I didn't really expect the writers to play the "hah, magic doesn't exist!" card and although it was a pretty interesting plot twist, I still can't go along with some of the plot points they've built to support this argument. Particularly the bell, the ink and the Yoma really came across as way too supernatural for what the story was trying to establish in the end. Do the Layton games often incomporate semi-supernatural elements like these? It could be a reference I missed since I've only played one Layton game before around six years ago. Also the motive for the Storyteller was kind of unbelievable. I understand caring about your daughter and all, but to do all this crazy shit just to let her live in a fantasy where she and her friend never committed any fault? Also, why would the English government support a ridiculous plan like that? Unless it's the current government of course.. Anyway, I guess most of my criticism towards the plot of the game comes from the fact that I'm looking at it from the normal Gyakuten perspective, which usually (although not always, Magatama and what not) tries to make its important plot points and twists a bit less ludicrous than what this crossover has done.
Overall I liked the game though, it was pretty, still full of the usual Gyakuten humor and the music wasn't bad either. I have to admit that I didn't really like the Layton-segments. The puzzles were rather easy and felt a bit disconnected from the story sometimes. Especially the rooftop fight with the Storyteller's gargoyle knights was just ridiculous, both the puzzle and the way Layton turned into a damn martial arts god. Layton was a cool character (the Japanese he speaks is very pleasing to read), but I didn't really like how he magically pieces the entire truth behind the village together with just the things you've seen while playing as him. Naruhodo is actually legitimately surprised during a lot of the revelations in the game, just like he usually is during AA, but Layton knew everything, I can't remember him being surprised or being wrong at all. He was too perfect and kind of made Naruhodo bad in comparison and that kind of put me off. Also, I was waiting the entire game for Mayoi to use her spirit medium skills, but unfortunately she was pretty useless
. Still good to see her 'back' as Naruhodo's sidekick. Oh yeah, and the court opening music for the last case was awesome. That's about it I guess, reading this post again I feel it sounds more negative than I thought it would. I still think it was worth playing though! Hopefully some of the other people in this thread who've finished the game can post their thoughts. Off to Gyakuten 5! In two weeks after my girlfriend leaves Taiwan
.