Luigi's Mansion 2 HD: A Delightful But Flawed Remake

Strategic Insights -

Nintendo's ghost-busting puzzle game, Luigi's Mansion 2, was a delightful surprise sequel in 2013 when it was released for the Nintendo 3DS. The game's diorama-like mini-mansions and peepholes showcased the console's stereoscopic 3D effects, activated with a little slider at the side of the screen. Now, 11 years later, it's out on the Switch, but with significant changes - the 3D effect is no longer a thing, and Luigi's Mansion 3 exists, making it seem outdated. The remake has improved graphics, but the gameplay remains the same, chopping up the levels into mini-missions that interrupt the flow of the game.

Key Takeaways:

  • The game's design remains sound, with great puzzles and funny and clever ghost battles.
  • The attention to detail leads to a wealth of lovable moments, but the interruptions from Luigi's phone calls and the inability to play multiplayer on the same console are major drawbacks.
  • The game's graphics have been improved, with refreshed interiors and detailed environments, but it feels outdated compared to Luigi's Mansion 3.
  • The game's pacing is interrupted byrequent cuts back to E Gadd's lab, making it feel disjointed and less atmospheric.
  • Luigi's Mansion 3 offers a more immersive experience, with the ability to explore a haunted hotel without interruptions, all for the same price.

Statistics:

  • The game was released in 2013 for the Nintendo 3DS.
  • The 3D effect that the game was designed around is no longer a feature of the Switch.
  • The game's price has increased to £49.99, despite not being a new game.
  • Luigi's Mansion 2 HD has the same level design as the original 3DS release.
  • The game runs at the same frame rate as the original 3DS release.

Sources:

  • Keza MacDonald, "Luigi's Mansion 2 HD review: a delightful but flawed remake", The Guardian, cited 2023.