose of the National Nature Assessment

Launched under the Biden administration in 2022, the NNA aimed to fill voids in the country’s comprehension of environmental shifts. The report sought to:

– Assess the impacts of **nature decline on climate change** and human well-being.
– Offer a **thorough national perspective** on environmental transformations.
– Aid the creation of **nature-based solutions** to confront climate issues.
– Investigate the **economic ramifications** of environmental decline.

The report was anticipated to be a **collaborative initiative**, involving public input and expert assessments to ensure its conclusions were relevant and practicable.

## The Cancellation of the Report

The decision by the Trump administration to cancel the NNA continues to be contentious. While an official rationale was not provided, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly indicated that Trump sought to “unleash America’s energy potential” while conserving natural resources.

However, some specialists contend that the report’s emphasis on **environmental justice and equity** may have influenced its cancellation. Christopher Schell, a primary author of the chapter “Nature and Equity in the US,” suggested that the integration of **social and environmental justice topics** made the project a target for the administration.

## The Broader Impact of Trump’s Environmental Policies

The termination of the NNA is indicative of a more extensive trend of environmental rollbacks during Trump’s presidency. An analysis by Harvard’s **Environmental and Energy Law Program** shows that Trump’s executive actions have:

– **Abolished environmental justice initiatives**, diminishing protections for at-risk communities.
– **Limited access to climate data**, complicating the ability of researchers and policymakers to tackle environmental issues.
– **Contradicted former environmental policies**, such as advocating for species protection in some instances while accelerating fossil fuel exploitation in others.

During Trump’s first term, **20% of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) website became inaccessible**, and the use of the phrase **”climate change”** in governmental documents decreased by more than a third. These actions have heightened worries regarding transparency and the long-lasting effects of restricting public access to environmental data.

## The Future of the National Nature Assessment

Despite its cancellation, researchers engaged in the NNA remain resolute in their aim to complete and disseminate the report. They assert that the insights are too crucial to forfeit, especially considering the comprehensive public involvement in shaping the report’s focus.

Phil Levin, the former director of the NNA, highlighted the report’s importance, stating:

> “Nature supports our economy, our health and well-being, national security, and safety from fire and floods. The loss of the National Nature Assessment means that we’re losing important information that we need to ensure that nature and people thrive.”

Even in the absence of government backing, the report’s findings could still shape **public dialogue, policy development, and environmental advocacy efforts**.

## Conclusion

The National Nature Assessment embodies a vital endeavor to grasp and tackle the **interrelated challenges of climate change, nature degradation, and human welfare**. Although its cancellation under the Trump administration raises alarms about the future of environmental research, the dedication of scientists and advocates assures that its insights will not be overlooked.

As the discourse surrounding environmental policy progresses, the NNA serves as a poignant reminder of the **necessity of science-based decision-making** in cultivating a sustainable future for everyone.

Why *Dragonsweeper* Is My Top Game of 2025 (Up to This Point)

# **Dragonsweeper: An Ingenious RPG Spin on Minesweeper**

For many years, *Minesweeper* has been a cornerstone of casual gaming, testing players with its blend of logic, deduction, and a touch of luck. Throughout the years, numerous adaptations have sought to expand on the beloved formula, introducing new mechanics, board designs, and even extra dimensions. Yet, few have succeeded in achieving the ideal equilibrium between simplicity and creativity. Enter *Dragonsweeper*, a free browser-based game created by indie developer Daniel Benmergui, which fuses *Minesweeper*’s fundamental mechanics with RPG features to deliver a captivating and rewarding adventure.

## **A Novel Approach to a Time-Honored Concept**

At its essence, *Dragonsweeper* preserves the core gameplay of *Minesweeper*: players uncover tiles on a grid, utilizing numerical hints to deduce the locations of hidden threats. However, rather than encountering mines, players face monsters of varying power levels. The numbers displayed on the board represent the **total power levels** of all nearby monsters, not the count of adjacent threats. This subtle but impactful alteration compels players to reassess their deduction strategies.

For instance, a tile showing “14” could indicate either two monsters with 7 power each or perhaps a variety of weaker foes like slimes and bats. This increased complexity transforms *Dragonsweeper* into an RPG-like puzzle experience rather than just a straightforward logic game.

