Currently, runs are judged by In-Game Time (IGT) timing method. But, if someone does go back to the Airship during a New Game run, to get access to upgrades and costumes, the IGT would not take in consideration the first portion of the actual run.

With this in mind, should "mid-run resets" be allowed for New Game runs? Should IGT timing method be replaced for Real Time Attack (RTA) for New Game runs?

I would like to share some thoughts about this:

• Going back to the Airship is a normal game mechanic. Some could argue it should be allow for that reason.
• Going back to the Airship will give extra advantage to the run, at the cost of run time up to the reset point. That causes the necessity of adding both attempt times together for In-Game Time purposes (like done in this New Game Hard run I did). However, this could be considered "against the essence of the run", as New Game runs could be seen as "No Upgrade Categories".
• New Game runs could be judged by RTA timing method, with timing starting after confirming difficulty, and timing ending at the final hit of the second phase of the last boss.
• RTA timing method could have negative impact to some runners because of hardware difference.

Personally, I would be favorable in allowing "mid-run resets" for New Game runs, as I think it could have a positive impact on runs done on New Game settings, mostly New Game Hard runs, by giving some room for planning your reset (as shown on the run I've shared above). Of course, that advantage comes with a cost of time, and I would deem that as a fair trade, at least for New Game Hard runs. There is the possibility that not going back to the Airship is faster, but that means no extra tools for the runner, and higher risk in general (maybe with high reward though). Going back to the airship could also happen as soon as the run starts, to get an outfit that gives an advantage for New Game Easy runs. This possibility seems to be much less time consuming for the runner, and the extra advantage seems to be considerable. I have no preference in regards to timing method for this, but I see IGT being added together as the best option, with RTA being more straightforward.

I’m fine with it being allowed. As for timing, adding the IGT time seems simple enough just need to make sure you don’t skip past the first end screen too fast so that the time is easily seen.

Also the “no upgrades category” sounds interesting I wouldn’t be against adding something like that as a separate category if there was enough interest. Though I suppose that’s what the current new game is. So either allow the new rule of going back and/or add a new category that allows us to go back to the airship. Like keep new game as a category then add a new one called “airship OK” or something like that.

I don’t know, I’m rambling. Probably just easier to amend the new game rules for now.