While the original Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon (known as Luigi's Mansion 2 in some regions) was released well before Luigi's Mansion 3, its High Definition (HD) remaster, Luigi's Mansion 2 HD, was indeed released after the third main installment. This strategic release allows a new generation of players, many of whom were introduced to the series through the highly successful Luigi's Mansion 3, to experience an updated version of the predecessor while maintaining the core of the series intact with exploration and ghost busting being paramount.
Understanding the Release Order
It's important to distinguish between the original release of Luigi's Mansion 2 and its more recent HD remaster. Here's a quick look at the main series' release chronology:
Title | Original Release Date | Original Platform | Remaster Release Date | Remaster Platform |
---|---|---|---|---|
Luigi's Mansion | September 14, 2001 | GameCube | October 12, 2018 | Nintendo 3DS |
Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon | March 20, 2013 | Nintendo 3DS | June 27, 2024 | Nintendo Switch |
Luigi's Mansion 3 | October 31, 2019 | Nintendo Switch | N/A | N/A |
As the table shows, Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon (the original Luigi's Mansion 2) predates Luigi's Mansion 3. However, its HD version for the Nintendo Switch came out in 2024, placing it after Luigi's Mansion 3's 2019 release.
Reasons for Releasing an HD Remaster After a Sequel
The practice of releasing a remastered version of an older game after a more recent, successful installment is common in the video game industry. There are several key reasons behind this strategy:
- Capitalizing on Success: Luigi's Mansion 3 was a massive commercial and critical success, selling millions of copies and garnering significant praise. This success introduced many new players to the series. Releasing Luigi's Mansion 2 HD allows Nintendo to re-engage this new fanbase with an earlier title they might have missed. As the reference suggests, if you are coming to Luigi's Mansion 2 HD after Luigi's Mansion 3, which is likely because of how well it sold, you'll be able to experience the series' progression.
- Bringing to Current Hardware: The original Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon was released on the Nintendo 3DS. Releasing an HD version for the Nintendo Switch updates the game for Nintendo's current flagship console, allowing it to take advantage of improved graphics, higher resolutions, and a larger screen, making it accessible to a wider audience without needing older hardware.
- Bridging the Gap: For players who loved Luigi's Mansion 3, the HD remaster provides an opportunity to delve into the series' past, experiencing the game that refined many of the mechanics that would later appear in the third installment. While there are a few major concessions to note when playing Luigi's Mansion 2 HD after the more polished Luigi's Mansion 3, it offers a valuable look at the series' evolution.
- Extending Franchise Life: Remasters help to keep a beloved franchise relevant during the development cycle of entirely new entries. They fill gaps between new releases, maintaining player engagement and interest in the series.
What to Expect from Luigi's Mansion 2 HD
For players coming from Luigi's Mansion 3, Luigi's Mansion 2 HD offers a slightly different experience, optimized for the Nintendo Switch. While the core gameplay loops of exploration, puzzle-solving, and ghost-busting remain paramount, the structure and some mechanics may feel distinct due to its 3DS origins. It's an excellent way to revisit or discover the second adventure of Luigi and his Poltergust.