There's a feature of New Super Mario Bros. Wii that has caused a ripple of vague controversy, but I think that far from being a source of concern, it's a tantalising glimpse of the nature of the challenge awaiting some of Nintendo's biggest characters. It's the hint system and there are two parts to it. The first, Super Guide, kicks in to shepherd you out of a tight spot, the second, Hint Video, plays footage of the solution to a problem. Some fans have taken this to mean that Mario's going all casual (there's that word again), but it's quite the opposite.
Both features are entirely optional, meaning that experienced players can ignore them entirely and get on with the game without any interference whatsoever. Super Guide is only activated if you click 'yes' when the option appears, and even then you'll have had to die a number of times before the escape route appears. The Hint Video is only opened up when you go out of your way to open it. In no way is it the game stepping on your toes and giving the game away.
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This becomes really interesting when you think about the two superstars reappearing next year. Zelda and Metroid are both hovering just beyond the horizon, and there's just a chance Nintendo might decide to roll the system out into its other two marquee titles. Why? To up the challenge. Just think - if Nintendo is including a hint system to help newer players out, surely it stands to reason that the nature of the games could be more complex.
Imagine coming across a hulking behemoth in Metroid: Other M, the like of which you've never seen before. What do you do? How do you kill it? The hint system could be Nintendo's licence to making even tougher, more synapse busting games. And, of course, you wouldn't need to use it if you wanted to continue abusing yourself.
Not only does the hint system allow Nintendo to cater to the inexperienced without insulting old hands, but it means Nintendo can let its imagination run wild without worrying about leaving us behind. Exciting times - you'll see what we mean in our world exclusive New Super Mario Bros. Wii review, out 23 October. What do you think, readers?
