Joystiq

Professor Layton 3DS to arrive in Europe next year

Mike Schramm — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:45:00 EST

The Professor Layton titles traditionally take their sweet time heading across the continent from Japan to the EU, and the series' first 3DS entry, called Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle in Japan, is no exception. It arrived in the land of the Rising Sun last February, and hasn't been released in Europe or North America yet. But it looks like one of those releases is planned: The end of a trailer for Professor Layton and the Spectre's Call in Europe teases that players should "get ready for an all-new Layton next year."

Presumably, that's the 3DS title (though the name usually changes on the trip over), and that tease means we'll see it out sometime in 2012. We haven't seen quite as much confirmation on a North American release, but since the last title hit Europe this week and North America last month, 2012 is a good bet for us 'mericans as well. After all, it's not like Level-5 doesn't want to release it here, it's just that translation can take time.

Professor Layton 3DS to arrive in Europe next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Last Specter review: Mystery in Misthallery

JC Fletcher — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST

The Professor Layton series is consistent in the extreme; every game has a variation on the same plot, in a similar environment, acting as a vector for puzzles in the same style as previous games. There's definitely a formula.

That formulaic nature almost forces me into reviewer cliches. "If you didn't like Professor Layton before," I might say, "there's nothing here to change your mind." "Fans of the puzzle-adventure genre will be well-served here." Even the previous Professor Layton review opened with a note about how similar these games are.

But a true gentleman finds a solution to every puzzle put before him, whether it be a tangle of steel cogs or a review of a game that is almost identical to its predecessor. Luckily, I did feel that Professor Layton and the Last Specter improved on its forebears, in both perceptible and imperceptible ways. I like all the other Laytons, but I like this one just a little better. Try this puzzle and then head past the break to read more!

Gallery: Professor Layton and the Last Specter (9/8/11)

Continue reading Professor Layton and the Last Specter review: Mystery in Misthallery

Professor Layton and the Last Specter review: Mystery in Misthallery originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We don't object to this Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright trailer one bit

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 01:40:00 EST

Sure, it's all in Japanese. And sure, we're not really sure what's going on as a result, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy the latest trailer for Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright on Nintendo 3DS. No plans exist for a US release yet, but Level 5 gives us hope with its recent news about Ni no Kuni. Layton next, please!

We don't object to this Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright trailer one bit originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 01:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Catch up with Professor Layton before the Last Specter arrives

JC Fletcher — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 21:30:00 EST

This trailer for the latest Professor Layton game, the Last Specter, gives us a refresher on the story so far -- including characteristically hilarious moments, like a super-serious cutscene transitioning into a puzzle about stacking hamburgers.

Here's the confusing bit: since Last Specter is actually a prequel, set at the time of Layton and Luke's first meeting, none of the things being recapped have happened yet in the new game. This would probably be a lot harder to deal with if we actually tried to pay attention to the stories in Layton games.

Catch up with Professor Layton before the Last Specter arrives originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Last Story, Pandora's Tower due in Europe in 2012, more Euro releases dated

JC Fletcher — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 10:35:00 EST

The Wii does have a lifespan beyond 2011 -- in Europe. Nintendo of Europe sent out a list (PDF) of upcoming titles today, including the two other games for which Operation Rainfall is campaigning: Mistwalker's The Last Story and Ganbarion's Pandora's Tower. Both are slated for 2012 in Europe now, and have yet to be announced in North America. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword will be released in Europe November 18 while Kirby's Adventure Wii is coming in December.

The release list also provides November and December windows for Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7 on 3DS, respectively. Super Pokemon Rumble will also be released in Europe this December. On DS, DQ Monsters Joker 2 is coming October 7, Kirby Mass Attack is due October 28, and Professor Layton will answer The Spectre's Call in November. Cave Story will finally come to DSiWare in Europe in Q4.

A few standout downloads listed: in Q4, the 3DS Virtual Console will see releases of Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins, Metroid II, and the Game Boy Bionic Commando game. Nintendo previously blocked the NES version from Virtual Console.

