Layton Legacy Revived: Nintendo Rescues Puzzle Professor

Professor Layton is back! A new adventure is on the horizon, and Nintendo played a key role in making it happen. Discover the story behind the long-awaited sequel.

Professor Layton's Puzzle-Solving Continues

Nintendo's Influence on the Sequel

After a nearly decade-long absence, Professor Layton returns in Professor Layton and the New World of Steam. LEVEL-5, the game's developer, credits Nintendo with the revival. At Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2024, LEVEL-5 CEO Akihiro Hino revealed that while the team considered Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy a fitting conclusion, Nintendo encouraged them to revisit the steampunk world.

Hino stated (via AUTOMATON) that the series was concluded, but "Company ‘N’" (clearly Nintendo) strongly advocated for a new game. This support is understandable, considering the franchise's success on Nintendo DS and 3DS systems. Nintendo published many Layton titles and values the series as a DS highlight.

Hino explained that the positive feedback from Nintendo prompted the decision to create a new game that would meet the quality standards of modern consoles.

Professor Layton and the New World of Steam: A New Mystery

Set a year after Professor Layton and the Unwound Future, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam reunites Professor Layton and Luke Triton in Steam Bison, a vibrant American city powered by steam technology. They'll face a new challenge involving Gunman King Joe, a legendary gunslinger.

The game retains its signature challenging puzzles, this time enhanced by QuizKnock, a renowned puzzle design team. This collaboration aims to address the mixed reception of Layton's Mystery Journey, which deviated from the core series formula.

Learn more about the gameplay and story in our related article!