Just bought this the other day.  I didn't know what to expect, since I haven't researched the series at all.  I just knew the Japanese seemed to like it.  Well, now I can see why.

The art style is beautiful; the story is compelling and dark (though transparent at times); the humor scattered throughout is mature and subtle; the puzzles can sometimes take serious time to decipher (if you're like me and try your hardest to get them right in one shot); even the easier puzzles are still entertaining; there's plenty of exploration during chapters; and the Professor is so likeable that you really want to be his friend.

There is only one thing I would change in this game: I don't think being able to tackle puzzles you missed or failed should be as easy as it is.  I think the replay value would be thousands of times more if this aspect was removed.  I've only missed two puzzles so far, but it didn't even matter.

All-in-all, this game is perfectly suited for the DS.  I can't wait for sequels to come stateside!

That's Level 5 for you. They are a great developer.

Just finished the game last night.. only have one puzzle left.. puzzle 135 (the final slide puzzle) - The Royal Escape... more like the royal pain in the arse

I bought this on release day, and though it's a very different game, I like it as much as I liked Zack & Wiki. Though it's not P&C, they are both puzzle related.  

Do you think if it sells well Level 5 might release Professor Layton and Pandora's Box and Professor Layton and the Last Time Travel in NA? Isn't there a Christmas related PL game also, Professor Layton something something Holiday?

That's the cutest thing I have ever read in all of VG Chartz, LOLZ.

 i'm not sure about the third installation of the game, but in the USA manual it says to access the secret area in the bonus section, you need the password from the second game.. (and it also asks for the same thing in the game)..  so it would be very queer if at the very least the second one isn't released when it is actually needed to unlock a portion of the first game

There's also supposed to be downloadable content already. Try it out.

OBJECTION! It's not the best game on the DS, but it is great.

the game is great but i havent played to many DS games to call it the best