The Last Story, Pandora's Tower due in Europe in 2012, more Euro releases dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva coming to a DVD player near you

Jordan Mallory — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Viz Media, the anime localization super-giant responsible for bringing both Bleach and Naruto to North America, will continue its cultural conquest of the western continent by releasing Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva in North American markets.

The film takes place between the events of Professor Layton and the Last Specter (due out this fall) and Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box, and should be available at your local otaku shelter "later this year." The 2009 animated film featuring everyone's favorite ~~top-hat~~ professor had previously undergone westernization for its 2010 release in the UK, however Viz Media's adaptation will be the first version available in the US and Canada for those weary of importing.

The film has been such a success in Japan and abroad that Layton developer Level 5 has already commissioned a sequel, however there has been no mention of localization for that adventure so far.

Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva coming to a DVD player near you originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton solving social scene in 'Professor Layton Royale'

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:30:00 EST

Professor Layton developer Level-5 is teaming up with social gaming's DeNA on Professor Layton Royale. Andriasang reports the new social game has players selecting from three different classes and is a crossover of Layton and Kaito Royale.

The game will initially launch in Japan, with the potential of "localized versions to international users on the highly anticipated global Mobage service." With DeNA's acquisition of ngmoco last year -- and Layton's international appeal -- the company would be leaving money on the table if it didn't take advantage of the global opportunity.

Crossovers are something Professor Layton is getting comfortable with, as the puzzle master also has an upcoming collaboration with Capcom's ace attorney in Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright for 3DS.

Professor Layton solving social scene in 'Professor Layton Royale' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Last Specter coming to North America

JC Fletcher — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:40:00 EST

It didn't make it onto Nintendo's stage presentation, or really any kind of announcement, but many of you have probably already solved the puzzle of whether Nintendo is localizing Professor Layton and the Last Specter for DS. Imagine us pointing our finger dramatically when we say ... it is!

Nintendo quietly released a trailer and screens for the localized fourth entry, the first of a new trilogy set before the three games that have already come out. The media does not include anything about the "London Life" RPG, a Brownie Brown-developed Layton RPG unlocked at the end of the Japanese release of this game. But let's be optimistic and assume Nintendo hasn't removed that great-looking bonus.

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Professor Layton and the Last Specter coming to North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Level-5 trademarks 'Professor Layton and the Last Specter'

JC Fletcher — Sat, 28 May 2011 16:30:00 EST

Last year at E3, Nintendo showed off Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle (the fifth Layton game) as part of its 3DS showcase -- without a word about Professor Layton and the Specter's Flute (Layton 4), leading fans (and, well, us) to fear that the company would pass over the last DS game in favor of getting that new 3D hotness into stores.

A North American trademark (number 85325626, if you want to see it yourself) found by Siliconera suggests that won't be the case. Level-5 filed a trademark for "Professor Layton and the Last Specter." Last year around the same time, Level-5 trademarked Professor Layton and the Unwound Future, which was then announced at E3 and released in September. So it seems likely Nintendo has at least one more game in store for the regular old DS this year!

Now, let's just hope London Life survives localization.

Level-5 trademarks 'Professor Layton and the Last Specter' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 May 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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3DS Japanese launch lineup announced, along with BlazBlue for later in 2011

JC Fletcher — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 01:00:00 EST

As expected, Nintendo revealed the Japanese launch lineup for the 3DS at Nintendo World 2011, and -- as expected -- it's about 10 games. Eight, to be specific. The games that will be available on the Japanese launch date of February 26 include:

Winning Eleven 3DSoccer (5,800 yen/$70)
Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition (4,800 yen/$58)
Samurai Warriors Chronicle (6,090 yen/$73)
Tobidasu! Puzzle Bobble 3D (4,980 yen/$60)
Nintendogs + Cats (Toy Poodle & New Friends, French Bulldog & New Friends, Shiba & New Friends, 4,800 yen each)
Ridge Racer 3D (6,090 yen/$73)
Combat of Giants: Dinosaurs 3D (5,040 yen/$61)
Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle (5,980 yen/$72)

In addition, Nintendo's list of 2011 games reveals some new titles, including BlazBlue Continuum Shift 2, ports of Tales of the Abyss and Raving Rabbids Travel in Time, and a third game in the DS's Tank Beat series.