## **Thoughtful Combat and Exploration**

In contrast to *Minesweeper*, where clicking a mine results in immediate failure, *Dragonsweeper* lets players confront the dangers they discover. The protagonist, Jorge, has a health bar that decreases when battling monsters but can be restored using potions or by leveling up with gold obtained from defeated foes. This sets up a risk-reward scenario: should you confront a known monster for resources, or sacrifice some health to reveal more of the board and gather essential intel?

One key strategy in the game emphasizes that Jorge’s health serves as an “exploration budget.” Instead of shunning danger completely, players must at times embrace calculated risks, trading health to expose more of the board and gain strategic insight. This change in thinking can be tough for seasoned *Minesweeper* players, but it ultimately enriches the experience, making *Dragonsweeper* more engaging and tactical.

## **Gaining Wisdom from Defeat**

Much like other exceptional puzzle games, *Dragonsweeper* motivates players to glean insights from their failures. The game’s “Monsternomicon” provides enigmatic hints about enemy actions, but true expertise is attained by recognizing patterns and refining tactics through repeated attempts. Even when a playthrough concludes unsuccessfully, players can examine the fully uncovered board to identify their mistakes and enhance their strategy for the next go.

Certain monsters exhibit unique behaviors that only become clear after several encounters, introducing an element of discovery to every session. This makes *Dragonsweeper* feel like a game that values persistence and thorough observation, rather than depending exclusively on chance.

## **Unlimited Replay Value**

Once players master the art of defeating the titular dragon, *Dragonsweeper* presents additional challenges to maintain their interest. The game’s scoring system encourages players to clear the entire board, necessitating careful resource management and tactical foresight. A recent update has also brought in an in-game timer, enabling speedrunning challenges reminiscent of elite *Minesweeper* contests.

With its brief play sessions, captivating mechanics, and the ideal combination of logic and luck, *Dragonsweeper* stands out as an excellent “coffee break” game. It’s simple to get into yet challenging to perfect, making it an ideal diversion for puzzle enthusiasts and RPG aficionados alike.

## **Conclusion**

*Dragonsweeper* adeptly reimagines *Minesweeper* by incorporating RPG elements without complicating the core gameplay. Its fusion of deduction, risk management, and tactical combat crafts a uniquely captivating experience that draws players back for “one more attempt.” Whether you’re a devoted *Minesweeper* enthusiast or searching for an innovative puzzle challenge, *Dragonsweeper* is definitely worth your time.

You can enjoy *Dragonsweeper* for free on

Tesla Performs Testing of Autonomous “Cybercab” in Texas

# Texas Embraces Tesla’s Cybercab: A New Chapter for Autonomous Vehicles

## Introduction

Texas is poised to emerge as a significant testing hub for autonomous vehicles, as Tesla gears up to introduce its driverless “Cybercab” service in Austin. In contrast to California, which has enforced rigorous regulations on self-driving technology, Texas provides a more lenient atmosphere for companies aiming to implement autonomous vehicles (AVs) on public thoroughfares. This article examines the ramifications of Tesla’s decision, the regulatory framework in Texas, and the wider effects of autonomous vehicle technology.

## Texas vs. California: A Story of Divergent Regulatory Strategies

Tesla, similar to numerous other AV firms, initially focused its testing efforts in California. However, the Golden State has enacted strict regulations, such as mandatory tracking of test miles and instances requiring human intervention. These rules have created a difficult landscape for companies intent on quickly expanding their AV operations.

Conversely, Texas has adopted a more relaxed stance. The state revised its transportation code in 2017, allowing autonomous vehicles to function without necessitating local government authorization. This regulatory leniency has made Texas a desirable location for AV experimentation and launch.

## The Growth of Autonomous Vehicles in Texas

Texas has already witnessed considerable AV activity. Autonomous semi-trucks have been traversing Texan highways since 2021, and firms like Waymo and Volkswagen have been piloting self-driving ride-hailing services in Austin. Waymo has been providing autonomous rides in the city since late 2023, while Volkswagen has been testing driverless electric vans in partnership with Mobileye.

Tesla’s entrance into the Texas AV sector signifies a major milestone, as the company plans to implement its Cybercab service in Austin. However, Tesla’s method of approach toward autonomous driving has sparked controversy, particularly with its heavy reliance on vision-based systems instead of lidar and radar, which are frequently utilized by other AV firms.

