The next time you're going on a trip and you need something skill-testing and fun to play while in the car or on a plane, I urge you to check out Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box ($30) for the Nintendo DS (OK, I'll admit, I'm a sucker for playing it right before bed). Being one of those people who loves mini-games and brainteasers (Rhythm Heaven and Brain Age 2 being two of my favorite games), I knew I had to take Professor Layton for a test drive when I found out it has 150 puzzles to solve.

When you first turn on the game, you can't help but think it's designed for a child and wonder if the mini games are actually going to be challenging to solve. But before long, you instantly get hooked on the illustrated storyline that involves a murder mystery that needs to be solved by renowned puzzle-solver Professor Layton and his apprentice, Luke.

The two embark on a journey, which is filled with logic puzzles and riddles, and you can even access more brainteasers via your DS and DSi's WiFi connection (one available each week for the next 32 weeks).

To continue reading my review and to watch a fun commercial for the game just read more.

When playing Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box the actual puzzles seem to get more challenging as the game progresses, but what's great is that there isn't a time limit on the puzzles (so you can really take your time trying to solve them) and you can access hint coins for puzzle clues if you really get stumped. I also love the fact that the game will continue regardless if you can't solve a mini game along the way.

Overall, the game itself is challenging, riveting (love the actual storyline), the animated characters are adorable, and the puzzles keep me coming back for more.