[Update: Famitsu posted pictures from the stage, showing box arts and prices for many of these games. We've updated the list with prices; check Famitsu for box arts. Keep in mind that Japanese game prices are usually higher than American prices; DS games typically retail for about 4,800 yen/$58.]

3DS Japanese launch lineup announced, along with BlazBlue for later in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Jan 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright ... in sales

JC Fletcher — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST

Though Phoenix Wright and Professor Layton's first in-game face-off was just announced for 3DS, Layton has already triumphed over the plucky defense attorney in another arena: game sales. Capcom and Level-5 noted life-to-date sales for both series in the announcement of the title, and Professor Layton trounces the Ace Attorney series with 9.5 million units sold worldwide, versus Ace Attorney's 3.9 million.

That 3.9 million includes a lot of versions of the same games. Since the first Phoenix Wright's release in Japan in 2001, the five games have been released on Game Boy Advance, PC, DS, mobile phones, iPhone, and WiiWare. The four Professor Layton games have only been released once each on DS, with a couple of original games on Japanese cell phones. However, Layton has Nintendo marketing behind it in the west, with Nintendo pushing the puzzle games to audiences beyond the core gamer set.

Even though this game announcement was beyond effective with fanboys (we know from, um, reading comments and not personal experience at all!), the two companies still have audience expansion in mind. "We feel that by drawing upon the strengths of both series, this collaboration will bring new, casual game players to the adventure game genre and into the world of gaming in general while strengthening the value of the two brands overall."

Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright ... in sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Investigate the Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright trailer

JC Fletcher — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 22:30:00 EST

We saw a bit of off-screen footage of the spectacularly improbable Professor Layton vs. Gyakuten Saiban this morning, but now we can see the whole thing in luscious direct feed, thanks to the now-open website. In the trailer, it appears that Professor Layton accuses a girl of being a witch, to which her lawyer characteristically objects. After that, Hershel and Phoenix (and Maya and Luke) team up and explore Labyrinth City.

The website also features concept art, screens, and introduction trailers for both series. What it doesn't feature is a release date. Check out the trailer after the break.

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Investigate the Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle to offer daily downloadable puzzles

JC Fletcher — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:50:00 EST

Level-5 is expanding the Professor Layton franchise into 3D with the new Mask of Miracle, but that added dimension isn't the only expansion taking place in this game. During the Level-5 Vision conference, CEO Akihiro Hino announced that the new 3DS puzzle title will have daily downloadable puzzles for a year. Previous Layton games have had weekly puzzles available through the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. (And if you didn't know that, you suddenly have a bunch of bonus puzzles waiting in your Layton games!)

Hino also noted that Mask of Miracle was originally developed -- and announced -- as a DS game, but added, "We redid it from scratch midway through." He also revealed that the story takes place across two timelines, with a younger Professor Layton and the present-day (in the game's world) version both solving puzzles.

Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle to offer daily downloadable puzzles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton meets Phoenix Wright in crossover 3DS game

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:45:00 EST

Professor Layton VS Gyakuten saiban -- the Japanese name for a new crossover 3DS game that features both Phoenix Wright and Professor Layton -- was revealed last night by Level-5 during a press conference in Tokyo. The game is being developed in collaboration with Capcom, though Ace Attorney creator Shu Takumi will be heading up writing. It appears that this marks the beginning of Level-5 and Capcom's much teased collaboration, and one of the four surprise titles Level-5 said it would reveal during its Vision 2010 event currently taking place in Japan.

1UP's liveblog details the gameplay of Professor Layton VS Gyakuten saiban as a "combination of puzzles and crime mystery," while Level-5 president Akihiro Hino characterizes the collaboration by comparing it to "two TV shows getting together and making a movie." The game's official website is scheduled to open officially on October 20, but we've embedded a shaky cam video of the reveal trailer after the break, courtesy of 8-4's Mark MacDonald.

