Tag: Professor Layton

Help Katrielle Solve Puzzles Worldwide in ‘Layton’s Mystery Journey: Real World Puzzle Solving’

by Natalie Kipper

Hot off the heels Level-5’s event at this year’s E3 celebrating their upcoming game Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaires’ Conspiracy, comes another special promotion. This one, titled “Layton’s Mystery Journey: Real World Puzzles,” will span 10 countries, include 50 puzzles, and run for three months.

The event started yesterday. To join in on the fun, head over to the event’s page. And while you aren’t required to download or log-in to any account to take part, if you choose to link your Google account, you unlock additional options, like the ability to save your notes or transfer bonus items to the game once it launches.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFd2agQF4LU

The first puzzle available on the site is a musical one sung by none other than Pikotaro of “Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen” fame. If you need help, just link your Twitter account and you can see hints from players worldwide, translated thankfully. Two additional puzzles are also live. There is a countdown for each puzzle as they are added to the list.

 

While some puzzles are just like the ones from previous games, others, like tomorrow’s, will be tied to a location in the real world. How that will play out for people who don’t live near the specified place remains to be seen. I would imagine some form of teamwork is involved but that is purely a guess.

Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaires’ Conspiracy launches on mobile devices July 20 and heads to the Nintendo 3DS later this Fall. You can learn more at the game’s official site.

E3 2017: Discussing The Future Of The ‘Layton’ Series

by Natalie Kipper

On June 14, smack dab in the middle of E3 2017, I met with two members of Level-5 Inc. to discuss their latest project Layton’s Mystery Journey. The title will release on the Nintendo 3DS as well as mobile devices, both iOS and Android.

The choice to expand to the mobile platform stemmed from a desire to reach a broader audience, to create new fans while not alienating older ones. The mobile version will not follow the free-to-play model. It will have an as-yet unannounced price tag but that first purchase is all that is required to play the entirety of the game. They do plan to have in-app purchases of some variety but these are completely not required to enjoy the game (the 3DS version will not have in-app purchases). The mobile game can be played without wifi but you may want to log on each day to get the free Daily Puzzle downloads. Even without these downloads, Layton’s Mystery Journey contains over 500 hundred puzzles, more than any other title in the series.

For both the mobile and 3DS versions, the gameplay mostly remains the same at the core. However, while Professor Layton’s mysteries seemed to become grander and grander in scale with each installment, his daughter Katrielle’s game is much smaller in focus. She is just starting to establish herself as a detective and as such the tone is more light and even humorous at times. The color palette reflects this by including brighter tones. There are 12 chapters in the game’s story but there is the possibility for post-release DLC for both versions.

Another slight difference is that in the previous Layton games, the puzzles were created by the late Akira Tago. Layton’s Mystery Journey will feature puzzles from the mind of Iwanami Kuniaki. His background is in Mathematics compared to Tago’s in Linguistics. It should be interesting to see how this effects the feel of the puzzles.

Level-5 is all about portability with their games, which is why the move to mobile felt so natural. Their games are intended to be played on a handheld system. As wonderful as this is for mobile and 3DS players, owners of the Nintendo Switch are left out in the cold. The truth is Level-5 loves the Switch but the challenge with developing for it lies with the console’s hybrid nature. Yes, the Switch can be played as a handheld device (which is how Level-5 wants their games to be played) but as soon as you pop that Switch into its dock and the game goes onto the TV screen, that is where the problem arises. It is a shame but I am happy to be able to play Level-5’s beautiful games at all. Here’s hoping that they find a solution to this particular puzzle soon.

The message to new fans is that the game is “open to anyone at any age of any gender.” The game is great to pick-up and play and not intimidating, full of enjoyable moments from Katrielle’s journey.

As for extra incentives for past fans to play (if even need one), it was mentioned that there will homages to previous titles found in Layton’s Mystery Journey. They were mum on returning characters, though.

Because the mobile game launches first, Level-5 anticipates that portions of the story will be spoiled prior to the 3DS release. They aren’t concerned, however, as the main draw of the game is solving the puzzles. So even if the gamer knows the full extent of the plot going in, there is still incentive to play.

Layton’s Mystery Journey launche on mobile worldwide on July 20, 2017. It will launch on the Nintendo 3DS on July 20, 2017, in Japan, and in Autumn 2017 for the rest of the world.

E3 2017: We Teased Our Brains And Tasted Tea At The Layton Cafe

by Josh Jackson

Clever ladies and gentlemen were tasked with solving puzzles found on the Professor Layton social media pages to find the Layton Cafe leading up to E3. As the clues came together and the location became known, clever puzzle masters were able to track down the restaurant, which was transformed into a celebration of all things Layton to celebrate the series’ tenth anniversary. Luckily for people like me who are terrible at any form of thinking, it happened to be right in the middle of one of the busiest locations in downtown LA.

