I do, however, have a few issues with the actual controls themselves. Now, the in-game controls are all simple and use the touch screen at the bottom to tap on doors, people, etc., as this is a “point-and click”-style affair. But entering any of your answers in the game requires you to draw the numbers or letters out, apparently using the same recognition software that pissed me off in Brain Age. I literally could not write my name out at the beginning of the game because it wasn’t picking up the lower-case a in my first name as anything but a lower-case q. Thankfully, if you put a wrong answer in you can delete it, but this is still a bit infuriating.
All in all, a solid title on the DS at a time when Nintendo’s handheld needs solid titles to keep it relevant in the battle against the PSP. There’s a few things that need changing, but whether or not Level 5 addressed then in Professor Layton and Pandora’s Box remains to be seen. I enjoyed the game and look forward to seeing where the series goes in its next installment.
Don’t be surprised if Layton one day jumps to the Wii, though. It’s certainly the kind of franchise that could make Nintendo a lot of money and work well with the Wii remote.
Pros: A fun, engaging title from Level 5 that combines good design, a diversity of puzzles and decent use of the stylus make Layton a title worth looking into for all DS owners.
Cons: A bit shorter than I would have liked. Recognition software is sometimes a little infuriating.
Professor Layton and the Curious Village is rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB for Mild Violence.
Article comments
1 - Brandy
Great review! I liked this game a lot also. You really captured the story, gameplay and attributes it has.
This was one of the more quality games for the casual gamer. And yes, more serious gamers liked it too.