Gallery: Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright (3DS)

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Professor Layton meets Phoenix Wright in crossover 3DS game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Level-5 president on making a better Professor Layton for America

Andrew Yoon — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:45:00 EST

With millions of copies sold, Level-5's Professor Layton franchise is an unquestionable hit. Already, the property has spawned one feature-length film, and is expanding to its fifth game in Japan. (The Unwound Future, which was released two weeks ago in America, is the third game in the series.) Who could have predicted the runaway success of the series? Not even Level-5's president, Akihiro Hino, could have seen it coming.

In an exclusive interview, Hino told us that "I obviously didn't imagine the series would achieve the success it has." But, he attributes the franchise's achievements to Level-5's goal to "make an adventure game that anyone could play." Given the popularity of the games, Hino finds it unsurprising that a number of copycats have since followed, such as Puzzle Agent and Blue Toad Murder Files. "Doesn't it follow that if a game gets popular enough, similar games will start to appear?," he asked us.

Nintendo eventually picked up the publishing rights for a North American release, which posed a number of challenges for the localization team. Hino admits that the first game was developed "without much consideration" for international audiences. As such, "we have had to alter and even remove certain puzzles," Hino explained to us. "The reason is usually due to their use of Japanese, or because a puzzle or joke would work in some regions but not in others. Ways of thinking, language, culture, and even religion differ from region to region, so we remove puzzles we feel wouldn't work, and try to replace them with puzzles that players from that market will enjoy."

Gallery: Professor Layton and the Unwound Future (DS)

Continue reading Level-5 president on making a better Professor Layton for America

Level-5 president on making a better Professor Layton for America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Unwound Future review: A slow crawl through time

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 11:20:00 EST

The Professor Layton series suffers from a curse shared by all franchises which create and define their own genres. While games cut from a less original cloth can change wildly between iterations, a logic-puzzle-adventure-mystery series like Layton doesn't really have much room to mix things up without defying the tropes that made everyone fall in love with it in the first place. In short, don't expect the Good Professor to engage in any first-person deathmatches any time soon.

The way franchises like Layton introduce change between entries is by expanding the game's universe and deepening the player's connections with its characters. Professor Layton and the Unwound Future does so swimmingly -- but wow, does it take its sweet, gentlemanly time in doing so.

Gallery: Professor Layton and the Unwound Future (DS)

Continue reading Professor Layton and the Unwound Future review: A slow crawl through time

Professor Layton and the Unwound Future review: A slow crawl through time originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Solve Layton's puzzles or die in a Bay area phone booth

Justin McElroy — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

If you're in the San Francisco area on September 7, you may want to stop by the Union Square shopping center, where characters from the Professor Layton series will let visitors step into a British phone booth and sample the upcoming Professor Layton and the Unwound Future. Combined total puzzle scores for guys will be pitted against ladies' scores as similar events are held in Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia.

... Hey, wait a minute! A puzzle-obsessed genius is trapping people in phone booths until they complete a battle of wits? Hell, toss in a couple of rotating blades and Cary Elwes and we've got a Saw movie on our hands.

Solve Layton's puzzles or die in a Bay area phone booth originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Find Professor Layton and the Lost Future in Europe on October 22

JC Fletcher — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Nintendo announced the European release date for Professor Layton and the Unwound Future, the third game in the Professor Layton series today: October 22 (with the slightly altered title Professor Layton and the Lost Future).

If you're in Europe and want to play it sooner, you can either follow in the Professor's footsteps and use a time machine ... or just order a copy from the US, where it'll be available September 12. Of course, European Layton fans have the advantage of being able to watch the Professor Layton movie to help pass the time, so maybe the wait won't be so awful.

Find Professor Layton and the Lost Future in Europe on October 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva travel to the UK in style

JC Fletcher — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 16:40:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

It's confusing enough to have two upcoming Professor Layton games -- Unwound Future on DS and Mask of Miracle on 3DS. But there's actually a third Professor Layton title on the way! In the UK, on October 4, Manga Entertainment is releasing the Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva movie on DVD and Blu-Ray.

The film will be released in disc-only DVD and Blu-Ray editions, as well as a DVD collector's edition. If you really want to drop some money on the Layton movie, the DVD + Blu-Ray Combi Pack includes both the DVD and Blu-Ray discs, as well as the gorgeous collector's edition packaging and a book of storyboards.

