Professor Layton & the Curious Village

$35, Nintendo DS

Teaches: logic, reading

CTR Rating: 92%

CTR Review

This one-player game mixes some clever logic puzzles and an adventure format. The game requires a lot of reading, and children can get frustrated at times, but the puzzles are addicting and very educational. Here's the story: In the curious village of St. Mystere, a wealthy baron passes away. His will states that a treasure is hidden someplace inside the village, and the baron's family calls upon Professor Layton (an archaeologist and puzzle expert) to help them find it. When Professor Layton (you) arrives at the village, another family member mysteriously dies. Now you have two mysteries to solve. As Professor Layton, you solve brain twisters, riddles, and logic and sliding puzzles to progress through the mystery and find the treasure. Nintendo states that for a limited time, new puzzles will be available weekly for download via Nintendo Wi-Fi connection for extended replay value. Developed by Level 5 for Nintendo. See also Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box.