The saga of Profesor Layton It is one of the most beloved in the puzzle game genre. Since its debut on the Nintendo DS in 2007, this series developed by Level-5 has enchanted gamers around the world with its incredible stories, charming characters and, of course, its ingenious puzzles.
With a unique mix of mystery, adventure and touches of interactive cinema, the world of Professor Layton has left an indelible mark on the history of video games. Join us to discover all the titles of the saga and how they have evolved over the years:
Professor Layton and the mysterious village
- Platforms: Nintendo DS, Android, iOS.
The journey begins with Professor Layton and the mysterious villagethe first title in the series. In this installment, the charismatic professor Hershel Layton and his young apprentice, Luke Tritonreceive a letter to investigate a peculiar town where the mystery of a rich heritage is hidden. The combination of clever puzzles with an absorbing narrative was an instant success, laying the groundwork for the future of the franchise. This game introduced us to the distinctive visual style along with cutscenes and captivating music that would become hallmarks of the series.
Professor Layton and Pandora’s Box
- Platforms: Nintendo DS, Android, iOS.
The second installment, Professor Layton and Pandora’s Boxdelves into the mystery of the Elysian Boxa supposedly deadly device. The story takes us across the continent on a luxury train called the “Molentary Express.” With over 150 new puzzles, this sequel not only expanded Layton and Luke’s story, but also offered even more creative challenges.
Professor Layton and the lost future
- Platforms: Nintendo DS, Android, iOS.
In Professor Layton and the lost futurethe original trilogy reaches its epic conclusion. The story addresses complex topics such as time travel, as Layton receives a letter from his friend Luke… from the future. With a more emotional narrative and a plot that explores Layton’s own past, this installment is considered by many to be one of the best in the saga. Here, character development reaches its peak, revealing surprises that will deeply affect fans.
Professor Layton and the call of the specter
- Platforms: Nintendo DS.
Professor Layton and the call of the specter It is the beginning of a new trilogy that works as a prequel of the events of the original trilogy. Layton investigates a strange phenomenon in a city that is being terrorized by a “giant specter.” Here a new key character is introduced, Emmy Altavathe professor’s assistant, who plays an important role in the future adventures. Additionally, this title was the first to offer a “London Life” minigame, a city life simulator that added even more value to the package.
Professor Layton and the Mask of Wonders
- Platforms: Nintendo 3DS.
Layton’s first title for the Nintendo 3DS, Professor Layton and the Mask of Wondersexpands the universe with 3D graphics, maintaining the characteristic visual style of the series. The story focuses on the mysterious “Masked Knight” who is causing chaos in the city of Montedore. The story allows us to explore more of Layton’s past and his connection to the “mask of wonders”, a relic with powers. This installment also added the ability to download additional puzzles for free, which offered more challenges in the long run.
Layton Brothers: Mystery Room
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
Layton Brothers: Mystery Room it’s a spin-off of the main series that was released for mobile devices, and focuses on Alfendi LaytonProfessor Layton’s son. In this installment, players take on the role of the rookie detective Lucy Bakerwho works alongside Alfendi in the Mystery Room Research Unit de Scotland Yard.
The game moves away from the traditional puzzle style of the main series and instead adopts a criminal investigation format. Players must examine crime scenes, collect evidence, and solve a series of darker, more realistic mysteries, with a tone reminiscent of classic detective games. Despite differences in style and mechanics, Layton Brothers
Professor Layton and the legacy of the Ashalanti
- Platforms: Nintendo 3DS.
Professor Layton and the legacy of the Ashalanti It is the conclusion of the second trilogy and marks the closure of the main arc of Professor Hershel Layton. In this story, the professor and his team embark on a trip around the world in search of a lost civilization, the Ashalantito solve the mystery of an ancestral “legacy.” With a farewell tone, this installment brings an end to the main saga with a mix of nostalgia, satisfying puzzles and emotional moments that resonated with fans.
El Profesor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney
- Platforms: Nintendo 3DS.
One of the most anticipated crossovers in video game history is El Profesor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorneya collaboration between Level-5 y Capcom which brings together two of the most iconic characters in the puzzle and lawyer genre: Professor Layton and Phoenix Wrightthe star defense attorney.
The plot takes place in a medieval kingdom called Labyrinthiawhere Layton and Luke join forces with Phoenix Wright and his assistant Maya Fey to solve a mystery related to a young woman named Espella Cantabella. The story mixes the traditional puzzles of the Layton saga with the dramatic trials characteristic of Ace Attorneycreating a unique dynamic. Players must solve puzzles and also participate in intense trials, where witnesses are questioned and evidence is presented.
This game was acclaimed for its ability to harmoniously integrate the two very different play styles, and its high-quality story. The crossover was a dream come true for fans of both franchises.
Layton’s Mysterious Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaire Conspiracy
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
In Layton’s Mysterious Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaire Conspiracythe saga takes a new direction by introducing Professor Layton’s daughter, Katrielle Laytonas the protagonist. Katrielle sets up her own detective agency and faces a series of strange cases involving London millionaires. Although some players missed the presence of Profesor LaytonKatrielle brought freshness to the series.
The deluxe edition for Nintendo Switch is an improved version of Katrielle’s adventure, with improved graphics, new puzzles and additional content.
Professor Layton and the New World by Steam
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Announced in 2023, Professor Layton and the Steampunk New World marks the return of Hershel Layton as the protagonist. The trailer revealed in the Nintendo Direct suggests an atmosphere inspired by the industrial revolution and the steampunkgenerating a lot of expectation among veteran fans.
Movie: Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva
Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva is an animated film that takes place chronologically after the events of Professor Layton and the Call of the Specter. The plot follows Professor Layton, Luke and Emmy as they investigate a case involving a famous opera singer who claims to have witnessed the return of a friend from the afterlife. The film captures the spirit of the saga with a captivating narrative, puzzles and a visual style faithful to the games.
Conclusion
The saga of Profesor Layton continues to evolve significantly since its inception in 2007, expanding to different platforms and formats. From the main games, through crossovers like El Profesor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorneyspin-offs como Layton Brothers: Mystery Roomand even an animated film, the franchise has managed to maintain its essence while exploring new terrain.
Now, with the arrival of Professor Layton and the New Steam WorldHershel Layton’s legacy continues, inviting players new and old to unravel mysteries in this fascinating puzzle world.
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