Tomb Raider I-III Remastered: Review
OUR RATING: 9/10
The gaming industry has witnessed the rise of many iconic franchises, but few have achieved the level of recognition and cultural impact as Tomb Raider. The adventures of Lara Croft have captivated gamers for decades, and now, with the release of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, players have the opportunity to revisit the original trilogy in a whole new light. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the remastered versions of these classic titles, exploring the improvements, gameplay enhancements, and the overall experience of reliving Lara Croft’s early adventures.
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered brings the first three titles of the series to modern platforms, allowing players to experience the exact same levels and layouts that made these games so beloved back in the day. Developed by Aspyr and Crystal Dynamics, this remastered collection aims to strike a balance between preserving the nostalgia of the originals while introducing visual enhancements and modernized controls.
One of the most significant aspects of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered is the visual upgrade that breathes new life into these classic games. The remastered visuals feature improved texture quality, enhanced lighting effects, and more detailed character models. The environments are now bustling with improved flora and fauna, creating a more immersive and vibrant world. Despite the improvements, the remastered visuals maintain a sense of nostalgia, with the developers successfully capturing the essence of the original titles.
One of the standout features of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered is the ability to toggle between the remastered visuals and the original graphical style with a simple press of a button. This flexibility allows players to appreciate the improvements while also experiencing the games as they were originally intended. The loading screens and menus also receive a nostalgic treatment, further immersing players in the retro atmosphere of the remastered collection.
Recognizing the need to cater to both long-time fans and newcomers to the series, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered introduces a modern control scheme. This control scheme offers fluid movement and camera control, making exploration and combat more intuitive. However, it’s worth noting that the implementation of the modern controls is not without its flaws. Precision-platforming sections can be challenging due to the lack of backstepping, and players may encounter glitches when swimming or interacting with ledges. Fortunately, the option to switch back to the classic controls is available, providing a more authentic, albeit clunkier, experience.
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered brings together three of the most iconic video games of the 90s, offering players a chance to relive Lara Croft’s early adventures. Each game in the collection retains its original core mechanics, showcasing the timeless appeal of the series’ gameplay. From precision platforming to exciting showdowns with enemies, the gameplay elements that made the original titles so enjoyable remain intact.
One of the standout features of the original Tomb Raider games was their impressive level design, and this aspect shines through in the remastered collection. Despite the blocky design limitations of the time, the level layouts still hold up remarkably well. Exploring ancient tombs, solving puzzles, and uncovering hidden pathways is just as satisfying now as it was back in the 90s. The attention to detail in the level design is a testament to the enduring quality of these early Tomb Raider titles.
For players who have fond memories of playing the original Tomb Raider games, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered is a nostalgic treat. Revisiting familiar locations and experiencing the revamped visuals adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the gameplay. The remastered collection captures the essence of the originals while injecting a sense of modernity, creating a truly unique and satisfying experience for long-time fans.
It’s important to note that the gameplay of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered may not resonate with everyone, especially those unfamiliar with the series or accustomed to more modern game design. The platforming sequences can feel slow-paced and demand a high level of precision, and the gunplay may seem simplified compared to contemporary titles. Additionally, the lack of guidance in some levels and the occasional frustrations with the modern control scheme may deter newcomers. However, for those willing to embrace the old-school design and appreciate the games’ historical significance, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered offers a rewarding and challenging experience.
Beyond the visual and control improvements, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered includes several additions that enhance the overall experience of playing these classic titles.
One of the highlights of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered is the inclusion of all expansions for each game. This means that players can now enjoy the full breadth of content that was released alongside the original titles. Whether it’s uncovering new tombs, tackling additional challenges, or discovering hidden secrets, the expanded content adds significant value to the remastered collection.
Aspyr has also introduced a photo mode in Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, allowing players to capture and share their favorite moments from the games. Additionally, the inclusion of trophies provides an extra layer of achievement and replayability for those seeking to fully immerse themselves in Lara Croft’s adventures.
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered successfully revitalizes the classic Tomb Raider trilogy, allowing players to relive Lara Croft’s early adventures in a modernized and visually enhanced package. The authentic visual upgrade, modernized controls, and expanded content make this collection a must-have for long-time fans of the series. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the gameplay mechanics and design may not appeal to everyone, particularly those unfamiliar with the franchise or seeking a more streamlined gaming experience. Nevertheless, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the original Tomb Raider games and a nostalgic journey that both old and new fans can appreciate.
