Poltergust

The Poltergust is a fictional vacuum cleaner-like device featured in Nintendo's Luigi's Mansion video game series. It is primarily used by the protagonist, Luigi, to interact with and capture ghosts. The device has undergone several iterations throughout the games, with each version offering enhanced functionalities.

The original Poltergust 3000, introduced in Luigi's Mansion for the GameCube, functions by allowing Luigi to first stun ghosts with his flashlight and then suck them up into the vacuum. Once a ghost is captured, Luigi must then pull against it to weaken and ultimately defeat it. The Poltergust also possesses a leaf blower function, which can be used to clear away debris, activate windmills, and even stun ghosts in certain situations.

In Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, the Poltergust 5000 is introduced. This model retains the core ghost-capturing functionality but introduces new modes. The "Slam" ability allows Luigi to slam captured ghosts against the ground for extra damage. A "Super Suction" mode is also available, capable of pulling heavier objects and even multiple ghosts simultaneously.

The latest iteration, the Poltergust G-00, appears in Luigi's Mansion 3. It builds upon the capabilities of its predecessors, featuring a "Burst" ability that pushes ghosts away and clears the immediate surroundings. A unique "Gooigi" function allows Luigi to create a gelatinous doppelganger, which can interact with certain obstacles and even pass through grates. The Poltergust G-00 can also be combined with environmental objects to create specialized "Super Poltergust" functions, such as a "Squidshot" or "Cannon," for overcoming specific challenges. The Poltergust is central to the gameplay mechanics of the Luigi's Mansion series, providing Luigi with the means to overcome his paranormal adversaries.