Once inside, we were greeted with photo ops with the Professor and the new protagonist in town, Katrielle Layton, more free pastries than we could ever hope to eat, and a menu full of entrees with a gentlemanly twist. Of course, we couldn’t call this a Layton Cafe without plenty of puzzles to be solved, which there was no shortage of thanks to brain teasing toys and our table mats serving as riddles. Yes, just like the games, nearly every object in the cafe was just waiting to be turned into a mystery to solve. In the very likely event that I were to crash and burn, we were all gifted with a Picarat to celebrate ten years of the Professor’s adventures.

Check out our photo gallery below, showing off the transformed Tom’s Urban, complete with some of the best pastries I’ve ever had. If you’re like us and can’t wait to dive into a new Layton adventure after a four year haitus, make sure to make room for Kat when Layton Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaire’s Conspiracy, (formerly Lady Layton,) comes to iOS and Android platforms on July 20, with the 3DS version following about a month afterwards.

Level-5 Confirms ‘Lady Layton’ Will Come Stateside In 2017

by Josh Jackson

Video games and comic books share so many qualities, one of which being that the end is never *THE END*. When Professor Layton wrapped up his adventures with Unwound Future, then delivered what was said to be his final game when the prequel trilogy came to a close with 2014’s Azran Legacy, it seemed like that would be the last we would see of the top hat professor. It turns out that this was only half true. While the ultimate gentleman may be out of the spotlight, his daughter has arrived to take up the puzzle solving mantle, and we’ll be playing it in the West much sooner than expected.

Announcing Lady Layton: The Millionaire Araidone’s Conspiracy, the debut trailer introduces us to Katrielle, a dectective who is exploring London in search of her father. With her talking dog at her side, it’s clear that Kat’s adventure will be just as offbeat, charming and quirky as the previous games in the series, all on display thanks to the game’s animated cutscenes. The lengthy trailer gives us plenty to dig into, but we still have so many questions. What happened to Luke and Emmy? What about Layton’s son that was featured in the professor’s mobile spin-off? Considering Luke had the special ability to talk to animals in the past, what’s the deal with the animals actually talking? Where’s Professor Layton? And most importantly, considering how Hershel’s true love ended in tragedy, who was he able to find happiness with again in order to have a family in the first place?

Luckily, we won’t have to wait too long to find out. Check out the trailer for yourself and speculate with us, and make sure to dust off your thinking cap, since we’ll have a whole lot of puzzles to solve once next year hits.

Lady Layton is set for a 3DS, iOS and Android release.

Professor Layton Puzzle Master Passes Away At 90

by Matt Rodriguez

Akira Tago, “puzzle master” of the Professor Layton series has passed away due to interstitial pneumonia on March 6, at the age of 90.  He is credited of being the “puzzle master” in every Layton game, as well as responsible for the best-selling quiz book, “Atama no Taiso” (Brain Exercises in 1966).  According to Eurogamer in 2014, the entire Professor Layton series is inspired by Tago’s work.

Professor Layton is the beloved Nintendo exclusive puzzle franchise developed by Level-5, that follows a professor from London into some of the most daring mysteries of his world.  The mysteries are solved in Sherlock fashion, using point and click mechanics to unveil secrets, and frequently solving puzzles for villagers, major characters, and even boss battles.  There was even a rare crossover game called “Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright” pitting Level-5’s and Capcom’s iconic puzzle characters into a clash of wit with each other.

Our hats, are off to you, Akira Tago!  You were a true gentleman in every sense of the word, and we know that Professor Layton won’t be the same without you.  Rest in Peace.

Source: IGN

 

Next ‘Professor Layton’, ‘Fantasy Life’ Titles Headed To Smartphones

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: This, I did not expect.

Celebrated developer Level-5 has revealed the next games in the Professor Layton and Fantasy Life franchises… and they’re headed to smartphones.

The announcement was made during last night’s Level-5 Vision 2015 event, with both games set to launch on Japanese devices this Summer. As noted by Siliconera, Fantasy Life 2 “is similar to the previous title, as it features 12 Lifes, and a new “Village” feature, where you’ll collect villagers. The game has more of a Sim vibe going on, where you’ll build the city, and will have a larger room to build this time.”

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Little information was revealed about Layton 7, aside from its Summer release window. The game sounds vastly different from previous Layton titles, and “involves cards and fortunetelling, where players will have to use their wits and skills to figure out who the “Vampire” is.”

A 3DS version was not mentioned for either title.

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Are you interested in these new titles? Or do they sound too different from the franchises that we already know and love? Sound out below!

SDCC 2014: Hands-On With ‘Professor Layton VS. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney’

by Josh Jackson

Literally years have passed since the initial announcement for Professor Layton VS. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney, one of the most unexpected crossovers in recent memory. After tons of speculation and a fear that the title might never get localized, those thoughts were put to rest when an official announcement was made confirming its impending release earlier this year. Now, we find ourselves about a month away from being able to play it for ourselves, but we got a small taste of what’s to come, courtesy of the Nintendo Lounge at San Diego Comic Con.

