Question for new super mario bros ds

For the remaining time records, are checkpoint flags allowed? On the speedrun website, the fastest runs are 27 seconds, but here 10 seconds are shown. (400- your time).  The only way to get that record is to use the half way flag, I just wanted to make sure that this was intentional, because usually they're not allowed.

   If you dont know what I mean: you can reach the halfway point and intentionally kill yourself to reset the timer, meaning you can half the total time it took you to reach the end.

For reference:
My remaining time while playing w1-1 fully was 369
But when I used the checkpoint it was 388

You must use checkpoints if you want the best score.
This apply too for Super Mario Bros, Super Mario Bros Lost levels and Super Mario World.

Thank you, just wanted to make sure

Yes. Checkpoints are allowed.

VGR has different rules mostly because of the honor system we use. We don't require proof for any records, but any member can request proof for a grey square record at any time. Because of this, the rules and types of records we allow are ones that can easily be proved with a picture/screenshot. Generally, the easiest difficulty, or the best/fastest way to get a score is the preferred ruleset. For games with remaining time charts, if they have checkpoints, use them (Unless there are games rules for them on the group name). That would always be the default here on VGR.

An example of why we couldn't use no checkpoint for picture proof only: Let's say the Best Time remaining is 360 for a level without checkpoint, but 380 with checkpoint. What stops someone from using checkpoint and waiting at the goal until 360 for easy maxes? No Checkpoint would only work with video proof, which isn't accepted on VGR at the moment.

If you would like remaining time charts with no checkpoints or a different ruleset for a certain game, then you can request it, though it may be best to wait until VGR v7 comes out as it will allow for Game Rules and different types of records, as well as video proof.

Hopefully that info helps understand the reasoning behind our default rulesets.

Thank you, your explanation makes a lot of sense

Clear and nice answer, thanks Dark Eon Master for taking care of it.