If you're in the US, ordering from Amazon UK is as simple as signing in with your American account. That leaves only the issue of region-coding -- at the moment, there's no information about the coding on either version of the movie.

Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva travel to the UK in style originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton's future unwinds on September 12

JC Fletcher — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Professor Layton has figured out the secrets of time travel! Though his new game, Professor Layton and the Unwound Future, was originally set to be released in North America on September 20, the clever adventurer has figured out a way to move the release date back in time one week, to September 12.

Unwound Future begins with Professor Layton receiving a letter from his apprentice, Luke -- from ten years in the future. Layton and Luke must travel to the London of the future for urgent puzzle-related business. Apparently, sending someone through time is easier than some of the puzzles.

Gallery: Professor Layton and the Unwound Future (DS)

Professor Layton's future unwinds on September 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Level 5 trademarks 'Professor Layton and the Unwound Future'

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 21 May 2010 10:25:00 EST

According to Siliconera, Level 5 recently trademarked "Professor Layton and the Unwound Future," which seems to correspond with the Japanese name of the third puzzle-rich Professor Layton game, Professor Layton and the Final Time Travel. This is just ... this is so frustrating. We've told Layton over and over again: When you're tying up the future, you've got to use a square knot. These types of problems are best solved with prevention, sir.

Even if this particular title doesn't match up exactly with the Japanese original, the time travel theme seems to feature in both titles. Perhaps Layton will explore his own past, and we'll finally get to learn why he wears such a ridiculously tall hat. That's really the greatest puzzle of all, isn't it?

Level 5 trademarks 'Professor Layton and the Unwound Future' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton movie licensed for UK distribution

JC Fletcher — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 17:14:00 EST

Manga UK, the British arm of anime distributor Manga Entertainment, has announced that it's picked up the rights to Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva, the animated Professor Layton feature film released in Japan last December. We're currently checking with the US company to determine its plans, but at the very least we now know that there will be an officially translated (dubbed, in fact) version of the film on Blu-ray and DVD this September. Consider getting around the region coding ... a puzzle.

The movie features an original story by Level-5 CEO and Professor Layton creator Akihiro Hino, about mysterious kidnappings and a creepy opera house that apparently holds the secret to immortality. And puzzles.

Professor Layton movie licensed for UK distribution originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Level-5 considers opening US office

JC Fletcher — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 09:30:00 EST

During the same event in which Level-5 CEO Akihiro Hino teased new Wii and PS3 games, he also suggested that the company may be setting up operations in the US. According to our own imperfect translation of 4Gamer's summary of statements, "Mr. Hino, in order to release software overseas, spoke about a plan to establish a new company in America," describing his intention to expand the company's activities from its current home of Fukuoka to the world.

This new enterprise would be the second new office opened by the company for this purpose -- it recently established an overseas-focused office in Tokyo. Perhaps we'll see self-published Level-5 games soon. Perhaps that way we can get timely Professor Layton releases!

[Via Siliconera]

Level-5 considers opening US office originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Professor Layton takes a break, goes skating

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:30:00 EST

It's hard being Professor Layton. Always solving puzzles, talking with strange people and, of course, dealing with that snot-nosed kid, Luke. Even a gentleman like Professor Layton needs to relax now and again, and what better way to relax than a soothing session of figure skating? That's exactly what this Professor Layton does, though, admittedly, it's actually just some guy in a Layton costume. Still, it's oddly mesmerizing to watch. Check it out after the break and we're sure you'll agree.

One bit of advice for the Professor: Be careful out there or you might just end up in an unintentional sequel, Professor Layton and the Exorbitant Hospital Bill.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading Video: Professor Layton takes a break, goes skating

Video: Professor Layton takes a break, goes skating originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Level-5 opens new Tokyo office for 'overseas business'

JC Fletcher — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:45:00 EST

Professor Layton, White Knight Chronicles, and Dragon Quest IX developer Level-5 is expanding from its Fukuoka, Japan base, founding a new office in Tokyo focused on its ROID mobile gaming platform, overseas business, and "new enterprises." The move could portend worldwide release of the developer's mobile games, or even expansion of its publishing business.

