Get ready for an enhanced gaming experience with the upcoming Tomb Raider I-III Remastered collection. Unveiling a slew of quality-of-life updates, players can now enjoy modern controls and health bars for bosses. The team behind this remaster has taken a meticulous approach, ensuring the preservation of the original games. Fans can choose to toggle most of the new tweaks and enhanced visuals, maintaining the essence of the classic titles.
Originally revealed in a September Nintendo Direct, the remastered trilogy has kept a low profile since then. Bringing together the first three ‘90s-era Tomb Raider games featuring the iconic Lara Croft, the collection teased improved visuals during its surprise announcement. However, details remained scarce throughout 2023. Now, just weeks before the much-anticipated release, developer Aspyr has shared a comprehensive blog post, shedding light on the exciting new features and updates awaiting players in Tomb Raider I-III Remastered.
On January 16, Aspyr’s director of product, Chris Bashaar, shared insights on the official PlayStation Blog, detailing the collaborative efforts with Crystal Dynamics, the long-time custodians of the series. Their goal was to strike the perfect balance between “preservation and modernization.” In practical terms, this means players can seamlessly switch between the updated visuals and the original graphics at any time.
Adding to the visual overhaul, Aspyr has introduced a significant change by replacing all 2D sprite-based items in the games with brand new 3D models. Bashaar notes that this adjustment provides “a little more umph to item pick-ups,” enhancing the overall visual experience.
Revitalizing the Timeless Journey of Tomb Raider
The transformation of the initial trio of Tomb Raider games goes beyond visual enhancements. With a focus on catering to contemporary gamers, a new control option has been introduced, utilizing the right stick for camera movement—a familiar setup aligned with the conventions of today’s third-person action games in 2024. Additionally, a camera lock-on system has been confirmed through a separate tweet. However, for those who cherish the classic tank controls of the original games, worry not; the options menu allows you to revert to the beloved old system at your preference.
In addition to gameplay enhancements, the trilogy boasts over 200 trophies (or achievements for Xbox users), distributed across all three games. These trophies go beyond the ordinary, offering rewards for unique accomplishments such as locking the infamous mansion butler in the freezer—an iconic feat for Tomb Raider enthusiasts.
Moreover, Aspyr introduces a comprehensive photo mode across all three games, enabling players to capture in-game moments seamlessly. Notably, this feature allows users to switch between classic and modern visuals even while in photo mode, adding a dynamic element to the visual experience.
The adjustment and modernization of controls stand out as a particularly welcome change, addressing a longstanding obstacle for me when revisiting these timeless adventures. The inclusion of the classic tank controls in the remastered trilogy is a delightful touch, offering players the flexibility to choose their preferred playstyle.
Set to launch on February 14 across multiple platforms—PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC—the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered promises an exciting journey for both new and nostalgic players. Meanwhile, Crystal Dynamics is in collaboration with Amazon Games, teasing the anticipation for the next “biggest” entry in the series.
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