## Safety Issues and Regulatory Hurdles

Tesla’s track record with partially automated driving systems has raised alarms regarding the safety of its Cybercab service. Both Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) have faced numerous federal safety probes, and tests indicate that Tesla’s FSD system necessitates human involvement approximately every 13 miles.

Moreover, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that Texas has experienced a notable number of accidents involving Tesla’s driver assistance technologies. Since 2021, over 10% of all documented Tesla accidents involving advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have occurred in Texas.

A primary challenge Tesla may confront in Texas is the issue of liability in the case of an accident. Texas law holds that the owner of an AV must ensure adherence to traffic regulations. Nevertheless, Tesla has historically denied liability for incidents involving its Autopilot and FSD systems, which could lead to legal difficulties if Cybercabs are implicated in accidents.

## The Prospects for Autonomous Vehicles in Texas

Despite these challenges, Texas continues to be a leading site for AV advancement due to its supportive regulatory framework and driving-focused infrastructure. If Tesla successfully rolls out its Cybercab service, it could set the stage for wider adoption of autonomous ride-hailing services in the state.

However, the success of Tesla’s Cybercab will hinge on several variables, including regulatory examination, public acceptance, and the company’s capacity to tackle safety issues. As the AV sector keeps evolving, Texas may play a vital role as a testing site for the future of driverless transportation.

## Conclusion

Tesla’s choice to initiate its Cybercab service in Texas underscores the state’s increasing prominence as a center for autonomous vehicle innovation. While Texas presents a more accommodating regulatory environment than California, concerns over safety and liability still linger. As Tesla advances with its initiatives, the outcome of its Cybercab service could significantly influence the future of autonomous transportation across the U.S.

Certain users have reported that Nvidia GPUs are once more experiencing overheating issues and causing power cables to melt.

# **Nvidia RTX 5090 Power Connector Melting Concerns: A Recurring Issue?**

## **Overview**
Nvidia’s new flagship graphics card, the **GeForce RTX 5090**, has just launched, and initial users are already highlighting a troubling issue: **melting power connectors**. This situation mirrors previous problems with the **RTX 4090 power connectors**, which led to overheating, melting, and even fire risks. Reports from **YouTube** and **Reddit** indicate that the **12V-2×6 power connectors** utilized in the RTX 5090 might be encountering similar failures.

At this point, it remains uncertain whether these cases are **isolated events** or suggest a **larger systemic concern**. Let’s delve into the background of Nvidia’s power connector issues, the possible causes, and the implications for consumers.

—

## **Historical Context: The RTX 4090 Power Connector Problem**
Upon the release of the **RTX 4090**, users quickly noted that its **12VHPWR power connectors** were susceptible to **melting and igniting**. Following thorough testing, both Nvidia and independent analysts determined that the **primary factor** was improper cable connection. If the connector was not **securely seated** or was **angled excessively**, it could result in **overheating and malfunction**.

To mitigate these risks, the **PCI-SIG (Peripheral Component Interconnect Special Interest Group)** introduced an **updated standard** named **12V-2×6**, intended to enhance safety by ensuring power delivery only when the connector is **properly connected**. The **RTX 50-series**, including the RTX 5090, now features this **new connector**.

—

## **RTX 5090: A New GPU, A Recurring Concern?**
Even with the **12V-2×6 connector** designed to rectify past issues, reports of **melting power connectors** have emerged for the RTX 5090. To date, at least two incidents have been documented:

– **A YouTube user** posted a video displaying a **charred power connector** on their RTX 5090.
– **A Reddit user** shared photos of a **melted 12V-2×6 connector**, raising alarms about the new GPUs’ safety.

Both occurrences involved **third-party power cables** instead of the **official Nvidia adapter**. The cables in question were from:

1. **MODDIY** – A custom PC components manufacturer.
2. **FSP** – A prominent power supply producer.

This brings up the question: **Are third-party cables the culprit, or is there a more profound issue with the 12V-2×6 connector itself?**

—

## **Examining the 12V-2×6 Connector**
The **12V-2×6 power connector** was created to **efficiently deliver high power** while minimizing cable clutter within a PC case. Rather than relying on **multiple 8-pin connectors**, the **12V-2×6** allows GPUs to harness up to **600W of power** through a **single cable**.

However, Nvidia is currently the **only prominent GPU manufacturer** extensively employing this power connector. **AMD and Intel** have continued to utilize **traditional 8-pin connectors**, which have not faced widespread failures. Even some of Nvidia’s **own partners** have preferred **8-pin connectors** for lower-powered GPUs such as the **RTX 4060 and 4070 series**.