Divided into two sections, the game features both Professor Layton‘s trademark puzzles and Phoenix Wright‘s trial sections. On Layton’s side of the equation, his game play is essentially identical to his native titles, leading him and his assistant, Luke, to examine environments via the touch screen for hint coins and puzzles. Ranging from logic tests, math based scenarios, mazes, and many other challenges in between, a certain amount of puzzles need to be completed before progress can be made. While these challenges can range from insultingly easy to frustratingly difficult, the demo was kept on the simpler side of things, allowing progression to flow smoothly.

E3 2014: ‘Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney’ Is Ready To Deliver Its Own Brand Of Truth!

by Josh Jackson

It’s been over three years since one little trailer brought the gaming community to tears, collapsing in sheer joy over the thought that the impossible was now possible. That trailer would bring two worlds together, more significant than anything that was going on in our collective lives at that moment. This trailer… was Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney, a dream team of crime solving, mystery seeking, puzzle loving juggernauts that sent both fan bases into states of shock.

Then time passed… the game released in Japan without a whisper as to when, or even IF the game would be localized anywhere else. It wasn’t until a few months ago that a U.S. release was confirmed during one of the Nintendo Direct presentations, but it wasn’t until E3 that we FINALLY, have our own full fledged release trailer. Spoiler alert: it’s all kinds of awesome.

Taking place in a fantasy world formed by the pages of a magical book, Layton, Phoenix, and their assistants, Luke and Maya, are tasked with solving the mystery of the witch hunts. The trailer shows off tons of animated footage from the game in action. This comes with the territory for Layton fans, but the snippets of footage in Dual Destinies were never at this level of detail, even though the voiceovers are a little iffy for the Ace Attorney crew. Maybe it’ll be easier to get used to once we put more time into it?

Combining game play from both series, players will solve puzzles, seek out hint coins and solve mysteries with Layton, while Phoenix is shown battling witnesses and prosecutors in court as he proves his client innocent during the witch trials. Even the judge looks just like his modern day counterpart! Ah, some things never change.

Even though the game has been completed for awhile, we only have to wait a few more months before we can play the title ourselves and safely tread the Internet without fear of spoilers once again. Check out the trailer and tell us how excited you are about this team up finally finding its way to us on August 29th.

Geekscape Games Reviews: ‘Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy’

by Josh Jackson

If you would have told me six years ago that a game about a puzzle loving professor who solves mysteries through a variety of brain teasers would become one of the most popular franchises on a system with as much competition as the Nintendo DS, I… probably wouldn’t have doubted it. After all, games like Brain Age were huge at the time. Still, it’s hard to believe that a game of this nature would have such staying power with a loyal fanbase, but that’s exactly what the Professor Layton franchise has earned. Now that we’re on game six, developer Level-5 has decided that it’s time for Layton to hang up has hat, but not before his final adventure, Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy. While the finale brings a fitting end to the prequel trilogy with hundreds of puzzles in tow, it’s not hard to see why the top hat gentleman didn’t want to overstay his welcome.

Azran Legacy picks up where the previous game, Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, left off. Following Layton, his apprentice, Luke, and his assistant, Emmy, the group is contacted by Professor Sycamore, a fellow archeologist who has discovered a living mummy. The mystery surrounding this find may be the key to unlocking the secrets to an ancient civilization that was advanced beyond its years, but after an evil organization tries to claim this discovery for itself, it becomes a race that will take them around the world to unearth the secrets of the Azran people.

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If you’ve never played a Layton game, (and if you haven’t, you REALLY should, starting with Last Spectre since it’s the start of the current trilogy), the idea is that players will guide Layton and his friends through a variety of prerendered maps in a point and click style of game play. Examining and tapping the environments on the touch screen will lead to NPC conversations, new areas, hint coins that are used to purchase clues when you’re stuck, and of course, puzzles. In these titles, puzzles can consist of math, measuring, logic or pattern based challenges amongst others. Solving them awards a certain amount of Picarats depending on its difficulty, which are like a score that will earn some post game goodies depending on how high the count is. Naturally, you can’t score high if you’re terrible at puzzle solving, which is why the score goes down each time you get an answer wrong, so you’ll have to be careful.

While progression in terms of puzzle solving is mostly open ended, key points in the story require you to have a certain amount of puzzles solved before you can advance, so mopping up as many as you can solve is a big priority. It helps that even after all these years, solving a puzzle you’re unsure of is a surprisingly rewarding experience, so why wouldn’t you want to? Lastly, certain puzzles unlock items for additional mini games that are found throughout the story, which are great when you want to take a break from the standard fare. For a puzzle game, this series has always had plenty of content, and Azran Legacy is no different.

