New World Record Set in One of Gaming’s Hardest Co-Op Challenges: Battletoads (2-Player, 100%)
Few retro games carry the reputation that Battletoads does—especially in 2-player mode, where the difficulty skyrockets from “brutal” to “borderline impossible.” Recently, two dedicated players, David (Player 1, Rash) and his partner (Player 2, Zitz), have pushed the limits of what’s possible in this notoriously unforgiving co-op experience. The duo has officially set a new World Record in the Battletoads 100% Co-Op category, verified by Speedrun.com, edging out the previous record by only a couple of seconds.
What Makes the 2-Player 100% Category So Difficult?
For Battletoads, “100%” means completing the entire game with no skips of any kind. On its own, this is already a monumental feat—even solo. But co-op mode introduces an entirely new layer of intensity and precision:
Both players must perform perfectly, as one mistake can cost both their run.
Friendly fire is always active—players can accidentally kill one another with attacks, jumps, or even screen cutoff if someone moves too far ahead.
Several stages require absolute coordination and split-second timing, especially high-speed obstacle levels.
Level 11 is unplayable for two players on the original NTSC version, meaning Player 2 must use a Continue to rejoin for the final stage.
Level 12 (the final stage) is infamous for being unforgiving, precise, and brutally punishing—even to experienced runners.
While both players have been beating Battletoads solo for years, co-op mode is an entirely different beast—one that demands synchronization, communication, and an almost perfect run.
A Raw, Unfiltered Look at the Record-Setting Run
Unlike their usual edited and narrated content, this record attempt was shared as a raw, unpolished look at the gameplay, complete with a small player-cam capture in the corner. The run shows the real highs and lows—smooth execution through much of the game, a few minor mistakes, and the tense final push through the last stage where everything can fall apart in seconds.
In fact, the pair mentioned that after this world-record performance, they had multiple additional runs that were ahead of world-record pace going into the final level—only to have them collapse due to the brutal nature of Stage 12.
What’s Next for the Duo?
Despite securing the top spot, the players aren’t done yet. The two already plan to meet again in a few months to try to push the record even lower. Because they live several hours apart, their opportunities to attempt co-op runs are limited—but every time they get together, the skill ceiling gets pushed higher.
Given their experience, dedication, and the tantalizing near-perfect runs they had following the record, it’s very possible we’ll see an even faster time from them in the near future.
A Historic Achievement in Retro Co-Op Speedrunning
Beating Battletoads in any format is an accomplishment. Beating it in 2-player mode is an elite challenge. And setting a world record in the 100% co-op category? That’s something only the most coordinated and determined players can pull off.
This newly verified run stands as an impressive milestone in the speedrunning community—and a reminder of just how thrilling, chaotic, and punishing retro games can be at their highest levels.
Watch The Epic Video
The NES Page is a fan-based organization for retro & modern gaming enthusiasts, collectors, and nostalgia seekers. We work within the gaming community to increase awareness and overall fandom for those who grew up in the 80’s, and 90’s, or are fans of the classic gaming era. We aim to promote the retro & modern gaming community and its contributors.
