Before the days of internet and google, gamers did not have a lot of options when they get stuck on a particular game. So Nintendo tried to remedy the situation by introducing fans to the "Power Line", a service where players can call a representative from Nintendo who will try to help gamers with their gaming concerns.
Well, it looks like Nintendo is definitely punching up the nostalgia as they are looking to revive the NES' hint line for one weekend. This will coincide with the release of the NES classic edition which will be released in a few days' time. So for those who had a lot of memories calling the hotline hoping that their parents won't catch them when the phone bills arrive it might be a good idea to give the service a try once it goes live for one weekend.
Here is a snippet of the official announcement from Techno Buffalo of the revival of the "Power Line". "The original Power Line was a beloved service in the '80s that connected fans to Nintendo Game Play Counselors who offered helpful tips and tricks."
The excerpt goes on to say a few revealing things like how the service would be automated instead of having a live person on the other line. It also goes on to say the number that you need to dial to hear some recorded tips for a bunch of games. As an added the bonus, the messages would also include some behind the scenes stories from the original Nintendo "Power Line" Counselors.
It is actually a fun way for Nintendo to further drum up the current tide of nostalgia they have been riding. With their Nintendo Switch coming up in March, the NES "Power Line" might be a great reminder of times when gaming was really simpler.
According to Engadget, The Nintendo NES Classic Edition will release on Nov. 11.
