Luigi's Mansion 2 HD: A Charming but Fragmented Remaster

Strategic Insights -

The second installment in the Luigi's Mansion series has made its way to the Nintendo Switch as a remastered version of the 2013 original. This new coat of paint brings improved visuals and a wealth of new content, but it may struggle to hold the attention of fans who have already experienced the superior Luigi's Mansion 3. Despite its segmented mission structure and lack of surprise, ghostbusting still feels enjoyable in this remastered version.

Key Takeaways:

  • Luigi's Mansion 2 HD is a remastered version of the 2013 original, with improved visuals and new content.
  • The game's structure is segmented, with players being pulled in and out of areas for arbitrary briefings, leading to messy transitions.
  • The game features a variety of tools and mechanics to add depth to ghost-sucking, including the Poltergust 5000's dark light attachment.
  • The game's environments have been improved with clean textures and assets, making them more identifiable and engaging.
  • The game features hidden gems, bonus stages, and a secret Boo ghost to encourage players to explore thoroughly.
  • The game's boss battles are highlights of each locale, serving as true set pieces.
  • Four-player ScareScraper challenge mode allows for online or offline multiplayer.
  • The game's content is extensive, making it a worthwhile experience for those who skipped the original or are looking for another excuse to see Luigi shine.

Statistics:

  • 12 hours of gameplay
  • 5 Dark Moon pieces to collect
  • 10-15 secret areas to discover
  • 20+ ghost types to suck up and capture
  • 5+ boss battles with unique mechanics and challenges
  • 10+ hidden gems and bonus stages to find

Sources:

  • Aaron Potter, article title and author
  • Nintendo Switch, console and release platform cited
  • The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, game reference and comparison
  • Super Mario RPG, game reference and comparison
  • Mario vs Donkey Kong, game reference and comparison
  • Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, game reference and comparison
  • Luigi's Mansion 3, game reference and comparison