Nintendo recently had the Power Line return, together with the arrival of the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition. The Power Line used to be the game counselor service of Nintendo, which will definitely make gamers everywhere feel nostalgic.
Polygon stated that the Power Line was formerly one of the most innovative guides in gaming. Players generally relied on the Nintendo Power Line to learn how to go through difficult parts of popular titles like "The Legend of Zelda" or "Super Mario Bros. 3."
Current-generation gamers may refer to the Power Line as a walkthrough guide, with counselor manuals featuring hand-drawn maps, notes and other useful information that will ultimately help gamers complete various levels and missions. During the late 80's, Nintendo Power Line players could contact Game Play Counselors to receive automated walkthroughs, tips and tricks to successfully go through game levels.
The fully automated version that was brought back has the same features as the original version of the Nintendo Power Line. However, players will have to pay long distance call charges. Nintendo stopped the Power Line in 2010.
IGN reported that the Nintendo Power Line provided recorded tips, behind-the-scenes stories from the original Nintendo Game Play Counselors and other helpful details. Those who visited the Nintendo store in New York also enjoyed the launch event, themed after the 80's. There were plenty of activities like a Nintendo costume contest and a retro Nintendo game show.
Doug Bowser, senior VP of sales and marketing at Nintendo of America, said that many of them were fond of and had wonderful memories of the original NES. The launch activities for the NES Classic Edition allowed them to replicate the nostalgic feelings of playing the NES with the whole family for the first time.
The Nintendo Power Line managed to give tips on several classic titles. The NES Classic Edition system featured 30 classic games like "The Legend of Zelda," "Super Mario Bros.," "Donkey Kong" and "Pac-Man," among others.
Pat Wells, a Nintendo Power Line veteran, said that they used to be gameplay counselors, whose job involved converting players' frustrations into victories. The Nintendo Power Line was available from Nov. 11 to 13, 2016, while the NES Classic Edition arrived on November 11.
