The professor, the puzzles, the plot twists...
'Brain Training with a plot' seems to be the enticing high-concept pitch behind this delightful DS puzzler. And indeed it's an idea Nintendo seems keen to promote, having taken over publishing duties for the game's European launch, some nine months after Professor Layton And The Curious Village arrived in the US.
In truth, that description is a bit of a misnomer, because Professor Layton And The Curious Village is all about logic puzzles; generally you'll be thinking laterally rather than mathematically. Indeed, if you find yourself scribbling down sums, you'll usually be on the wrong track, the game almost certainly having bamboozled you with its cleverly-worded brainteasers.
An illogical legacy
The plot to Professor Layton And The Curious Village circles around the eponymous prof and his young apprentice, Luke, whose presence is never really adequately explained. The duo must attempt to solve the mystery behind an inheritance dispute, sparked when the village's Baron Reinhold dies, leaving only a tantalising riddle in his wake.
The game pokes fun at itself, explaining away seemingly irrational behaviour with a rug-pull near the end of the plot that will leave most players reeling.
Initially, as Layton explores the hamlet of St. Mystere, it seems ludicrous that every character requires you to solve a puzzle before assisting you on your quest, but the game pokes fun at itself for doing this, and then explains away this seemingly irrational behaviour with a rug-pull near the end of the plot that will leave most players reeling. It's worth bumbling your way through Professor Layton And The Curious Village just for that.
But the major plot twist is not the only high spot in a story which perfectly accentuates the meat of the game - i.e. the puzzles - without ever becoming too intrusive. Animated cutscenes impress, but never outstay their welcome. The script is witty and succinct, and compels you to keep playing just to find out what enigma will come next.
Enigma variations
Characters are likeable and memorable - particularly the professor, a charismatic chap with a hint of Sherlock Holmes about him. Even Luke's hilariously misguided Cockney accent just seems all the more charming in these surroundings, and the delightful art style adds a European flavour despite the game's Japanese anime origins. The music may be more of an acquired taste - the main accordion-based themes to Professor Layton And The Curious Village are catchy but admittedly a little repetitive.
Even if you don't take to the charming (and surprisingly dark) story, the puzzles will keep you enthralled.
Even if you don't take to the charming (and surprisingly dark) story, the puzzles littering Professor Layton And The Curious Village will keep you enthralled. While a couple are repeated twice or more before you reach the end, most are unique, and the majority will have you chewing your stylus for a while before you come up with an answer. Brilliantly, you're often allowed to scribble down your workings on the touchscreen, while a subtle and useful hints system provides assistance - at the cost of hint coins you pick up during your travels.
Endless mystery
Moreover, there are a number of little bonus asides that will have you seeking out the riddles that aren't related to the plot. There's a jigsaw to complete, a mechanical dog to piece together, and furniture which can liven up Layton and Luke's rooms at the St. Mystere Inn. And these aren't just for show, either - completing them unlocks further puzzles. Fans of Professor Layton And The Curious Village will also be able to download special weekly riddles via Wi-Fi.
With over 130 puzzles to solve, Professor Layton And The Curious Village will likely spend a fair bit of time in your DS cart slot. Just keep your fingers crossed that we get the two sequels - already out in Japan - a little quicker next time.
GAME's Verdict
- Delightful cartoon presentation.
- Fiendish puzzles are many and varied.
- Charming story with several twists.
- Occasional sticking points.
- The water pitcher riddles are irritating.
- An inevitable long wait for the sequel!
Review by: Keith 'The Professor' Stuart
Version Tested: DS
Review Published: 07.11.07