In Japan, Level-5 publishes the Layton series, Inazuma Eleven, and other titles independently. If a localized Inazuma Eleven is indeed on the way, Level-5 could be looking to start up its publishing business outside of Japan with that title. Or, less spectacularly, we suppose the new office could be tasked with localization of games and dealing with Western publishers.

[Via Siliconera]

Level-5 opens new Tokyo office for 'overseas business' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton looking smart in figurine form

Ludwig Kietzmann — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST

If there's one enigma we can't wrap our heads around, it's the one involving the rather curious naming of Japanese figure manufacturer Revoltech Yamaguchi. Revoltech? It sounds like they should be making soggy clumps of hair -- not these rather dashing and highly positionable approximations of Professor Layton. As noted by GundamLunatics.info, the quick-witted puzzle buff features 14 points of articulation, a jacket made of a soft material and loads of apt accessories, including a puny pen and a tiny teacup.

Of course, every piece of merchandise has a price, and you'll look to spend 2,400 Yen (roughly $26) when he arrives on March 15. For more info and images, hit the source link.

[Via Examiner, Kotaku]

Professor Layton looking smart in figurine form originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute plays successfully in Japan

JC Fletcher — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST

[GAME Watch]

Japan's infatuation with quaint, puzzle-filled villages has yet to wane. The second Professor Layton trilogy has started off on a positive note, with Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute topping the Media Create sales charts. The latest in Level-5's adventure series sold 306,000 copies in its first week at retail.

The rest of the weekly bestsellers list is almost entirely dominated by Wii and DS games, like Tomodachi Collection, Wii Fit Plus and another debut, Momotaro Dentetsu 2010!, the latest Wii release of Hudson's Japan-only, train-themed board game series. The sole exception: Winning Eleven 2010, charting at number 7 with 20,000 copies sold. (The soccer sim's life-to-date sales of 312,000 isn't that far off from Layton's first week!) Additionally, Cave's region-free Xbox 360 shmup Mushihime-sama Futari just missed the top ten.

[Via Kotaku]

Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute plays successfully in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Level-5 reveals Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, coming to Japan next fall

JC Fletcher — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST

Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute is out in Japan tomorrow, so Level-5 decided it was an appropriate time to go ahead and announce the next DS game in the second Layton trilogy. At a Devil's Flute launch event, Level-5 president Akihiro Hino revealed the above artwork for Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask.

This fifth game has Layton and Luke investigating the mystery of the title artifact in Casino City, which seems to have been created by the wish-granting mask. According to a Famitsu report that leaked before the official reveal, there could be major changes to the familiar gameplay system.

Miracle Mask will be out in fall 2010, and may be followed by a second movie, Hino said. The company first has to solve the puzzle of how much money it will receive from the first one.

[Via Famitsu, Andriasang]

Level-5 reveals Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, coming to Japan next fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Figurine of Want

David Hinkle — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:50:00 EST

Gamers certainly aren't strangers to memorabilia, doubly so for figurines, but this Professor Layton statue from NCSX has one thing going for it those others don't: you can actually afford it. We're used to seeing those high-dollar Samus statues and Capcom's ridiculously-priced (and ridiculously nice!) Street Fighter series, so when we caught wind of this $30 Professor Layton companion, we knew we had to post it up. So ... yeah, that's what this is.

What? You were expecting more? OK, here's a riddle: What's 120 words, loves you and thinks you're the sexiest person on the planet? Head past the break for the answer!

[Via Go Nintendo]

Continue reading Professor Layton and the Figurine of Want

Professor Layton and the Figurine of Want originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nintendo Mall Experience tour heads cross-country next week

David Hinkle — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:45:00 EST

Nintendo must've had some luck with its Great Lakes and Wii Sports Resort tours recently, as the company has announced the Nintendo Mall Experience tour. Starting next week through December 20, The Big N will be stopping at shopping centers across the country to get some of its Wii and DS titles in the faces of holiday shoppers.

