There's something quite charming to the original Professor Layton, knowing it's an adaptation of a long-running series of Japanese brain teasers first and foremost, and all the stuff that would come to define the series (the characters, the adventure mystery plots full of over-the-top moments, etc) exists here purely as a framing device. At the same time, there was such confidence in the game that not only were sequels already in the works, but code functionality was implemented that would only be paid off when the sequel rolled around, like a mini Stop 'n' Swop. None of this confidence feels misplaced; Atama no Taisou makes for a great template, and the characters and world are immediately charming, the latter's bombast offset by Layton's quiet modesty.

This isn't a fair-play mystery, to be sure, which seems a contrast to the general nature of the puzzles being solvable with careful critical thinking. But maybe that's all right? Luke's there to play the Watson, so the player isn't alone when things start going off the wall in the endgame.