Professor Layton and the Curious Village review

Professor Layton and the Curious Village is the best value on this list and the cheapest cartridge we found, at $29.99 used at DKOldies. Nintendo's listing describes more than 135 puzzles, from river-crossing problems to matchstick arrangements, all solved on the touch screen. They were created by Akira Tago, whose puzzle book series has sold more than 12 million copies in Japan, according to the publisher's description. You play Professor Hershel Layton, called to the village of St. Mystere to look into a mysterious will, and the story unfolds through animated cartoon scenes. Hint Coins found around the village buy up to three hints per puzzle, and the touch screen doubles as a notepad. The difficulty rises gradually, which makes it a good pick for players new to puzzle games. The extra puzzles Nintendo offered by download depended on Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, which closed in 2014, so the cartridge now holds the full experience.

Who it is for

Puzzle fans and adults who want a story game they can play in short sessions.

Price

Used DS cartridge from $29.99 at DKOldies (regular price, before sales).

Original price: $29.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• More than 135 puzzles solved on the touch screen
• Puzzles created by Akira Tago, whose puzzle books sold more than 12 million copies in Japan
• Hint Coins buy up to three hints per puzzle
• Note-taking on the touch screen
• Story told through animated cartoon sequences

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Cheapest game on the list at $29.99 used
• Strength: Difficulty rises gradually, so beginners can ease in
• Strength: PEGI 7 rating suits families
• Weakness: Bonus puzzle downloads relied on Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, which ended in 2014
• Weakness: Little replay value once every puzzle is solved
• Weakness: Single player only

Key facts

• Publisher: Nintendo
• Developer: Level-5
• EU release: November 7, 2008
• Puzzles: More than 135
• Age rating: PEGI 7

Where it ranks

Professor Layton and the Curious Village is No. 3 in our Best Nintendo DS Games of All Time verdict.