Released in 2007 for the Nintendo DS, is the first installment in the popular puzzle adventure video game series. The game follows Professor Hershel Layton and his young assistant, Luke Triton, as they investigate a series of mysterious puzzles in the quaint village of St. Mystere.
Gameplay
is a point-and-click adventure game that combines puzzle-solving with an engaging storyline. Players navigate through the village, interacting with characters and uncovering clues to solve over 150 puzzles. The puzzles range in difficulty from simple riddles to complex logic problems.
In addition to puzzles, the game features a variety of minigames and exploration elements. Players can collect coins to purchase items and unlock additional puzzles, and they can also explore the village to find hidden objects and interact with the villagers.
Story
The game’s story revolves around the mysterious death of the village’s mayor, Augustus Reinhold. Professor Layton and Luke are hired by the mayor’s daughter, Flora Reinhold, to investigate the murder and uncover the secret behind the "Golden Apple," a legendary artifact that is said to be hidden in the village.
As Layton and Luke delve into their investigation, they encounter a cast of eccentric characters, each with their own secrets and motives. They must use their wits and puzzle-solving abilities to unravel the truth behind the murder and uncover the secrets of the Curious Village.
Development
was developed by Level-5, a Japanese video game development company known for its quality RPGs and puzzle games. The game was directed by Akihiro Hino, who also directed the other games in the Professor Layton series.
The game’s art style was inspired by classic European children’s books, and the music was composed by Tomohito Nishiura, who also composed the music for the other Professor Layton games.
Reception
was a critical and commercial success, selling over 12 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its engaging story, challenging puzzles, and charming art style. It received numerous awards, including the BAFTA Award for Best Handheld Game in 2008.
Legacy
spawned a successful franchise that includes six main games, several spin-offs, and an anime series. The game’s success helped to popularize the puzzle adventure genre on handheld consoles, and it remains one of the most beloved Nintendo DS games of all time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is appropriate for children?
A: Yes, the game is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB. It contains no violence or mature content, and its puzzles are designed to be fun and challenging for all ages.
Q: How many puzzles are there in ?
A: The game features over 150 puzzles, ranging in difficulty from simple to complex.
Q: What is the Golden Apple?
A: The Golden Apple is a legendary artifact that is said to be hidden in the village of St. Mystere. It is the key to unlocking the secrets of the village and solving the mystery of the mayor’s murder.
Additional Information
- Release Date: February 15, 2007
- Platform: Nintendo DS
- Developer: Level-5
- Publisher: Nintendo
- Genre: Puzzle adventure
References
Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box
After solving the latest puzzle sent to him by his old friend, Dr. Schrader, Professor Hershel Layton is summoned to the town of Misthallery. There, he meets Emmy Altava, a young girl who believes that her father has been cursed by a music box given to him by a mysterious toymaker known as the "puppet master."
Layton, Emmy, and his apprentice, Luke Triton, embark on an investigation to uncover the truth behind the curse and the whereabouts of Emmy’s father. Their journey leads them through a series of puzzles, riddles, and dangerous encounters with the puppet master’s minions.
As they delve deeper into the mystery, they discover a sinister plot involving the puppet master’s desire to use the music box to summon a malevolent entity known as the "Eternal Diva." Layton and his companions must race against time to save Emmy’s father and prevent the cataclysmic consequences of the Eternal Diva’s release.
Professor Layton and the Unwound Future
In "Professor Layton and the Unwound Future," Professor Layton, Luke, and Flora travel ten years into the future to London where the city is a dystopian wasteland. They team up with future versions of themselves to prevent the present from becoming a grim reality.
The trio discovers a conspiracy involving a sinister organization called Targent and a machine that can alter time. They race against time to stop Targent’s plans and return to their own timeline.
Along the way, they encounter puzzles and riddles, uncovering secrets and allies who aid them in their quest. Ultimately, Professor Layton and his companions must confront their future selves to save London and preserve the present.
Professor Layton and the Last Specter
In the enchanting town of Misthallery, Professor Layton, Luke, and Emmy embark on a thrilling adventure. A mysterious specter is said to be haunting the town, leaving behind a trail of elusive clues.
As they delve into the enigma, Layton and his companions encounter an enigmatic figure known as Aurora, who claims to possess a connection to the specter. Together, they navigate a labyrinth of riddles, explore hidden passageways, and uncover the town’s concealed past.
Along their perilous journey, they face dangerous traps, unravel ancient secrets, and uncover the true nature of the specter. With their sharp intellect and unwavering determination, they strive to solve the mystery and restore balance to Misthallery.
Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask
In the town of Monte d’Or, Professor Layton and his assistant Luke are investigating the legend of the Miracle Mask, said to grant wishes. However, the mask has been stolen, and a series of kidnappings has occurred.
As they investigate, Layton and Luke encounter a cast of eccentric characters, including masked knights, a mysterious theater troupe, and an enigmatic archaeologist. They must navigate puzzles, solve a series of riddles, and uncover the secrets behind the mask.