This raises issues regarding whether the **12V-2×6 standard** is genuinely **reliable** or if Nvidia is **stretching the boundaries** of power delivery at the expense of **safety and longevity**.

—

## **Possible Explanations for the Melting Problem**
While investigations continue, several potential reasons could account for the **RTX 5090 power connector failures**:

1. **User Error (Incorrect Cable Connection)**
– If the **12V-2×6 connector** is not **completely inserted**, it may generate **high resistance**, resulting in **overheating and melting**.
– This was the **main factor** behind the RTX 4090’s power connector failures.

2. **Quality of Third-Party Cables**
– The two reported RTX 5090 incidents involved **non-Nvidia cables**.
– Inferior materials or **incorrect pin configurations** may lead to **overheating**.

3. **Design Limitations of the 12V-2×6 Connector**
– Despite advancements over the **12VHPWR standard**, the **12V-2×6** could still possess **fundamental flaws**.
– If the connector is **overly sensitive to**

Owing to the unpredictable U.S. EV market, BMW boosts investment in internal combustion engines.

# BMW’s Strategic Approach to Electrification Amid Market Uncertainty

## Introduction

BMW has consistently led automotive innovation, managing its investments in electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid technologies, and traditional combustion engines. As the global auto industry encounters variable demand for EVs, BMW stays dedicated to a varied strategy, ensuring it can adjust to market fluctuations while keeping profitability intact.

## BMW’s EV and Hybrid Sales Performance

In 2024, BMW indicated that **17% of its overall vehicle sales were fully electric**, with an additional **7% from hybrid vehicles**, totaling **24%** for electrified vehicles. This represents a steady rise in the company’s EV uptake, even in the face of broader industry obstacles such as dwindling demand and regulatory uncertainties.

## A Balanced Investment Strategy

BMW’s leadership, including board member **Jochen Goller**, has highlighted the significance of maintaining a **multi-energy strategy**. While certain automakers have aggressively chased an exclusively electric future, BMW persists in investing in **combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric options**. This strategy grants the firm adaptability in response to evolving consumer preferences and regulatory dynamics.

Goller has remarked that the move towards EVs is not a **”one-way road”** but a **”rollercoaster ride,”** particularly in regions such as the United States, where political shifts—like the potential return of Donald Trump to the presidency—might influence EV policies and incentives.

## BMW’s Competitive Edge

In contrast to some rivals that have faced difficulties due to the slowdown in EV demand, BMW’s **extensive product range** has uniquely positioned it in the market. The company has been prudent about not overcommitting to EVs prematurely, ensuring its range includes **petrol, hybrid, and electric models** that reflect consistent designs and features.

This tactic has enabled BMW to avoid the significant discounts that many automakers have had to offer to stimulate EV sales. Analysts contend that BMW is better equipped to comply with **stricter EU emissions regulations** without compromising on profitability.

## The Neue Klasse EV Platform

Looking forward, BMW is poised to unveil its **Neue Klasse platform**, which will present a new generation of EVs featuring:

– **Extended driving ranges**
– **Accelerated charging capabilities**
– **Enhanced software integration**

This platform is anticipated to reinforce BMW’s leadership in **software-defined vehicles and battery technologies**, ensuring its EV offerings remain competitive in a shifting market.

## Challenges in the Chinese Market

Despite its international achievements, BMW has encountered obstacles in **China**, the largest automotive market globally. In 2024, BMW and Mini sales in China fell by **13%**, a more significant drop than that of competitors like **Mercedes-Benz and Audi**.

Analysts attribute this to **growing price competition** and the emergence of **domestic Chinese brands** as critical contributors to BMW’s challenges in the area. Nevertheless, BMW remains hopeful, with Goller stating that while China’s economic growth may not rebound to prior rates, the market continues to expand, and BMW intends to **sustain its presence and competitiveness**.

## Conclusion

BMW’s **multi-energy strategy** has enabled it to maneuver through the uncertainties of the global automotive landscape efficiently. By consistently investing in **combustion engines, hybrids, and EVs**, the company guarantees that it can satisfy consumer demand across various regions.