On the Wii side, Nintendo will show off its top three games for the holiday season: Wii Sports Resort, New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Wii Fit Plus. For the handheld crowd, Nintendo will be pushing the new Style Savvy, Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box and The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks. Head past the break for the full list of stops on Nintendo's Mall Experience tour.

Continue reading Nintendo Mall Experience tour heads cross-country next week

Nintendo Mall Experience tour heads cross-country next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the sinister graffiti

JC Fletcher — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:15:00 EST

We were going to comment on the creepy "sign of the witch" that Professor Layton, Remi and young Luke encounter in this screenshot of Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute -- and how it seems that this Layton game is going in an unusually spooky and dark direction -- but then we remembered that both of the Layton games out in North America contain some fairly scary supernatural-seeming content: mysterious murders, monsters, curses, and the like.

We tend to think of the Layton games as so pleasant and so light-hearted, but, really, there's often something a bit sinister in many of the puzzles Layton must solve. Grab a cup of tea and head to Famitsu for more totally spooky screens.

Professor Layton and the sinister graffiti originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Million-Selling Sequel

JC Fletcher — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:15:00 EST

It would appear that Nintendo made the right decision in finally getting around to releasing Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box worldwide, as the company was able to trade that box for one filled with cash money. The company released a supplement to its earnings report, listing the million-selling first-party Wii and DS games of its Q3 (April-September), and Diabolical Box made the list with 1.26 million units sold. The entirety of that 1.26 million comes from outside of Japan, since it wasn't a first-party game in Japan, and it was released in 2007.

The other new additions to the million-seller club on DS: Tomodachi Collection, the Mii communication game, and Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver, which mysteriously managed to rack up 10,000 overseas sales despite not having been released outside of Japan. Is Nintendo tracking import retailers differently somehow?

On Wii, Wii Sports Resort has reached 6.97 million units worldwide, and Wii Fit Plus has already sold 2.13 million, a nice complement to the 4.28 million that the first Wii Fit sold in the last quarter.

Gallery: Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box (DS)

Source (PDF)

Professor Layton and the Million-Selling Sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzling: No plans for Wii Professor Layton

Richard Mitchell — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:40:00 EST

Everything is improved with waggle. It's a fact. Scientifically proven. And yet, Level 5 CEO Akihiro Hino has still seen fit to crush everyone's hopes of a waggle-infused Professor Layton. Hino told Official Nintendo Magazine that the upcoming Professor Layton and the Last Time Travel will conclude the trilogy, though it will soon be followed by the first episode of a new trilogy, entitled Professor Layton and the Flute of Malevolent Destiny. That's wonderful, and we're sure handheld puzzle enthusiasts will be thrilled, but Hino notes -- probably followed by a cruel, derisive laugh -- that there are currently "no plans for a Wii release."

Frankly, we're shocked at the revelation, as a Wii release of Professor Layton seems like the mannerly, logical thing to do. We're sure the world-famous Hershel Layton would agree.

Puzzling: No plans for Wii Professor Layton originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FIFA 10 debuts with record UK sales lead, Layton maintains second

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:25:00 EST

FIFA 10 -- the Madden of Europa -- had the most successful "all formats" launch since Grand Theft Auto IV in the UK, according to Chart Track. First week sales of the footie fiesta grew by nearly 48 percent over its predecessor's opening week a year ago. This was the highest-selling launch of a FIFA game ever, with the Xbox 360 generating 48 percent of sales, PS3 46 percent, and the remaining formats making up six percent.

Professor Layton and Pandora's Box (the Diabolical Box in the States) held onto the number two spot from the week prior, while Halo 3: ODST sales dropped 75 percent to the third spot, after holding last week's crown.

Source -- FIFA 10 scores BIG (Chart Track)
Source -- All formats chart (Chart Track)

FIFA 10 debuts with record UK sales lead, Layton maintains second originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton is in Boston today ... somewhere

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST

It appears that Professor Layton is in Boston today, working the streets to promote his latest adventure, The Diabolical Box. Those who track down the professor will receive a "fun Nintendo gift," as well as entry into a draw for five Nintendo DSi systems. Check out the official rules for all the details.

