Video: A Brief Interview with One of the Original Nintendo Power Line Counselors

They were simpler times

by Mitch Vogel Fri 2nd Dec 2016

One of the most notable features of the days of the NES was the existence of the Nintendo Power Line. Seeing as it would be several years before the internet became usable to the world, obtaining information back in the day was mostly related to schoolyard discussions and advice from that one kid whose dad worked for Nintendo. The Nintendo Power Line was thus formed to help aid gamers who found themselves stuck in many of the difficult games of the day; anybody could call in and they'd be given advice for what to do next.

In light of the NES Mini's release, Vice recently got in touch with David Young – one of the original operators – to ask what it was like being part of the call center. It's a fascinating watch to be sure, and reminds us of how Nintendo was even then dedicated to delivering a gaming experience like no other.

Also, if you're interested in hearing more about this, we conducted our own interview with a former operator last year.

What do you think? Do you remember the Power Line? Do you wish Nintendo still did something similar? Drop us a comment in the section below.

[source youtube.com]

Mitch has been a fan of Nintendo ever since he got his start on the GBA in 2005. When he's not busy playing games or writing, you can find him down at his local MMA training facility learning how to punish the unrighteous.

1
SwitchVogel
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

That dude's haircut is quite distracting

2
Anti-Matter
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

So retro to see inside 80's Nintendo office situation.

3
artofmana
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

The whole concept of trying to help players discover the answer for themselves is something Nintendo does so well in their game design. How cool that they could make it a part of every aspect of their business.

4
1UP_MARIO
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

Nintendo. How it used to be. We always look back.

Nintendo. How it is now. We just want to look back.

5
Prizm
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

haha the video talks about the NES Classic being SOLD OUT. Guess that's what Nintendo wants — It's easy for something to sell out when you don't make enough!

6
Romeo-75
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

I still miss Nintendo Power magazine I loved that magazine all the great posters and game codes ., the only game I ever had to use their tip line for was Zelda ,though I dont like to admit that .

7
Slim1999
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

@Prizm that's the same thing I told them I called and complained.they said they was high in demand I say yea because each store barely got 5 consoles and most didn't even get the controllers lol

8
JLPick
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

I used it back in the NES days...I still have the brochures and pamphlets with Dr. Mario on them to send in your system to have it fixed! It's nice and fun at the same time to remember something that was great from mine and other's childhoods. This was very popular, and just like what was mentioned, you either used this, found it out yourself, or TALKED (not text) your friends. I wish I could go back to those days...even have all of the gaming magazines that were out at the time (and there were many). I'd also love to have Nintendo Power back (extremely miss that wonderful magazine)...but, we're in this new wonderful (sarcasm for the wonderful word) day in age. How I wish I had a delorian that could time travel or even a phone booth that could do it.

9
Kurtmt
Fri 2nd Dec 2016

That picture reminds me of the Nintendo movie with Fred Savage the "The Wizard" where they called into the Nintendo Power line for tips preparing for the video game contest.