With the impending **Neue Klasse EV platform**, BMW is strategically positioned to fortify its presence in the electric vehicle market while retaining flexibility in an unpredictable environment. As the industry advances, BMW’s balanced approach could serve as an exemplar for other automakers aiming to manage the transition to electrification effectively.

CenturyLink Users Experience Extended Outages, Request Help from Ars Technica

# **CenturyLink’s Ongoing Service Issues: Customers Stranded for Months**

CenturyLink, now known as Lumen, has garnered a concerning reputation for leaving customers without service for prolonged durations. In spite of numerous complaints and arranged repair visits, numerous customers have reported being without phone or internet connectivity for weeks or even months. In various instances, CenturyLink reacted only after media involvement, shedding light on a deeper problem with customer support and infrastructure upkeep.

## **A Consistent Pattern of Inattention**

CenturyLink’s failure to remedy service interruptions has been extensively recorded over the last year. Countless customers have shared experiences of extended outages, with the company neglecting to attend scheduled repair sessions or even acknowledge service issues.

For instance, in Boulder, Colorado, a customer named John and his spouse found themselves without phone and DSL internet service for more than three weeks. Lacking cell service in their vicinity, they had no choice but to drive to locate a signal. Although they scheduled several repair appointments, no technician showed up, leaving them to continue paying their $113 monthly bill for nonexistent service.

John’s elderly neighbors were also affected by the outage, prompting him to contact Ars Technica after he came across similar reports. Following Ars’s outreach to CenturyLink, a technician was sent who replaced a defective modem and phone card, restoring service within hours. This swift resolution prompts the question: why did it take media pressure for the company to respond?

## **Chronic Failures Nationwide**

John’s experience is far from unique. In Sheridan, Oregon, Karen Kurt and her neighbor suffered an outage that lasted nearly three months. Despite creating multiple repair tickets and waiting at home for scheduled appointments, no technician ever appeared. Their CenturyLink phone and internet service charged them $172.04 monthly, yet they were left without crucial communication services.

In a similar vein, in Bellevue, Washington, David Stromberg endured a phone service disruption for over four months. Like many others, he arranged repair appointments, only to experience no-shows from CenturyLink technicians.

In both instances, once Ars Technica reached out to CenturyLink, service was reestablished within hours or days. The company issued vague apologies and promised to look into the delays, yet did not offer any tangible solutions to avoid future incidents.

## **Limited Accountability**

When questioned about the reasons for these prolonged outages, CenturyLink offered scant clarification. A spokesperson for the company said, “Restoring customer service is a priority, and we apologize for the delay. We’re investigating the cause of the repair delay.” However, this statement provides little comfort to customers who have repeatedly faced service failures.

Even after service was restored, some customers encountered further challenges. Stromberg had to make numerous calls to receive a billing credit for the months he lacked service. Kurt reported having to contact CenturyLink each month to request a credit, noting that her internet service remained erratic, often taking an excessive time to load web pages.

## **Aging Infrastructure and Technician Shortages**

One significant factor behind CenturyLink’s service shortcomings is its dependence on outdated copper infrastructure. Although the company has invested in fiber networks in certain regions, many customers are still stuck with slow and unreliable DSL connections.

Kurt, for instance, is limited to a 1.5Mbps DSL connection, which struggles to accommodate even basic web activities. She likened her internet experience to “a glass of water” overcrowded with too many users, leading to congestion and sluggish speeds.

John, the Boulder inhabitant, shared insights from a CenturyLink technician who revealed that only five technicians in western Boulder County are trained to work with copper lines. The majority of CenturyLink’s workforce is now focused on fiber installations, leaving those dependent on copper with insufficient support.

## **Few Options for Customers**

For many impacted customers, changing service providers is not feasible. Kurt and her husband, for example, reside in a location devoid of reliable cell service and no other broadband options. They are on a waiting list for Starlink satellite internet, but the timeframe for availability remains uncertain.

CenturyLink’s disregard for its copper network has relegated customers in rural and underserved regions to a limited selection. While the company professes to advocate for broadband expansion, it has actively lobbied against municipal broadband initiatives that could enhance services for these communities.

## **The Call for Reform**

CenturyLink’s recurring failures underscore a broader dilemma within the telecommunications sector: a lack of accountability and competition. Customers in rural locales frequently have no alternatives, compelling them to tolerate subpar service and prolonged outages.

Regulatory action may be required to ensure that companies like CenturyLink meet their customer obligations. Strengthened consumer protection regulations, increased oversight, and support for municipal broadband projects could help avert similar scenarios in the future.

