While Japan looks forward to Professor Layton 2, western audiences are just about to receive the original Nintendo DS version of the game. Set in the village of St. Mystere, players step into the inquisitive boots of Layton as he attempts to track down an elusive treasure hidden somewhere in the village.

Professor Layton and the Curious Village features more than 130 puzzles, ranging from mazes and riddles to logic and sliding puzzle - many, developer Level-5 explains, which are new to the North American version of the game. In addition, as we previously reported, new puzzles will be available to download via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. One new brain teaser a week will be released for the first six months that Professor Layton is on sale.

Story details:

When the wealthy Baron Augustus Reinhold passes away, his will reveals a hidden treasure in the village of St. Mystere. Unable to locate the treasure themselves, the baron’s family calls upon renowned puzzle expert Professor Layton and his apprentice, Luke, for help. Upon the pair’s arrival, their search for the treasure is interrupted by the suspicious death of another member of the Reinhold family. Now with two mysteries on their hands, Professor Layton and Luke must work their way through the village’s many puzzles, riddles and brainteasers to find the truth.

Nintendo’s official website notes that Professor Layton is released on February 18, while the latest press release differs with a February 10 launch date. We’d be inclined to stick with the former.