In terms of the story, Azran Legacy is a bit of a departure from its predecessors. For the most part, the first five games stuck to one locale for the crew to thoroughly explore. In this game however, the environments are divided into multiple smaller sections, each with their own mystery to solve on the way to the bigger prize. The highlight of my playthrough was meeting all of the quirky characters, solving the mysteries of each land and reaching their satisfying conclusions.

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The only drawback from these splintered sections is that their brief run times keep you from getting attached to these stories compared to the full experiences of the previous games, and it’s unfortunate that this problem spreads to the overall narrative. Considering that the game serves as the big payoff for the prequel trilogy, we spend so much time with sub plots that the climax of the story ends up feeling rushed and sloppy. Don’t worry, this is a spoiler free zone, so I won’t go into details, but I will say that some moments that should be shocking are cheapened because twist after twist hits you within the last two hours. It feel s like when a TV show is going to be cancelled, so the writers tie as many loose ends up as possible within two episodes. Layton’s final adventure deserves better, but sadly, that’s not what we got.

Story aside, as a huge fan of the franchise, I can see why the developers decided it was time to let go. It’s true that most of the puzzles are still expertly crafted, but the novelty of being “reminded” of puzzles by examining a water jar while the world around you is falling apart has largely faded. Six games in, and its formula has started to feel very paint by numbers. Now, that’s no fault of the game itself, but is a byproduct of being the sixth game in a series that can’t innovate too much by the nature of its premise. Even the mandatory story puzzles, (and most of the optional ones), feel much easier than in previous games, taking away some of the challenge we’ve come to expect. It’s hard to say whether or not this is because they were made intentionally easier or if I’m just used to the game after so many hours spent playing them, but it’s hard to argue against the former considering many of the puzzles don’t let you submit wrong answers. I always considered the story and puzzles to be the highlights of the Layton experience, so with those areas on the decline, I didn’t walk away from this one as happy as I have with its previous entries.

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Thankfully, when this game excels, it does so in a big way. The music is still top notch, with old tunes being brought back to accompany plenty of new, charming tracks which continue the trend of catchy audio for the series. Bringing back the 3D models from Miracle Mask, each of the animations are fluid and full of character, not to mention that the game features some of the most eye popping use of the gyroscopic 3D I’ve seen yet. As always, the animated cutscenes are fun to watch, and serve as a well-deserved reward for reaching important plot points.

Overall, the legacy Professor Layton leaves behind is as legendary as the mystery he solves, with Azran Legacy being a fitting, yet flawed finale for one of the most popular handheld franchises of the last decade. Sure, the formula was getting tired and the game’s finale doesn’t pack the punch that a final game should, but that shouldn’t take too much away from the fact that fans of the franchise cannot miss our favorite gentleman’s farewell. With a variety of fun areas to explore, a fantastic soundtrack that continues the series trend, over two dozen hours of content to uncover, free downloadable puzzles every day on top of the 150 in game teasers, and mini games to break up the action, you’ll be forced to forgive the areas where Azran falters. While I’m sad to see Layton go, I’m satisfied to know that Level-5 knew when the time was right to say goodbye. Now, bring on Professor Layton vs. Ace Attorney!

The Positives and Negatives:

+ The map variety keeps the environments charming and fresh.

+ Beautiful animations and fantastic use of the 3D make the game a visual treat.

+ The soundtrack is as great as you would expect from a Layton game.

+ More content than you’ll know what to do with, including hundreds of puzzles and mini games.

– The game play formula has worn itself out, with few ideas being introduced.

– The climax of the story is rushed, giving players no time to let major revelations sink in.

– The multiple maps may have divided the story too thin, never allowing us time to grow attached to the characters as much as its predecessors.

Final Score: 3.5/5

Nintendo Direct Recap: 2-13-2014 Edition

by Josh Jackson

As usual, another Nintendo Direct has come and gone and there is a TON of new information to sift through. But don’t worry, we scrutinized the announcements so you don’t have to! Read on to discover all of the Nintendo themed goodness coming to us over the next few months.

– The presentation started in a big way, with the reveal of Little Mac for Super Smash Bros. Click here for all of the details, speculation, screenshots and a sweet reveal trailer.

– Mario Golf World Tour missed its original 2013 release during the Year of Luigi, but it looks like the extra time was put to good use. A plethora of new features were shown off, including Mii support, as well as a solid release date of May 2nd.

– Kirby Triple Deluxe will give each copy ability a variety of attacks. While the game still promises to be easy to pick up and play, hidden sun stones and retro keychains promise to provide a good challenge for series veterans. Streetpass support allows players to send each other items, including keychains if they are also playing the game when passed. The best news? Kirby is right around the corner, also launching on May 2nd.

– Yoshi’s New Island acts mostly the same as its predecessors, where Yoshi’s goal is to reach the end of each stage while keeping Baby Mario safe. Doing so is made easier thanks to power ups like the jackhammer, submarine and super forms, (because it wouldn’t be a New game without a super form.) Yoshi’s pegasus wings will also make an appearance if you suck at the game.

