Best Luigi's Mansion Game: Ranking the Franchise's Trilogy

Among Nintendo's cherished franchises, Luigi's Mansion stands out for its quirky charm and distinctive gameplay mechanics. Since its inception in 2001, Luigi's Mansion has captivated players with its ghostly levels and innovative gameplay. In this article, we will delve into the world of Luigi's Mansion and rank the main entries in the franchise from eerie to ethereal.

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3. Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon (2013)

Luigi's Mansion Dark Moon | Image: Nintendo

Securing the third spot in our ranking is Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, the much-anticipated sequel that came to the Nintendo 3DS in 2013. Initial concerns about losing the immersive scale of TV play were quickly dispelled by the game's clever evolution of the classic Luigi's Mansion gameplay.

Dark Moon introduces themed mansions, each with its own unique feel and challenges. While some critics found these themes somewhat unnatural, it's worth noting that the original Luigi's Mansion might have evoked similar sentiments at its debut. The sequel continues the spirit of deviation from the main Mario universe, with distinct ghost designs and fresh gameplay mechanics.

While not a radical departure, Dark Moon still forges its path with a touch less of the original's atmosphere and ingenuity. Despite this, it stands as a solid sequel to the unique charm of the first game, offering an engaging handheld ghost-hunting experience.

2. Luigi's Mansion 3 (2019)

Luigi's Mansion 3 | Image: Nintendo

Claiming the second position is Luigi's Mansion 3. Released in 2019 for the Nintendo Switch, this installment elevated the franchise to new heights. Loaded with new challenges, the game boasts an array of gameplay additions, intricate puzzles, and captivating character designs that make it a standout in the Luigi series.

From an objective perspective, Luigi's Mansion 3 is unquestionably the most feature-complete game in the franchise. Its rich narrative, diverse adversaries, and creative level design make a gaming experience that is as engaging as it is haunting. The game's duration provides ample time to immerse yourself, making it a enjoyable for both newcomers and longtime enthusiasts.

However, the nostalgia remains strong, and for some, the simplicity of the original Luigi's Mansion retains its appeal. Nevertheless, the widespread acclaim and remarkable success attained by Luigi's Mansion 3 unquestionably solidify its status as a modern classic, destined to be treasured alongside the first game for many years to follow.

1. Luigi's Mansion (2001)

Luigi's Mansion | Image: Nintendo

Securing the top spot in our ranking, to no one’s surprise, is none other than the game that initiated it all - the original Luigi's Mansion. A departure from the norm, this 2001 GameCube launch title whisked Luigi from jumping antics to ghost-capturing expertise, captivating players in the process.

This game's timelessness lies in its deviation from the traditional platformer. Instead of adhering to the anticipated formula, Luigi's Mansion introduced players to a quirky, vacuum-wielding Luigi on a mission to rescue his brother from supernatural adversaries. The unique gameplay mechanics, where Luigi wields a vacuum cleaner to combat and capture ghosts, deliver an incredibly satisfying and distinctive experience.

The mansion serves as a playground for both puzzling combat and mysterious riddles. This game's introduction of new ghost types added a fresh layer of excitement, showcasing Nintendo's knack for innovative character design. While criticized for its relatively short length, Luigi's Mansion remains a testament to a captivating era in Nintendo's history and the GameCube's unique charm.

The Wrap

The groundbreaking Luigi's Mansion franchise not only established Luigi's endearing persona as a lovable coward but also broadened the horizons of the Mario universe. Rooted in Nintendo's gameplay-centric philosophy, it delivered an immersive encounter. Whether Luigi's ghost-catching journey was its initial inspiration or a later adaptation, the games remains a shining testament to Nintendo's unrivaled creativity and embodies the captivating distinctiveness of the Luigi series.

Happy Gaming!

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