As one of themost downloaded Nintendo Switch games of 2019,Luigi’s Mansion 3served as one of last year’s standouts on the hybrid console and may be one of its killer apps. However, there were components of the game that players took issue with, including the lack of an upgrade system, which the game’s developer recently spoke out about.
A recent interview was conducted withLuigi’s Mansion 3producer Yoshihito Ikebata, lead producer Kensuke Tanabe, and game director Bryce Holliday. The three discussed multiple topics related to the game, includingpuzzle design, level design, player choice, and the monetary system that seems demonstratively limited.Luigi’s Mansion 3lets the player amass a lot of money throughout the several-hour adventure. By collecting coins, dollar bills, pearls, and gold bars, players can expect to collect a large fortune in the process of ghosthunting.
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Luigi’s ghostbusting weapon, thePoltergust G-00, cannot be upgraded with all the money collected. However, Holliday explains that the money had been left in the hotel “a long time ago.” However, Ikebata elaborates that the money inLuigi’s Mansion 3doesn’t belong to the ghosts but rather was hidden “at some point in time.”
Ikebata noted that the currency was a determinant for one’s grade after beatingLuigi’s Mansion 3. The idea of getting hints from E. Gadd for money had been considered but was finally dismissed when it was felt that it would stop players from seeking his guidance. Further, it was ultimately decided that an upgrade system wasn’t necessary, with Holliday explaining that game concepts like skill trees and upgrades aren’t up Luigi’s alley since he “already has the skills and bravery needed to tackle any problem.”
“Cleaning, destroying and collecting are engaging, Zen experiences that everyone is familiar with since childhood,” states Holliday. “It is compelling even if there is no other reason than the act itself.”
The developers' reason for the absence of an upgrade system is sensible. Luigi isn’t a hero that is necessarily engaged with more sophisticated gameplay elements like skill trees. Rather,Luigi’s Mansion 3is all about the simplistic actions described by Holliday, which provides its own sense of enjoyment. Regardless ofthe game’s less forgivable qualities, it does contain unadulterated entertainment.