– Steel Diver: Sub Wars was simultaneously announced and released for North America on the eShop. This free to play take on the First Person Shooter genre combines the underwater gameplay of Steel Diver and puts you in the driver’s seat. The free version has two single player missions, two submarines and the full online mode while $9.99 will get you the full package. I’ve been playing it since it popped up and it’s deceptively addictive. Keep an eye out for an in depth report!

– Inazuma Eleven, the popular soccer RPG from Level 5 that has never been released in North America… Has been released in North America! Also available now, $19.99 will get you the first game in the series, while the eShop is also carrying three episodes of the anime for free! You can find out more about both Steel Diver: Sub Wars and Inazuma Eleven in our in depth write up here.

– Rusty’s Real Deal Baseball is a baseball themed mini game collection that lets players haggle in game to lower the price of real life add on purchases. It’s an interesting concept that we covered in detail here.

– Pokemon Battle Trozei brings back one of the lesser talked about Pokemon spinoffs. The first game was a puzzle title that was put out to seemingly ease the pain of waiting for a full fledged Pokemon DS title, but was addictive in its own right. This new game will feature all of the current 718 Pokemon as well as new game play “battle” mechanics to keep things interesting. We’ll have a new way to catch em all when Trozei hits the eShop in March.

– One final trailer for Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy was shown, which will serve as the last game in the popular franchise. Streetpass functionality will allow would-be puzzle solvers to transfer hidden items to each other’s games. It’ll be sad to see the Professor go, but I’m excited to play his final adventure when February 28th comes along.

– Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate has finally received a release date! Kind of! After months of silence, Nintendo touched on the game, revealing that the game is slated for an early 2015 launch.

– Weapon Shop de Omasse is the last game in the Guild01 series in Japan, which is a collaboration between famed developers at Level-5 and Grasshopper Manufacturer. Part RPG, part rhythm game, part shop simulator, players are tasked with running a weapon shop. Forging weapons with the timing of accompanying music will make them stronger, which will aid your town’s warriors as they run off into battle. The title is aiming for a February 20th release at $7.99.

– A variety of indie games were given the spotlight, including Treasurenauts, Moon Chronicles, Shovel Knight, 1001 Spikes, the recently released Retro City Rampage and Child of Light. I got to play many of these at Indiecade, and all of them were impressive, especially Shovel Knight and 1001 Spikes. Of course, Retro City Rampage has been out on other platforms for awhile, but if you missed out on it before, there’s no reason not to pick up this definitive version.

– After over a year of waiting, the Game Boy Advance Virtual Console is finally coming to the Wii U. Launching with Yoshi’s Island: Super Mario Advance 3, Mario and Luigi: Superstar Saga and Metroid Fusion will be the first games released with more coming out every month. But why not on the 3DS? Get our thoughts on the subject here.

– Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze got one last trailer before its release next week. Solid, creative level design, silhouette stages and huge bosses were put on display, which is to be expected after the excellent Donkey Kong Country Returns. Check out the trailer and get ready for its February 21st release.

– It was just a few months ago that NES Remix stealth released on the Wii U eShop, but NES Remix 2 is already on its way. Coming on April 25th, the downloadable title will feature remixed versions of late era NES games like Metroid, Zelda II, Super Mario Bros. 3 and Punch Out!!! Making the package even more attractive is a full version of Super Luigi Bros. which is based on the mini game from the first Remix. Considering Luigi is a pretty backwards guy, all of the stages will run from right to left. Of course, his signature high jump will also be included. This might be worth the purchase alone!

– Mario Kart 8 got an official release date AND a ton of new characters. Players will hit the track once again on May 30th, while sliding along the edge of that Spring time frame the presentation promised. Check out all the details in our dedicated article right over here.

– Finally! Some game play footage from Monolith Soft’s upcoming Wii U title. Codenamed X, watching it in motion makes it look a lot like Xenoblade, which anyone who’s played it can tell you is far from a bad thing. Release details are still quiet, but I trust that they’ll take all the time they need to make it into as much of a masterpiece as all of the other Xeno games have been.

– And lastly, we got a ton of new information on Bayonetta 2, including details on the story, a new playable character and some kick ass new abilities. Check out our impressions at this link!

And that about covers it! What are you most excited about? Little Mac, X footage, a Mario Kart release date and a ton of fresh new games… it’s safe to say that this presentation was a success. Check out the full video below and keep checking back with Geekscape as these games and more become available.

‘Steel Diver: Sub Wars’ and ‘Inazuma Eleven’ Get eShop Stealth Releases!

by Josh Jackson

At this point, it’s become almost expected for Nintendo to have some kind of stealth release during its Direct presentations. From NES Remix to the Animal Crossing Plaza, the surprises are usually pleasant and unexpected, but relatively small on the scale of importance.

