Jan 20 edit: Changed the category to be in the any% category due to some previously overseen mistakes that may have unintentionally created a extremely unfair challenge

A lot of things had happened in Arknights Speedruning in 2024.

We broke the 1000 speedrun mark, held the IS4 Maylander Record Keeping event running alongside LD's IS4 Bingo lockout and then worked together with the PlusMinus team with the Speedrunners Will Be The Seekers Event. Now we arrive at Arknights 5th Anniversary with new adjustments and addons that are made to simplify the early game of new players. However these add ons also helped make a certain challenge possible. The ability to E2 Amiya in less than 24 hours upon creating an account. So on the 4th Anniversary of Arknights Speedrun.com, it's time we revisit the category that started it all with a contest featuring a deadline longer than previous contests.

This is the New Account Speedrun Event Neural Netwrok Restoration

Objective:

Starting from a New Account, clear the stage JT8-3 in less than 12 hours without the use of a support unit. JT8-3 must be completed with a 3 star rating.

Rules and Entry Period

Entry Period: 19 January 2025, 08:00 (UTC-7) to 17 July 2025, 16:00 (UTC-7)

Review Period: 19 January 2025, 08:00 (UTC-7) to 21 July 2025, 16:00 (UTC-7)

• Timer Start: First frame when the screen fades to black upon clicking Confirm on the player name insert

• Timer Ends: First frame when the DP bar STOPS filling for the end goal of the category

In the event that DP is capped, then time ends on the first frame when the opaque Mission Success screen appears.

• Monetary Spending is prohibited
• CN server is prohibited from use
• Emulator or Mobile is fine
• No Macros
• No Editing
• The usage of items/operators only obtainable via limited time event runs outlined in this guide

Prize Pool

• 1st place: $50
• 2nd place: $30
• 3rd place: $15

The prizes can be a cash prize (sent via Paypal) or spending credit in Arknights in-game store

Winners will be messaged via speedrun.com messaging system or Discord DMs.

Small Text Stuff:

1. You must claim your prize before reset on August 10 or your prize will be nullified.
2. Global, KR and JP servers only
3. Runs that are well-optimized may be subject to manual review. Please have the raw, unedited recording used in your video uploaded and ready to be reviewed when requested.