Professor Layton and the New World of Steam Delayed to 2026, Level-5 Cites Need for Additional Development Time

Level-5, the renowned Japanese developer behind the acclaimed Professor Layton series, has announced a significant delay for its upcoming title, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam.

Initially slated for a 2025 release, the next installment in the beloved puzzle adventure franchise will now arrive in 2026 for the Nintendo Switch.

This latest development comes as Level-5 continues its longstanding tradition of delivering high-quality, story-rich puzzle experiences to fans worldwide. First revealed during a Nintendo Direct, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam has generated substantial anticipation as the first new mainline entry in the series in nearly a decade.

Promising a blend of challenging puzzles, captivating storytelling, and stunning hand-drawn visuals, the game aims to carry on the legacy of its predecessors while introducing new mysteries for both longtime fans and newcomers on the Nintendo Switch platform. In an official statement, Level-5 explained the reasons behind the revised launch window: "To ensure we deliver Professor Layton and the New World of Steam in its best form, we have made the decision to move the release date from 2025 to 2026." The publisher expressed regret for the inconvenience, adding, "We sincerely appreciate your continued support and understanding as we work to provide the quality our community expects." Professor Layton and the New World of Steam marks an important return for the Professor Layton series, which has sold millions of copies globally across various Nintendo hardware generations, including the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS.

Level-5’s focus on fine-tuning and further development reflects their commitment to upholding the series’ reputation for intricate puzzles and memorable characters.

With the postponement to 2026, fans will need to wait a bit longer to embark on the Professor’s latest adventure via the Nintendo eShop and physical release on the Nintendo Switch. Level-5’s portfolio is celebrated for its critical and commercial successes, and the company’s decision to delay Professor Layton and the New World of Steam underscores its dedication to quality.

While the extended wait may disappoint eager players, it ultimately signals a thoughtful approach to game development—one that prioritizes delivering a polished, rewarding experience worthy of the Layton legacy. Stay tuned for further updates from Level-5 and Nintendo Direct presentations as more details emerge about Professor Layton and the New World of Steam ahead of its confirmed 2026 release.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Steam Level-5 Switch Professor Layton Professor Layton and the New World of Steam Nintendo Direct