Frequently Asked Questions

What does TAS stand for?

TAS stands for Tool-Assisted Speedrun. It's a speedrun created using external tools that allow for tick-by-tick precision, save states, and input manipulation that wouldn't be possible in real-time gameplay. You can read more on the Trackmania Wiki TAS page.

How is TAS different from regular speedrunning?

In regular speedrunning, players attempt to complete a game or track in real-time, relying on their reflexes and skill. TAS removes these human limitations by allowing tick-perfect inputs, extensive planning, and analysis. Trackmania's physics engine runs at 100Hz (100 ticks per second), regardless of framerate, and TAS tools let you control inputs at this tick level. The goal is to achieve the theoretically fastest possible time, showcasing what's possible within the game's mechanics.

What is TMTAS Exchange?

TMTAS Exchange is the premier platform for Trackmania tool-assisted speedrunning. We provide leaderboards with trick-specific categories across every Trackmania game (TMNF, TMUF, Sunrise, Nations, Original), host TAS events and competitions, and serve as a central hub for the TAS community to share replays and compete for the fastest times.

How do I get started with TAS?

To start creating TAS runs in Trackmania, you'll need TMInterface, a tool that allows you to record and manipulate inputs tick-by-tick. The easiest way to get it is through TMLoader, a modloader for TrackMania Nations Forever that lets you install TMInterface with a single click. For more details, see the official TMInterface installation page. Once installed, you can begin creating your own TAS replays or analyzing existing ones.

We highly recommend reading the TrackMania TAS Tutorial by igntuL — an excellent comprehensive guide that walks you through everything from your first TAS to advanced techniques.

What tools do I need?

Essential tools for TAS include:

• TMLoader: A modloader for TMNF that makes installing TMInterface easy
• TMInterface: The primary tool for creating TAS runs — tick-by-tick input control, built-in input editor, save states, and more
• Video recording software (optional): For showcasing your runs — sharing a replay file or inputs is enough for leaderboard submissions

What is No Cut?

No Cut is a route type where the run must stay on the intended track path without cutting corners or taking shortcuts through off-track areas.

What is Vanilla?

Vanilla means no speed-generating bugs. This explicitly excludes Uberbugs, Noseboosts, and TPSlides. Some bugslides can generate speed in edge cases, but we intentionally avoid that gray area since it's very niche. In short: if a bug is used to gain speed, it's not Vanilla.

What is NOseboost?

NOseboost is a category that prohibits the use of noseboost techniques (a specific speed glitch). This category allows other tricks but excludes this particular exploit.

What is Unrestricted?

Unrestricted allows any and all techniques, glitches, and routes. This is the "anything goes" category where the only goal is the fastest possible time by any means available in the game.

What is LIS?

LIS (Low Input Strat) is a unique category where the goal is to complete the track with the fewest number of input changes, rather than the fastest time.

What is Uberbug?

Uberbug is a physics exploit that allows the car to gain massive speed through specific car and track interactions. It occurs during a bugslide and is one of the most powerful techniques in Trackmania TAS.

What is Noseboost?

Noseboost is a glitch where chaining multiple nosebugs can provide a massive speed boost. This technique requires precise angle and timing to execute properly, and is somewhat random and unpredictable in nature.

What is Nosebug?

Nosebug is the fundamental technique behind noseboosts — it occurs when performing bugslide inputs while the car is on its nose. Nosebugs are used for sharp direction changes, while chaining multiple nosebugs together (a noseboost) is what produces speed gains.

What is TPSlide?

TPSlide is a bugslide specific to the Island environment. At high speeds, it can grant speed similarly to bugslides on Stadium, but it also "snaps" the car's orientation so rapidly that it can look like teleportation.

What is GPS?

GPS stands for General Positioning System. In Trackmania, a GPS is simply a run that shows you where you're supposed to go on a map — a visual guide for the intended route.

What are TAS events?

TAS events are organized competitions where participants create TAS runs for specific tracks or challenges within a set timeframe. Events may have unique rules, categories, or themes.

How do I participate in events?

Check the Events page for active competitions. Each event will have specific rules, deadlines, and submission guidelines. Simply create your TAS run following the event rules and submit it before the deadline. You'll need an account on TMTAS Exchange to participate.

How do I upload a replay?

To upload a replay, navigate to the Upload page and fill out the form. You'll need to provide:

• Your replay file (.Replay.Gbx format)
• Author information (you can add multiple authors)
• Category tags (Vanilla, NOseboost, Unrestricted, LIS)
• Route type tags (No Cut, WR Route)
• Optional: Date of creation and exchange information

You must be logged in to upload replays.

What file format should my replay be?

Replays must be in .Replay.Gbx format, which is the standard Trackmania replay format. The maximum file size is 25MB. Most replays are much smaller than this limit.

What if the track isn't on the site yet?

If you're uploading a replay for a track that hasn't been added to TMTAS Exchange yet, the system will automatically detect this and add the track to our database.

Which Trackmania games are supported?

TMTAS Exchange supports replays from the following Trackmania games:

• TrackMania Nations Forever (TMNF)
• TrackMania United Forever (TMUF)
• TrackMania Sunrise
• TrackMania Nations
• TrackMania Original

What environments are available?

Tracks can be from any of these environments:

• Stadium
• Snow
• Desert
• Rally
• Island
• Coast
• Bay

Is there an API?

Yes! TMTAS Exchange provides a comprehensive REST API for accessing track data, leaderboards, replay information, and more. Check out the API Documentation for complete endpoint details and examples.