Developer – Aspyr, Crystal Dynamics

Publisher – Aspyr

Platforms –  Nintendo Switch,PS4/5 , Xbox One , Xbox One Series S|X,PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Publisher

Picture this: it’s the epitome of the ’90s, a time when flannel shirts and slap bracelets ruled the fashion scene. You’ve just popped a CD into your Walkman, and the sweet sounds of Nirvana are filling the air. You’re rocking a pair of baggy jeans while sipping on Surge, that neon-green elixir of the decade. But the pièce de résistance? You’re sprawled out on a bean bag, in front of a massive tube TV, holding a greasy slice of pizza in one hand and a PlayStation controller in the other. The pixels of Lara Croft are dancing on the screen as you navigate through the ancient tombs, the iconic triangle-jumping action sending you on a nostalgia trip. It’s the perfect fusion of ’90s bliss – the grunge music, the radical fashion, the fluorescent drinks, and the digital adventures that made the era unforgettable. What If I told you, you could now relive these memories ? Throw on 90’s Kids by Jax and grab some Mountain Dew Baja Blast and Doritos, as where about to jump back to the 90’s , with Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft.

The Tomb Raider series has been a cornerstone of the gaming industry, and the recent remastered editions of the first three titles provide a welcome opportunity for both seasoned fans and newcomers to embark on Lara Croft’s iconic adventures. The revitalized graphics are immediately striking, breathing new life into the classic games while preserving the essence of their original environments. Lara herself undergoes a significant transformation, featuring more detailed character models and fluid animations that enhance the overall visual experience. The remastered editions introduce improved lighting effects, dynamic shadows, and enhanced textures, collectively transforming once pixelated landscapes into visually stunning and immersive worlds.

As we delve into the individual titles, Tomb Raider I Remastered faithfully retains its original narrative, focusing on Lara’s quest to recover the Scion of Atlantis. The developers, however, seize the opportunity to add a layer of depth to the cutscenes, providing a fresh perspective on Lara’s character and her interactions with the game world. These subtle tweaks contribute to a more engaging experience for both seasoned players revisiting the game and newcomers experiencing it for the first time.

Moving on to Tomb Raider II Remastered, players are greeted with various gameplay innovations. The revamped controls offer a smoother and more responsive experience, addressing some of the challenges posed by the original’s tank-like movements. Modern mechanics, including a user-friendly inventory system and refined combat, seamlessly integrate into the classic gameplay. The remastered edition successfully strikes a balance between nostalgia and contemporary gaming expectations, enhancing the overall enjoyment without compromising the core essence of the game.

Tomb Raider III Remastered takes narrative depth to the forefront. The story, revolving around the hunt for mystical artifacts, benefits from refined voice acting and improved facial animations. The addition of subtle details and extended dialogues fleshes out the characters and their motivations, making the overall experience more engaging. The remastered edition successfully immerses players in Lara’s journey, deepening the emotional impact of the narrative and reinforcing the connection between the player and the game world.

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft is a triumphant return to classic gaming adventures. The careful remastering of each game allows players to toggle between enhanced and original graphics seamlessly, providing a visual treat for both new and returning fans. The inclusion of classic and modern joystick control schemes caters to players with different preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The addition of new features such as photo mode, achievements, and quality-of-life improvements, along with the inclusion of all secret levels and expansions, adds significant value to the remastered collection. Whether you’re a long-time fan reliving nostalgic memories or a newcomer discovering Lara Croft’s adventures for the first time, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered delivers a satisfying blend of classic gameplay and modern enhancements, making it a must-play for any fan of the iconic franchise.