The author reminisces about their childhood experience with Nintendo Power, a magazine that was their primary source of information about Nintendo games before the internet. They share their excitement and nostalgia for the magazine, which included tips, tricks, and strategies for various games, as well as comics, ads, and contests.
The author fondly remembers the magazine's sections, such as the "NES Achievers" section, where readers could submit their high scores, and the "Top 30" section, which listed the most popular Nintendo games. They also recall the magazine's iconic covers, posters, and illustrations, which often featured beloved Nintendo characters.
However, the author also criticizes some of the magazine's decisions, such as the removal of numbered spines, which made it harder to organize the issues. They also poke fun at some of the magazine's weird ads and contests, including a prize to be an extra in the movie "The Mask," which was never made.
Throughout the summary, the author's nostalgia and affection for Nintendo Power are evident, and they share their memories of reading the magazine as a child.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Nintendo Power was a magazine that provided information about Nintendo games.
2. The first issue of Nintendo Power featured a map of Metroid and tips for Super Mario Brothers.
3. The magazine included a section called "NES Achievers" where readers could submit their high scores.
4. To prove their high scores, readers had to take a photo of their screen, which was difficult before the advent of digital cameras.
5. Nintendo Power printed guidelines on how to take a photo of a TV screen.
6. The magazine featured a section called "Top 30" which listed the most popular Nintendo games.
7. The magazine also featured comics based on popular Nintendo games.
8. Nintendo Power included ads for Nintendo games and accessories.
9. Each issue of the magazine came with a poster.
10. The magazine had a contest section where readers could win prizes such as a Street Fighter arcade machine.
11. Readers could also participate in a contest to design enemies for future Mega Man games.
12. The magazine featured a section called "Letters" where readers could submit their thoughts and opinions.
13. Some readers complained about games that did not meet their expectations.
14. The magazine's editors responded to reader complaints and suggestions.
15. The magazine's marketing strategy was to target a younger audience, but readers suggested targeting older gamers as well.
16. The magazine's name was not changed to "Nintendo Power 64" as suggested by some readers.
17. The magazine included a section called "Mario Paint" which featured art created using the game Mario Paint.