The latest clue at 11AM EST states: "Professor Layton is wandering on a cobblestone promenade similar to the one in Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box and watching a street performer." That means the professor is very likely right outside of Quincy Market. If you get a lock on Layton, holla back. Also, send us pics! The professor will hop on a flight and be in Seattle tomorrow.

Professor Layton is in Boston today ... somewhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WB thinks Scribblenauts will have 'Layton appeal'

Justin McElroy — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 08:30:00 EST

Warner Bros. says it's counting on Scribblenauts to start a new puzzle franchise, getting a taste of the same success that a certain top-hatted DS puzzler has enjoyed. "What Scribblenauts offers is something akin to Nintendo's Professor Layton - an addictive and challenging game that has real mass-market appeal all wrapped up in a uniquely stylised package," said WB marketing manager Phil Lamb.

He seems to be making a logical argument until dropping this bon mot: "Many forum users are saying the game is the biggest incentive they've had to revisit their dormant DS in a long time." So ... umm ... did they not know Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box was out or what?

WB thinks Scribblenauts will have 'Layton appeal' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton and the Decent US Sales Debut

David Hinkle — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:43:00 EST

Despite being absent from the August NPD figures, Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box managed to be somewhat of a success in the US. Gamasutra obtained some data from NPD that shows the game sold 65,700 copies in the month of August, which isn't all that bad considering the game went on sale August 24.

On the flip side, the figure can also be seen as a failure for Nintendo, based on how much money the company sank into the marketing machine trying to get ladies interested. Regardless, we're hoping the game fares better in September, because we'd like to actually play the other Layton games.

Professor Layton and the Decent US Sales Debut originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Joyswag: Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box (and a real Diabolical Box) [update]

David Hinkle — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:15:00 EST

Update: The giveaway has come to a close. Keep an eye on your email to see if you won!

Now that we've finished reviewing Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box, it's high time we sent the game to one of you -- and that's where Joyswag comes in. If you want to get your hands on the game and an actual diabolical box, follow the directions below. Good luck!

Leave a comment telling us what you plan to store within the Diabolical Box
You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
Limit 1 entry per person per day
This entry period ends at 1:00PM ET on Monday, September 7
At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box on DS ($35 ARV)
For a list of complete rules, click here

Gallery: Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box (DS)

Joyswag: Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box (and a real Diabolical Box) [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Level-5's CEO on lessons learned from Professor Layton's first adventure

Xav de Matos — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST

In Level-5's homeland of Japan, the top-hat wearing sleuth Professor Layton is well past his originally planned trilogy, but North American gamers have only recently caught up to the second game in the franchise. According to Level-5 president and CEO Akihiro Hino, a combination of localizing the game's puzzles and images and giving each title enough room to breathe at retail are contributing factors to Layton's slow release schedule Stateside. "We want to let each title have time to perform on the market before releasing the next game," Hino told Wired.

As for the recently released sequel Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box, Hino estimates the game features "roughly double" the amount of data than the first. Not only is Layton's new tea-sipping adventure bigger, but it makes more sense contextually. "One lesson we learned from the first title is that some puzzles seemed irrelevant to the storyline," Hino said, noting the Professor's second outing actually works the puzzles into the game's story to give them a purpose. "For instance, you may have to solve a puzzle about a key in order to enter a locked chamber."

If Layton's adventure piques your interest, make sure to check out our review of Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box.

Level-5's CEO on lessons learned from Professor Layton's first adventure originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Professor Layton 4 includes unlockable Professor Layton RPG

JC Fletcher — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST

Most American gamers have yet to get their copies of Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box, and Level-5 has already released news that will make you yearn for the fourth game. At last night's LEVEL-5 VISION conference, the company announced that Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute will include a bonus game, Professor Layton and London Life.

The Brownie Brown-developed London Life is an RPG that, according to Level-5's Akihiro Hino, will last over 100 hours. It was originally announced for the ROID cell phone game service -- we have yet to learn whether it will still be released there in addition to DS. Devil's Flute will be out on November 26 in Japan.

[Image credit]

Gallery: Professor Layton and London Life (DS)

Professor Layton 4 includes unlockable Professor Layton RPG originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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