Boy, those devs at Level 5 sure has been busy, what with these new Professor Layton games coming out lately.
Last month saw the debut of Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy in the US, which marks the end of a two-trilogy run of games for the top hat wearing puzzle solver/archaeologist/crime fighter. Also, this month will see the long awaited release of Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney in the west – a spin off that fans of both series has been clamouring over since its Japanese announcement.
Although this is surely good news for Layton fans, it also marks quite a bittersweet moment – Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy was previously said to be the last game in the foreseeable future starring usual protagonist Hershel Layton. Many a debate was held over whether this would mean an end, or at least a long break, until we will be graced with a new Professor Layton title.
Not to worry though, Level 5 Boss Akihiro Hino has recently stated that they will definitely “continue on with the challenge of adding more unique titles to the Professor Layton series”, even if “Hershel Layton’s personal story has finished”.
Clues of carrying on in this fashion was hinted upon in last year’s mobile only release of Layton Brothers: Mystery Room in Japan, which starred the Professor’s Son and played nothing like it’s DS counterparts. Also, a blink and you’d miss it announcement of Layton 7 last year, which looks odd to say the least, suggests that Level 5 will be keeping good on their promise.
So there you have it. Although good ol’ Hershel won’t be making an appearance again anytime soon, the puzzle solving fans among you won’t have to look elsewhere for your fix – it doesn’t look like Level 5 has abandoned you just yet.