Revamping SM64 Source Code for Unparalleled N64 Performance

Revamping SM64 Source Code for Unparalleled N64 Performance

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the N64 Architecture
   1. Shared N64 Memory
   2. Building a Frame on the N64
3. The Problem with Code Optimization
   1. The Secret to Further Optimization
   2. RAM Alignment and Compiler Flex
   3. Rewriting Every Single Function
4. Improving Efficiency and Performance
   1. Unwritten Loops and Illegal C-Code
   2. Making Functions More Elegant
   3. Removing Useless Variables and Duplicate Functionality
5. Reviewing the Mario 64 Source Code
   1. Fixing Code Issues and Rewriting Functions
   2. Avoiding Patchwork Fixes
   3. Restructuring Files and Inlining Assembly Functions
   4. Combining Functions and Outlining Snippets
6. More Optimizations and Implications
   1. Implementing Batch Rendering and Calculating as Few Times as Possible
   2. Removing Debug Codes and Fixing Bottlenecks
7. The Possibility of Multiplayer Mode
   1. Overcoming the Renderer Bottleneck
   2. Expanding the Potential for Multiplayer
8. The Thesaurus Ship of the Original Mario 64 Source
   1. Improved Sound and Render Speed
   2. Faster Level Processing and Texture Memory
   3. Overall Frame Time Reduction and Increased FPS

Introduction

In this article, we will Delve into the world of code optimization and explore how the Mario 64 source code has been enhanced to improve performance on the Nintendo 64 (N64) hardware. The author of the article claims to have Read, optimized, and bug-fixed the entire Mario 64 source code, resulting in a game that runs up to 6 times faster on real N64 hardware than the original code. We will explore the techniques and optimizations employed by the author to achieve this remarkable feat.

Understanding the N64 Architecture

Before we dive into the optimizations, it is essential to understand the unique architecture of the N64 and how it processes frames. The N64 features shared memory between the render unit (RCP) and the logic unit (CPU), facilitated by a shared Rambus transport system. This memory sharing allows for various special effects and real-time rendering but comes with performance implications due to resource contention. We will explore the intricacies of building a frame on the N64 and how the CPU and RCP work in Parallel.

The Problem with Code Optimization

Initially, one might question the possibility of further optimizing the Mario 64 code, given the significant improvements already achieved. However, the author reveals the secret lies in the shared N64 memory and the CPU and RCP's parallel execution. By ensuring the CPU finishes its tasks quickly, the RCP can have exclusive access to the Rambus memory, resulting in faster frame rendering. The author identifies three main areas of optimization: fixing RAM alignment and utilizing compiler flex, rewriting every single function, and addressing the non-optimized nature of the original code.

Improving Efficiency and Performance

To optimize the code further, the author focuses on unwritten loops and illegal C-code in the original Mario 64 source. By eliminating these inefficiencies, the code becomes more streamlined and faster to run. Additionally, functions throughout the codebase are made more elegant, reducing unnecessary comparisons and code load. The author also identifies and removes useless variables and duplicate functionality, resulting in improved RAM usage and reduced instruction cache misses.

Reviewing the Mario 64 Source Code

A comprehensive code review of the Mario 64 source reveals areas for improvement. The author addresses issues such as unwritten loops, illegal C-code usage, inefficient structures, duplicate functionality, and redundant safety checks. By fixing these code-related problems, the author not only achieves performance gains but also enhances the overall maintainability and efficiency of the codebase.

More Optimizations and Implications

The article continues to explore additional optimization techniques applied to the Mario 64 source. Batch rendering is implemented, allowing for the rendering of all instances of a particular Type at once, minimizing redundant data reloading. Calculations are also performed as few times as possible, avoiding unnecessary computations and data transfers. The author highlights the significance of correctly handling RAM segments during runtime and explains the impact on performance.

The Possibility of Multiplayer Mode

One of the limitations in the original Mario 64 was the lack of a multiplayer mode, primarily due to performance constraints. However, with the optimizations and enhancements made by the author, the bottleneck that previously hindered multiplayer is no longer present. The article discusses the potential for a split-screen multiplayer mode in a future Mario 64 mod, taking AdVantage of the improved performance.

The Thesaurus Ship of the Original Mario 64 Source

The article concludes with a summary of the improvements achieved through the code optimizations. Comparisons are made between the improved version and the vanilla Mario 64, showcasing significant boosts in sound performance, render speed, level processing, texture memory, and overall frame time reduction. The author's mod demonstrates a remarkable increase in FPS, with potential for even further improvements as new optimizations are discovered. The article also expresses excitement for the release of a built-in split-screen multiplayer mode in the modded version of Mario 64.

Highlights:

• The Mario 64 source code has been read, optimized, and bug-fixed by the author.
• The game now runs up to 6 times faster on real N64 hardware than the original code.
• The shared N64 memory architecture and parallel execution of the CPU and RCP are key factors in further optimization.
• RAM alignment, compiler flex, and rewriting every function in the codebase are part of the optimization process.
• Inefficient code structures, unwritten loops, and duplicate functionality are addressed to improve efficiency.
• The modded version achieves significant performance gains in sound, rendering, level processing, and texture memory.
• A built-in split-screen multiplayer mode may be possible in the modded version.
• The author expresses gratitude to supporters and plans to release more optimization videos in the future.