That changed today, with the announcement that two full fledged, freshly announced games were released on the eShop. First, Steel Diver: Sub Wars, (which sadly has nothing to do with Subway vs Quiznos,) acts as the successor to the submarine themed 3DS launch title. Switching to a first person view, this underwater shooter seems to borrow many of the same designs and art style of its predecessor. Oh, and the pariscope stages are back. Yep. Those pariscope stages.

Secondly, Inazuma Eleven is the first game in the long running DS series that has never been released in North America until now. Developed by Level-5, the people behind such hit games as Dark Cloud, Professor Layton and Ni No Kuni, the series was popular enough to receive numerous sequels and spinoffs spanning the DS, Wii and 3DS. It’s not hard to see why Nintendo was reluctant to release it here, since its premise of a soccer JRPG doesn’t exactly scream sales over here, but here’s a perfect chance to vote with our wallets and say that we want more unique titles to hit our shores. Hey, it worked for Xenoblade!

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Steel Diver: Sub Wars is free to play, although this version will only include two submarines. If you like what you play, the full version can be purchased within the game for $9.99, (which is much nicer than the $40 price tag of the original.) Inazuma Eleven is going for $19.99, and according to its reviews from years past, it’s well worth the asking price.

Are you excited to give these a go? Let us know below, and keep an eye out for our full recap later today!

Nintendo Direct Highlights: 11/13/13 Edition

by Josh Jackson

Another edition of Nintendo Direct has come and gone, and as promised, we left with a ton of new details on numerous 3DS titles. From Zelda, to Layton and Mario’s latest party, handheld owners will have their hands full within the coming months. With that said, the Wii U got a few bones thrown at it as well! Without further ado, here are the highlights from this morning’s conference Be warned: some of the content below contains spoilers.

– The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds has a new trailer! If you weren’t hyped enough, new details about new characters like Irene the witch, (who is essentially used for fast travel,) and Seres, (essentially the game’s Zelda replacement,) were shown, as well as Zora Flippers, which allow Link to swim.

– Zelda Street Pass functionality was revealed and it sounds really awesome! Players will create their own Shadow Link, complete with an item loadout and a set amount of hearts. The stronger the Link, the higher the bounty, which will be awarded to others who can find the shadow on the map and take him down.

– Mario Party Island Tour is also coming on November 22nd and allows download play for all seven of the game’s boards! Street Pass was also detailed, letting players compete in mini games against up to 10 ghost Mii’s. If you’re more of a loner, a single player “Bowser’s Tower” will have us competing in 30 floors worth of games, each one getting progressively harder until the boss fights that take place once every five floors.

– Bravely Default features a wide variety of customization for the in game party, including abilities, jobs, spells and appearances. Some new mechanics include the Default System, a defensive stance that builds Brave Points that can be used to unleash powerful attacks when switched to the Brave System,  Sleep Points, which can be built up using a time stopping ability or while the system is in sleep mode, than can be exchanged for more powerful moves, and Street Pass, which brings other characters into battles to aid you, (if they’re not chosen to help rebuild your town.)

– Bravely Default is releasing on February 7th, complete with a collectors edition. This contains the game, a set of AR cards, a soundtrack and an art book. Pricing has yet to be announced.

– Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy will close out the second, (and presumably last,) Layton trilogy when it arrives on the 3DS on February 28th. It’ll be fun to see Layton, Luke an Emmy’s final adventure through, but I can’t say I’m ready to say goodbye to the professor. At least we have the Phoenix Wright crossover to look forward to!

– Nintendo Zone locations will be distributing the (formerly,) exclusive Best Buy Animal Crossing: New Leaf items throughout November, as well as a special item block for Super Mario 3D Land. Contents are unknown, but it might be worth checking out the next time you’re at a Starbucks.

– Possibly the biggest news of the day, a December system update will allow Wii U and 3DS currency to be combined. So if you have $5 burning a hole in your Wii U wallet, transfer it over to the 3DS! Because if this presentation has taught me anything, it’s that the 3DS has way more content to use it on.

– Miiverse support will also be added along with this update, so now you’ll be able to take your awkward screenshots and witty commentary with you, assuming you can access the Internet of course.

– Other updates include YouTube on the handheld and an upgraded YouTube app for Wii U, both of which will be available later this month.

– Finally, we shift to the Wii U. In addition to the two packs already released, Pikmin 3 will receive a third wave of downloadable content. Unlike the previous downloads, which were made up of remixed stages from the on disc story and mission content, this wave contains all new stages not found anywhere else in the game. Taking Olimar to stages like construction sites, the inside of homes, beaches and factories, the first Pikmin protagonist will be tasked with finding Louie on the map, who will then be playable, allowing them to take on multiple tasks at once.

Pikmin 3 DLC 3

– The DLC will be released on December 2nd and consist of eight total stages. These four treasure stages and four battle stages didn’t have a price tag attached to them, but one of each type will be free to all players who download the update for the content, both of which take place in the “Fortress of Festivity.”

