One of the newest innovations in the gaming world has caused a lot of controversy. Nintendo made a big deal out of what they call Demo Play, though it's not solely a Big-N innovation. Other companies are jumping on as well, and the gnashing of gamers' teeth can is practically audible at this point despite the fact that we know nothing about how these games will implement the function. Is it really such a big deal that games give inexperienced players a hand as they play?

Nintendo's announcement of Demo Play was met with groans from the gaming populace. "Who would use that?" everyone asked as the feature was seen as another capitulation to the dreaded and evil "Casual Market." While it certainly is geared to that market, the fact that it's optional makes it less of a concession and more of an added bonus to those who might care to use it. It's simply not going to ruin the challenge of gaming forever. In fact, it is likely to get more people enjoying games of a more traditional nature, especially those who don't feel like they can handle games like that and need help to learn how to handle them like we all grew up doing. New Super Mario Bros. Wii just might be a crossover hit!

Of course, I had to laugh at the reaction that the highly anticipated Bayonetta got when it announced a similar feature: letting you play with one hand. No longer was it maligned as the death of game challenges brought to us by those who would snatch our hobby from us and give it to the elderly and girls. No, it was seen as a possibly neat idea that will free one hand and create a more relaxed gaming atmosphere. What people want to do with their other hand while playing Bayonetta I can only guess, but the double standard here is what should shock me. It doesn't of course, but blaming Nintendo is just business as usual these days.



So, aside from the double standard, what's the big deal? It's not like they are forcing you to play this way. If you don't like the feature, then don't use it. It's as simple as that. There are plenty of features in games that I have declined to use over the years, though I don't begrudge them being there. The complaints are tantamount to hating on a game because it includes an Easy difficulty setting or an invincibility cheat. I love challenge as much as anyone, but when something is fully optional for the player to use or not, then I can't say I'm worried about it. We haven't even really seen what it's all about yet anyway, so maybe our teeth-grinding is a little premature anyway.