Layton Revived: Nintendo's Unexpected Intervention

Professor Layton's Return: A New Adventure Fueled by Nintendo

The renowned Professor Layton is back with a new adventure, and Nintendo played a pivotal role in making it happen. This article delves into LEVEL-5 CEO Akihiro Hino's comments regarding the long-awaited sequel.

A Decade-Long Hiatus Ends Thanks to Nintendo

After almost a decade, Professor Layton returns in Professor Layton and the New World of Steam. At Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2024, LEVEL-5 revealed that while they considered the series concluded with Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy, Nintendo ("Company ‘N’") strongly encouraged a new entry.

LEVEL-5 CEO Akihiro Hino stated (via AUTOMATON) that the series' conclusion felt "beautiful," but significant industry pressure, particularly from Nintendo, led to the development of the new game. Nintendo's influence is understandable given their close relationship with the franchise, which flourished on the Nintendo DS and 3DS. Nintendo published many Layton titles and considers the series a key success for those platforms. Hino emphasized the desire to deliver a new game of high quality, befitting modern consoles.

Professor Layton and the New World of Steam: A Glimpse into the Adventure

Set a year after Professor Layton and the Unwound Future, the game reunites Professor Layton and Luke Triton in Steam Bison, a vibrant American city powered by steam technology. Their new investigation involves Gunman King Joe, a legendary gunslinger.

The game maintains the series' tradition of challenging puzzles, this time enhanced by QuizKnock, a renowned puzzle-creation team. This collaboration is significant, especially following the mixed reception of Layton's Mystery Journey, which featured Layton's daughter.

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