Tomb Raider Reviews
Tomb Raider remains one of the better action games to have been released in the last twelve months, and it gives the next generation consoles some life in a rather dry time. This is without doubt the definitive console edition of Tomb Raider, but the completeness and subtle visual enhancements are not enough to warrant another playthrough.
Tomb Raider is one of the games of the last generation and now it's that little bit prettier, and better for it. More realistic, more visceral as a result and an absolute delight to play through one more time. If you missed it first time around buy it now, if you loved it originally it's better the second time around and if you are still on the fence, trust us when we say you really should pick up the definitive version as soon as your wallet allows for it. A great release to fill the void before some decent games come out on both next gen platforms.
Reactive hipoints on enemies would have been a much more "definitive" way to go here, but like the core story and animations, it's delivered in the same broken (or unrealistic) fashion as the 2013 release. Combat is the least fun in the game, but it's passable regardless. What's best to take away from this is you get the full game and all content released, updated visuals that actually make the game look next-gen, and that same rewarding sense of adventure and exploration coupled with Lara's personal, traumatic ascension to true Tomb Raider. Bring on the inevitable sequel, I say.
This isn't a package made for those who've already explored Yamatai, this is for those first setting foot into Lara's adventure. For them it's an essential purchase, for everyone else it really doesn't matter.
If you have already played Tomb Raider, there isn't much sense in paying $60 to play this again; just stick with the current gen version. But if you haven't played Tomb Raider and own a next-gen console, you should definitely give this version of the game a look, as it's worth every penny.
If you passed on 'Tomb Raider' when it released earlier in 2013, or opted to hold out for the Definitive Edition, now is a great time to experience this incredible franchise reboot; highly recommended on a current gen console. While I was disappointed to see a $60 price tag associated with the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions, I realized after playing it that it is much more than a simple up-rez of a game nearly a year old. The opening moments of 'Tomb Raider' on the PlayStation 4 confirmed for me that the developers at Crystal Dynamics put their heart and soul back into a game they so clearly love. While the updated visuals are quite stunning and, at times jaw-dropping, the gameplay continues to be immersive – with incredible set pieces, high action, acrophobia-inducing platforming, and an interesting story with likable characters. I said it in 2013 when I completed 'Tomb Raider' the first time, and I'll say it again here – 'Tomb Raider' has found a way to give Naughty Dog's 'Uncharted' series a real run for the money, and I can't wait to see where Lara's adventure's lead her next.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is indeed "definitive." It's a definite step up and that's undeniable. We can argue all day long about whether or not it's "worth it.
If you never had the chance to experience the game a year ago, then the Definitive Edition is an absolute no-brainer. In fact, we're even slightly envious of those people that waited, because Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is one of the Xbox One's best games.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition's enhancements are cosmetic-only so the flaws present in the game's last-gen version are still present. Even so, it's a great game made greater, so for those yet to play it, this is the version to get.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition, is certainly not a misnomer - if you're picking up the game for the first time, this is absolutely the one to go for. It's the same brilliant game that came out last year, all polished up and looking its finest. For returning adventurers, on the other hand, there's so little in the way of new content that there's not much point buying the new version unless you had an urge to replay it anyway.
The Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition features a rebuilt Lara Croft, improved textures and lighting effects, not to mention all the previously released DLC.
The upstep in visual detail from the older console versions is a nice bonus, but Tomb Raider didn't need massaging. It's the same well-realised action reboot for Lara Croft that came as such a pleasant surprise last year. It's still well-written, sympathetic, exciting, beautiful, and just incredibly well-made.
A great cinematic action adventure, with one of gaming's great lead performances, although its Tomb Raider DNA seems fragmented and even degenerative in parts.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is as exciting as it is gorgeous, offering a robust adventure that satisfies on almost every front.
Tomb Raider is a fantastic solo adventure. Admittedly, I couldn't help but wish my first experience with Tomb Raider was the Definitive One. If you come into Tomb Raider, this "Definitive Edition, thinking that it's anything more than a shinier port, you'll likely leave disappointed.
A great game made better thanks to a lovely lick of paint.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is an exceptional port of an already entertaining escapade, but outside of the extravagant visuals, there's not a whole lot to sweeten the purchase a second time. If you have a perverse penchant for grave robbing, or you've never stepped foot on the strange shores of Yamatai before, then this is an enjoyable band-aid for the emerging next-gen drought. Just don't expect it to change your mind if you didn't like the original game.
With an emphasis on improved graphics, this PlayStation 4 port is the best Tomb Raider yet. Unfortunately, this Definitive Edition doesn't add enough new content to warrant a second purchase. If you have somehow missed out on Lara's newest adventure, then Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is a must buy.
Tomb Raider itself is well-worth the purchase—it's a great game. The decision you must make is if improved visuals are enough to warrant buying this Definitive Edition. Frankly, I'm convinced that its release is more about profitability on a product that's already crafted than it is about bringing a vastly superior next-generation version of Tomb Raider to the market. For $59.99, it's not that much better than the PS3 version aside from some visual sprucing. Those that have already experienced the game aren't missing much with the Definitive Edition. However, had you missed Tomb Raider on the PS3 and have interest in Lara Croft's surprisingly fast transformation into a resilient killing machine, then you may as well pony up the extra cash to play the best version of the game: the Definitive Edition.
While not as "definitive" of a package as one might hope for $60, thanks to its markedly improved graphics and performance, Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is now the only way I'd want to experience Crystal Dynamics' rebooting of gaming's leading lady.