Let's face it, when it comes to the Virtual Boy nobody wins. This was "portable" that proved that Nintendo was not infallible, much to the relief of Sony and Sega. However, before the system even hit Next Generation was out there trying to drum up some buzz with this exclusive contest. Unfortunately this advertisement came in the same issue that featured Next Generation tearing the very thought of the Virtual Boy apart. This is the very same issue that described the Virtual Boy as "baffling" and suggested that Nintendo may have lost their minds. But here we are, late in the issue, and they want me to write in and try to win this "baffling" system? Fine, I'll play your stupid little game, Next Generation Magazine. You want me to write a paragraph that consists of less than 100 words? Fine, I'll play by your stupid rules, but this is the paragraph you're getting:

"Hey Next Generation, what the HELL are you doing giving away a Virtual Boy? You're Next Generation Magazine, you're above this. That would be like Exotic Cars Magazine giving away a Geo Metro as a prize. You might as well just give your readers an open box, because at least that will be fun (and won't hurt their eyes). The way you have to stretch the truth and become creative in your wording just to get people to think about entering your stupid contest is offensive. Having said that, I hope I win."

The problem I have with this advertisement is that Next Generation had to be just a little too creative in order to sell people on the idea of winning a Virtual Boy. When they aren't trying to be funny ("Game Link for head-to-head action (sounds almost illegal)") they are spending their time giving the system backhanded compliments ("Virtual Boy is "virtually" incredible"). Another problem I have is how it feels like Next Generation is bending over backwards to compliment Nintendo, going as far as to call them the "company that has always been revolutionizing video game play." Really? Is that really necessary? You know you have a console that is an absolute joke on your hands, you said as much just 100 pages earlier. Yet now you're turning around and suggesting that Nintendo's track record is enough to sell the Virtual Boy? Journalistic integrity is a strange thing sometimes.

FROM: Superstars of Bad Advertising