Along the way, they learn about the town’s troubled history and the tragic events that led to the mask’s disappearance. As they piece together the truth, Layton and Luke must confront the true nature of the Miracle Mask and the darkness that it conceals.
Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy
Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy is a Nintendo 3DS puzzle video game developed by Level-5. It is the sixth and final game in the Professor Layton series, and was released in Japan, Europe and North America in 2013.
The game follows the adventures of Professor Layton and his assistant Luke as they embark on a journey to find the Azran Legacy, a mythical treasure that is said to be hidden somewhere in the world. Along the way, they encounter a variety of puzzles and challenges, and must use their wits to solve them in order to progress.
Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its puzzles and story. However, the game was also criticized for its lack of innovation and its repetitive puzzles.
Professor Layton and the Lost Future
Professor Layton and the Lost Future is a puzzle adventure game for the Nintendo DS developed by Level-5. It is the second game in the Professor Layton series, following . The game was released in Japan in 2007 and in North America and Europe in 2008.
In the game, Professor Layton and his assistant Luke Triton travel to the future in search of Flora Reinhold, Luke’s future self. They arrive in London in the year 2081 and find that it is a very different city from the one they know. The city is under martial law and the citizens are living in fear of a mysterious group known as Targent.
Layton and Luke must team up with Flora and her friends to stop Targent and save the future. Along the way, they will solve a variety of puzzles and face many challenges.
Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney
Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney is a crossover video game developed by Level-5 and Capcom. The game is a combination of the Professor Layton and Phoenix Wright series and follows the titular characters as they team up to investigate a mysterious murder.
The game features gameplay elements from both series, including puzzles from Professor Layton and courtroom trials from Phoenix Wright. The story takes place in London and follows Layton and Wright as they investigate the murder of a prominent professor. The game received positive reviews from critics, who praised the combination of gameplay elements and the well-written story.
Level-5 Games
Level-5 is a Japanese video game developer and publisher known for creating award-winning role-playing games (RPGs) with distinctive characters, engaging stories, and high-quality gameplay.
Founded in 1998, Level-5 has produced a wide range of critically acclaimed titles, including the "Professor Layton" series, the "Ni no Kuni" series, and the "妖怪ウォッチ" (Yo-kai Watch) franchise. Their games are often praised for their captivating narratives, charming art style, and innovative game mechanics.
Level-5 is also known for its collaborations with other companies, such as Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft. The company has released games on multiple platforms, including the Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Level-5 RPGs
Level-5 is a Japanese video game developer known for creating some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed RPGs in the industry. Their games are characterized by their unique art style, memorable characters, and engaging stories. Some of the most popular Level-5 RPGs include:
- Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King: A classic JRPG that follows the story of a group of heroes who must defeat a powerful demon.
- Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch: A beautiful and heartwarming RPG that follows the story of a young boy who must save his mother by traveling to a magical world.
- Inazuma Eleven: A unique soccer RPG that features a cast of customizable characters and intense gameplay.
- Yo-kai Watch: A quirky and fun RPG that follows the story of a young boy who befriends a group of mischievous spirits.
Level-5’s RPGs are known for their high quality and engaging gameplay, and they have consistently received praise from critics and players alike. If you’re looking for a great RPG to play, then you should definitely check out one of Level-5’s games.
Nintendo DS Games
The Nintendo DS is a popular handheld gaming console that supports a wide range of games. These games come in both physical cartridge and digital download formats, and offer a variety of gameplay experiences. Some of the most popular Nintendo DS games include:
- Super Mario 64 DS: A reimagining of the classic Nintendo 64 game, featuring updated graphics and controls.
- The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass: A sequel to The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, featuring a similar cel-shaded art style and touch-screen controls.
- Pokémon Diamond and Pearl: The fourth generation of Pokémon games, introducing new Pokémon and regions to explore.
- Animal Crossing: Wild World: A life simulation game where players can build their own town and interact with anthropomorphic animals.
- Nintendogs: A pet simulation game where players can raise and train virtual dogs.
Nintendo 3DS Games
The Nintendo 3DS is a handheld gaming console released in 2011. It features stereoscopic 3D graphics without the need for special glasses. The console has a wide library of games, including first-party titles from Nintendo and third-party titles from other developers.
Some of the most popular Nintendo 3DS games include:
- Super Mario 3D Land
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
- Animal Crossing: New Leaf
- Pokémon X and Y
- Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS
Professor Layton Spin-offs
Professor Layton, the renowned puzzle-solving professor, has inspired several spin-off games that offer unique takes on the franchise. These spin-offs include:
- Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney (2012): A crossover with the Ace Attorney series, where Layton and Phoenix Wright team up to solve a murder mystery.
- Layton Brothers: Mystery Room (2012-2017): A series of puzzle-solving games that follow Hershel and Luke as they investigate various mysteries.
- EX (2017): A mobile adaptation of the original Professor Layton game with updated graphics and new features.
- Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaires’ Conspiracy (2017): A prequel that introduces a new protagonist, Katrielle Layton, who runs a detective agency in London.
- Professor Layton and the New World of Steam (2018): A mobile puzzle-adventure hybrid that explores the world of steam engines and offers a different gameplay style from the main series.