Until then, customers may continue to endure extended outages and frustrating encounters with a company that only appears to respond under public pressure.

Mike Tyson Vanquished in Less than Two Minutes for the Initial Time in *Punch-Out!!*

# **Summoning Salt Makes History with Landmark Speedrun in *Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out* and Bids Farewell to the Challenge**

For more than 35 years, *Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out* has been a quintessential and demanding title in the realm of video games. The ultimate adversary, Mike Tyson (or his later skin, Mr. Dream), has mystified and brought down numerous players with his rapid-fire uppercuts and relentless knockdowns. Only the most adept players have succeeded in conquering him, and even fewer have done so at record-setting speeds.

Now, after almost five years and a staggering 75,000 tries, acclaimed speedrunner and gaming historian **Summoning Salt** has accomplished a milestone once deemed impossible—defeating Tyson in less than two minutes on the game clock. With a time of **1:59.97** officially recorded, Summoning Salt has established a new world record and declared his retirement from this challenge.

—

## **The Path to an Unforgettable Knockout**

Summoning Salt’s journey toward this record has been nothing less than extraordinary. From the release of *Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out* on the NES in 1987, speedrunners have sought to beat Tyson in the quickest time possible. However, no one had successfully secured a TKO in under two minutes—until today.

The in-game timer in *Punch-Out* operates at approximately **three times the speed of a standard clock**, rendering every second in the game highly significant. Summoning Salt’s record-breaking performance, achieved live on Twitch, was the result of years of practice, near-flawless execution, and an incredible amount of fortune.

—

## **The Talents and Fortune Behind the Record**

Breaking through the two-minute frontier necessitated **a combination of astounding skill and extraordinary luck**. As Summoning Salt has illustrated in his speedrunning videos, attaining the fastest conceivable Tyson TKO mandates:

– **21 “frame-perfect” punches**—each delivered within a **1/60th of a second precision**. Missing any of these by the slightest amount can prolong the fight.
– **Exact dodging and counter-punching**—Little Mac must quickly recover from Tyson’s strikes to optimize damage inflicted.
– **Minimal hesitation from Tyson**—The AI in the game randomly dictates how long Tyson pauses between his attacks. These pauses can vary from mere fractions of a second to **eight full seconds**, which can significantly influence a speedrun’s success.

Summoning Salt’s record-setting battle was **only seven frames shy of perfection**, costing him approximately **0.35 in-game seconds**. Nevertheless, his fortune with Tyson’s attack sequences was nearly impeccable. According to fellow speedrunner **Bismuth**, the likelihood of Tyson presenting such an optimal sequence in the initial phase is **1 in 1,600**. Moreover, the game’s random-number generator (RNG) worked in his favor during subsequent phases, making this run a **1 in 7,000 to 10,000** occurrence.

—

## **A Moment of Surprise and Victory**

When Summoning Salt executed the knockout punch and noticed the game clock display **1:59**, his response was unexpectedly muted.

*”It’s over,”* he remarked during his Twitch stream, a bit dazed. *”I thought I’d feel way more excited about this. Holy shit, dude! It’s f***ing over… Dude, am I dreaming right now? … I’m sorry for being so quiet. I’m sort of in shock that just happened.”*

For a speedrunner who has dedicated years to maximizing *Punch-Out*, this moment felt both surreal and profoundly fulfilling.

—

## **The Legacy of Summoning Salt’s Speedrun**

Summoning Salt’s fresh record eclipses his own earlier world record of **2:00.00**, set merely eight months prior. That run almost reached the 1:59 mark, falling just **three frames short**, making this latest triumph even more impressive.

His journey has been dotted with notable achievements:
– In **2020**, he became the **first player to surpass the 2:01 threshold**.
– Throughout the years, he has managed to replicate sub-2:01 times only **15 times** amid tens of thousands of trials.
– His most recent run is just **1.36 seconds behind the tool-assisted speedrun (TAS) record** of **1:58.61**, a mark viewed as the theoretical peak of human performance.

Even with such proximity to perfection, Summoning Salt has chosen to step down from the challenge.

*”I have no plans to ever better this time,”* he stated. *”Someone will eventually surpass it, likely by replicating this fight and then enjoying better luck in phase 3. I’m not keen on competing for that, but I am immensely proud to have achieved the first.”*