Luigi's Mansion is a launch title for the Nintendo GameCube, released in September 2001. Although, the game started its development cycle as a Nintendo 64 title, it was eventually canceled near the end of the system's lifecycle. It initially started off as a Tech Demo, but the producers decided to make it a game. It marks the 2nd time where Luigi is the main character, with Mario being trapped, following Mario is Missing! from 1993. The game is notable for its dark tone and parodical take on survival-horror gameplay, as well as debuting series staples Professor E. Gadd and King Boo.