Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon Review

I can’t imagine Luigi has a swell time exploring the haunted houses of Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon. But this game has me personally possessed with delight!

Released in 2013, Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon (aka Luigi’s Mansion 2) is the sequel to the 2001 original. Contagious presentation and addictive ghostbusting gameplay ensure that Dark Moon is injected with spooky Nintendo charm.

A few frustrating design choices hold Dark Moon back from standing alongside the 3DS’s absolute best games. Still, this goofy spinoff series continues to show why we need to treat Mario’s younger brother with more respect. Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon proves that green can indeed be gold.

Who ya gonna call? Luigi!

Much of the personality that radiates from Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon comes from its titular protagonist. Luigi might appear to be one of the more unlikely, and unwilling, heroes in Nintendo’s hall of mascots. But Professor E. Gadd knows exactly who to call up after the Dark Moon is shattered and the peaceful ghosts of Evershade Valley begin to cause havoc.

Luigi’s nervous shifty glances and anxious humming to the theme music are small endearing character details. They made me both sympathize and laugh at his many misfortunes. Everything from his hurried running animation to his terrified expressions brought a smile to my face. And, they ensure that this game filled with ghouls and ghosts never takes itself too seriously.