In the year 1996, the first game in the “Tomb Raider” series saw release. Introducing archeologist and countess Lara Croft to the world, the game saw two direct sequels in 1997 and 1998; kicking off a massive franchise in the process. Now, the first three games have seen a multiplatform remaster under the combined leadership of Aspyr Media, the Embracer Group and developers Crystal Dynamics.
The original game, alongside the same year’s “Super Mario 64” and “Resident Evil,” played a large part in establishing conventions for 3D exploration in video games. All three original titles are remastered with 1080p visual support and 60 frames per second; and those who played the original games can switch to the classic graphics with the push of a button. The expansion packs for each game have also been included in full, along with explorable versions of Lara’s home for players to test their abilities.
On top of the original mechanics, the games also feature modernized control schemes from developer Crystal Dynamics’ work on the fan favorite title “Tomb Raider: Legend.” Though many aspects of the games may be products of their time (a fact noted by content disclaimer that opens the game), the impact left by the franchise and its lead character are considerable. Much like Indiana Jones before her, the simplest joy is found with Lara exploring parts of the world that no longer exist to find artifacts that might have never existed at all.
While the future of the franchise remains unclear under the ownership of the Embracer Group (a new game is in development alongside new adaptations coming to both Netflix and Amazon Prime; but not many details are currently known as of this writing), this trilogy’s latest remaster is one made for and by fans of the series. It’s also well worth checking out for players who have yet to try them, as this release marks the original trilogy’s first appearance on current-generation hardware platforms.
Overall, this latest release of the original “Tomb Raider” trilogy is the ideal way for longtime fans to re-experience classic 3D adventure titles; and for newcomers to try them for the first time.
Publisher: EIDOS Interactive (Original)/Embracer Group with Aspyr Media (Remaster)
Developer: CORE Design (Original)/Crystal Dynamics with Aspyr Media (Remaster)
Platform: PS4 (Also available on PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and Xbox Series)
ESRB Rating: M
My Rating: ****1/2:5