– The Animal Crossing Plaza is getting a slew of updates! 50 Miiverse stamps are being added, so those who can’t draw to save their life, (like me,) can post decent pictures of the cast. Polls are also being introduced, letting the community vote on such important issues as, “who is the best secretary?” or, “who is the neighbor of the year?” Considering the game has only one secretary, I’m expecting a landslide. The update will go live later this evening.

– Future updates will include resident registration, so you can keep track of who is in your in game town, a function allowing Miiverse posts to be saved in the photo album and the ability to move and delete multiple photos at once. When they will be available is unknown, but I’d guess 2014 since that’s when the app is scheduled to go down.

– An indie game sizzle reel showed off a ton of content, including 1001 Spikes, Jett Rocket 2, the new Shantae and Retro City Rampage for the 3DS. You can check out the video showing off all of the indie game goodness below.

– And finally, we have 10 new things in Super Mario 3D World. From bonus modes to kart themed stages and 3D puzzles, it seems like the game will feature a ton of content we were never expecting, including one big reveal that I won’t post here. Watch the trailer below if you’re feeling adventurous, but trust me when I say it’s a great reason to get excited.

And… that’s about it? What news was the most exciting part for you all? I know I’m hyped about 3D World more than ever, but even games like Mario Party and Zelda, which I was planning on waiting on, sound hard to resist. But I’ve talked enough. Sound off and let us know what Nintendo content you’re most excited about leading into 2014!

Professor Layton’s Final Adventure Coming in 2014 with ‘Azran Legacy’

by Josh Jackson

It’s finally time to say goodbye for all of those puzzle solving gentlemen out there. Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy, the sixth and final game in the Layton series, will be coming to the States in 2014.

Closing out the prequel trilogy that started with Professor Layton and the Last Specter, expect to see Layton, Luke and Emmy return to put a stop to the mysterious Descole’s latest plot, but not before solving a ton of puzzles about water pitchers and trains along the way.

The series is known for its gorgeous animation, abundance of charm and challenging puzzles that string together memorable stories. Who would have thought a simple brain teaser would spawn six games and a movie? It’s been a great ride, but its time to brace ourselves for the final goodbye. You know… unless this game sells millions of copies. Even a gentleman can’t say no to too much money. Hey, I’m just saying… never say never.

Azran Legacy will hit the 3DS alongside Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney next year. As always, check back with Geekscape as the release gets closer.

‘Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney’ Coming in 2014

by Josh Jackson

If you were crazy enough to wake up at the crack of dawn today, you might have caught the latest Nintendo Direct presentation. The video mostly covered games that we knew were coming with one huge exception. After years of silence and months of doubt, it was finally confirmed that Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney will be hitting Western shores in 2014.

The top hat professor and the turnabout attorney were first shown to collaborate back in 2010, with its release in Japan following suit last year. Hype levels were through the roof, but a long bout of silence combined with Ace Attorney Investigations 2 staying in Japan and Ace Attorney 5 getting a digital only release, fans like myself were afraid that the additional popularity boost from the good professor might not have been enough. Thankfully, after much objection from the masses, today proved that this wasn’t the case, (pun very much intended.)

It’s safe to say that we’ll have all the investigating, puzzle solving and sharp dressed gentlemen we can handle in 2014. Keep an eye out for additional information on Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney, as well as details for the upcoming releases of Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney: Dual Destinies and the recently announced Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy as they become available.

Geekscape Mobile: ‘Layton Brothers Mystery Room’ Now On iOS!

by Derek Kraneveldt

This looks amazing.

Professor Layton / Ni No Kuni developer Level-5 has just launched a new iOS title. Layton Brothers Mystery Room is a new crime-solving mystery game starring none other than Professor Layton’s son, Alfendi Layton.

The game looks to mix elements of the Professor Layton series with those of Capcom’s Phoenix Wright franchise. I haven’t had an opportunity to play the game yet, but I’m genuinely looking forward to it: Layton Brothers Mystery Room was developed from the ground-up for iOS devices (well, after first being cancelled on the DS), and looks to be an absolute blast.

The game is free to download (here), and the Universal App covers iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. The first two cases are included with the download, and further episodes can be unlocked via in-app purchases. Watch the trailer for Layton Brothers Mystery Room below, and let us know what you think of the game!

Three New Level 5 Titles Hitting 3DS eShop Before Year End!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Who doesn’t love Level 5!? From the wonderful (but too often forgotten) Dark Cloud titles for the Playstation 2, to the wonderfully quirky Professor Layton series, and even 2006’s wonderful Dragon Quest VIII: the company has touched the hearts of gamers young and old alike, and certainly mine.

Earlier today we reported on the upcoming revamp to the 3DS eShop. There is lots of cool stuff coming, so you may have missed the fact that three of the upcoming games are Level 5 titles!

All three titles have been available in Japan for some time, but will be new to North America when they launch. All three of them sound freaking cool!

Here are the descriptions, straight from the press release:

ABOUT LIBERATION MAIDEN
LIBERATION MAIDEN is a full-scale 3D sci-fi shooter created by critically acclaimed developer Goichi Suda, better known as SUDA51, from Grasshopper Manufacture, creators of fan-favorites Lollipop Chainsaw, No More Heroes, Shadows of the Damned and many more.  Set 100 years in the future in  New Japan, LIBERATION MAIDEN puts players in the role of Shoko Ozora, piloting a humanoid robot called Kamui.  The game brings AAA production values to the downloadable market in an unprecedented collaboration of all-star creators in music, art, and design, including breathtaking animation by the acclaimed animation studio, bones.  More information on LIBERATION MAIDEN can be found online at http://level5ia.com/blackbox/liberation-maiden/.

ABOUT AERO PORTER
AERO PORTER combines puzzle elements with a simulation of airport operations. Designed by Seaman creator Yoot Saito, the player sorts color-coded luggage onto conveyor belts while avoiding mishaps and delays.  Players are also able to design and share their own planes with a wide range of colors and patterns.

ABOUT CRIMSON SHROUD
CRIMSON SHROUD was created by game designer, Yasumi Matsuno, whose previous works include industry cornerstones such as Final Fantasy Tactics, Vagrant Story, and Tactics Ogre.  CRIMSON SHROUD is a new RPG that reimagines the table top RPG, and puts the power of the dice in the player’s hands to determine their fates.

Looks like there are some pretty huge names attached to these titles (freaking Yasumi Matsuno!). Level 5 has also released a trailer for the upcoming releases. Check it out below and let us know which one you’re looking forward to the most!

US Release Dates Set for 3DS Professor Layton, Paper Mario and More!

by Jonathan

This morning, Nintendo issued a press release about their upcoming 3DS Fall releases. And included on the list are retail dates for two of the most anticipated titles: Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask on Oct. 28 and Paper Mario: Sticker Star two weeks later on Nov. 11. Both titles were part of the 3DS’ original 2011 E3 presentation (Miracle Mask was even playable) but fans have had to wait a long time for the eventual release date.

It feels good to finally have them. As has been proven time and time again, if it’s got the names Mario or Professor Layton in the title, it’s going to sell well to the Nintendo fanboys. I’m looking forward to seeing how a Layton title plays on the 3DS with the accelerometer, camera and other system capabilities. The news that there’ll be a new puzzle available every day for a year is reason to celebrate as well!

Here’s the entire Nintendo publishing lineup from the press release:

Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone! (Oct. 1) – Users of any artistic skill level can learn painting and drawing techniques that can be applied to real-life art projects, with optional, additional lessons available for purchase.* The game also lets users share and download certain game content via SpotPass.*

Crosswords Plus (Oct. 1) – More than 1,000 professionally designed crossword puzzles will challenge players at any skill level. They can also receive and share bonus puzzles via StreetPass or connect their Nintendo 3DS to the Internet to receive free additional puzzles via SpotPass.* The game also includes other game play modes such as Wordsearch, Anagrams and the new Word of the Day.

Sparkle Snapshots 3D (Oct. 18) – Launching exclusively in the Nintendo eShop*, this downloadable game is a fun photography application that lets you personalize your 2D photos by adding 3D layers of stickers, ribbons, pens and other effects. Users can then share creations wirelessly with friends or transfer them to an SD card and email them.

Skylanders Giants from Activision Publishing, Inc. (Oct. 21) – Fans can look forward to more than 20 new inter-action figures to collect, including Giants that are twice the size of regular Skylanders and new LightCore Skylanders that light up both in the game and in real life when they are placed on the Portal of Power.

Style Savvy: Trendsetters (Oct. 22) – Players can run their very own full-scale fashion shop and spark a fashion revolution by helping customers keep up with current trends, buying new clothes for their customizable store and sharing their creations with their friends online.

Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask (Oct. 28) – Experienced fans and newcomers to the Professor Layton series can solve dozens of fascinating puzzles as they work their way through a new mystery storyline. Players can even download one additional puzzle per day for 365 days, starting on game launch day, at no additional charge.*

Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! (Nov. 5) – Players can create their own creatures and use them to explore a planet that they customize. Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! contains new features not found in the original downloadable title, such as dungeons to explore, enhanced creating capabilities with more parts to choose from and new special powers that can be used to further personalize the creatures. The game also features Download Play, which allows players to share the creative experience with friends who do not have a copy of the game.

Paper Mario: Sticker Star (Nov. 11) – Nintendo’s classic Paper Mario franchise gets a fresh 3D look in its hand-held debut. Stickers are the backbone of Mario’s newest adventure in which players use stickers found in the game to not only win battles, but to solve puzzles as well.

Disney Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion from Disney Interactive (Nov. 18) – Inspired by the classic Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse, this game features new ways for Mickey Mouse to interact with a 3D game world using paint and paint thinner.