Tomb Raider I-III Remastered
- February 14, 2024
- Crystal Dynamics
Aspyr really pulled through in making a superb package for new explorers and old adventurers to dig into, but I still have no clue why there is no platinum trophies on the PS5 edition?!
"Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" is a collection of the first three Tomb Raider games, with updated graphics and all expansions included. Explore ancient mysteries, solve puzzles, and travel the world as Lara Croft in these classic adventures, with the option to switch to the original polygon look. This definitive collection allows you to play the complete Tomb Raider experience on modern platforms.
Reviews
- Tomb Raider I-III Remastered features impressive visual upgrades that enhance the original aesthetic while preserving the classic gameplay experience.
- The collection includes all three games along with their expansions, providing a substantial amount of content for both newcomers and veteran fans.
- Modern controls and the ability to switch between original and remastered graphics make the game more accessible and enjoyable for a new audience.
- Many of the original gameplay mechanics and control issues persist, leading to frustration for players unfamiliar with the series.
- The remastered visuals can sometimes be overly dark, making navigation difficult in certain areas.
- The lack of a platinum trophy on the PS5 edition and the need for manual saves detract from the overall experience.
- graphics20 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The graphics of the remastered titles have received mixed reviews, with many praising the extensive visual upgrades that enhance the original aesthetic while providing a nostalgic experience. However, some players noted issues such as overly dark visuals and inconsistent lighting, alongside frustrations with manual save requirements. Overall, the remaster is seen as a strong way to experience classic games, especially for newcomers, despite some gameplay control shortcomings.
“Incredibly faithful remaster, with wonderfully enhanced visuals, added immersion and atmospheric elements. Gameplay still holds up remarkably well, a good amount of content to play through, perfect starting point for newcomers.”
“Impressive visual upgrade across the board, three games and three expansions is great value. Optional modern control scheme is very welcome, 60fps performance to accompany the upgraded visuals, photo mode is a neat addition.”
“Of course, it helps that Aspyr have done an absolutely fantastic job of bringing the classic adventures into a modern light, with the revamped visuals, cool gameplay additions, and inclusion of all expansions ensuring this is the definitive way to experience three of the most iconic video games of the 90s.”
“Remastered visuals are extremely dark, no platinum trophy for PS5 players.”
“Some of the lighting is a bit off with the new visuals, and the need to manually save your game is a big no-no in 2024, but if you're curious as to how Lara Croft got her start in gaming, then this is easily the best way to experience the original trilogy.”
“Newcomers will find basic navigation a steep learning curve, having to manually save is frustrating, remastered visuals can make some areas appear too dark.”
- gameplay11 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 45 % neutral mentions
- 27 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the Tomb Raider 1-3 remastered collection is a blend of classic mechanics and modern enhancements, offering a nostalgic experience for veterans while providing a more accessible entry point for newcomers. While the remaster features striking visuals and includes all expansions, some players may find the outdated mechanics and clunky controls frustrating. Overall, it successfully revives the iconic gameplay of the originals, making it a noteworthy remaster despite its imperfections.
“Whether you're a newcomer or veteran fan, the games remain hugely enjoyable and challenging, and the extra improvements really shine, particularly if you're new to the series and are intimidated by the old-school mechanics.”
“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.”
“Of course, it helps that Aspyr have done an absolutely fantastic job of bringing the classic adventures into a modern light, with the revamped visuals, cool gameplay additions, and inclusion of all expansions ensuring this is the definitive way to experience three of the most iconic video games of the 90s.”
“Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered offers an appealing new visual style but retains all of the frustrating mechanics of the originals.”
“Although Tomb Raider Remastered does a phenomenal job at updating the original titles’ graphics, it doesn’t improve their abysmal controls or dated gameplay.”
“Outdated gameplay mechanics can sometimes be more frustrating than enjoyable, and clunky manual saves are unforgiving.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is praised for its incredibly faithful remaster, featuring enhanced visuals and immersive elements that elevate the overall experience. Reviewers note that the gameplay remains strong, providing a substantial amount of content, making it an ideal entry point for newcomers.
“Incredibly faithful remaster, with wonderfully enhanced visuals, added immersion, and atmospheric elements.”
“The gameplay still holds up remarkably well, providing a good amount of content to play through.”
“A perfect starting point for newcomers, thanks to its captivating atmosphere.”
- stability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's stability is marked by a few minor but noticeable issues, including occasional object and texture glitches, imprecise modern controls compared to classic tank movement, unusual shadow behavior, and the presence of very small keys that can be easily overlooked.
“There are a handful of small and rare, but noticeable, object and texture glitches.”
“Modern controls feel less precise than the classic tank movement.”
“Unusual shadow behavior can be distracting during gameplay.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game has sparked debate among users, with some viewing it as a genuine love letter to fans, while others criticize it as a quick cash grab. This divide highlights concerns over the balance between player experience and profit motives.
“Is this a love letter to players or just a quick cash grab?”
“The monetization feels overly aggressive and detracts from the overall experience.”
“It's frustrating to see so many features locked behind paywalls.”
- music1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised, maintaining its classic appeal while complementing the updated visuals. Players appreciate the ability to switch between new and old visuals, enhancing the overall experience.
“The music is still amazing.”
“Three classics in one package, the updated visuals are really nice.”
“Swapping back and forth between new and old visuals enhances the experience.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game is highly praised, featuring impressive visual upgrades and smooth 60fps performance. The inclusion of a modern control scheme and a photo mode enhances the overall experience, making the three games and three expansions a great value for players.
“The impressive visual upgrade across the board enhances the overall experience.”
“The optional modern control scheme is a very welcome addition for players.”
“The 60fps performance to accompany the upgraded visuals makes gameplay smooth and enjoyable.”
Critic Reviews
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered GBAtemp review
Aspyr really pulled through in making a superb package for new explorers and old adventurers to dig into, but I still have no clue why there is no platinum trophies on the PS5 edition?!
88%Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered Review – Losing Patience
Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered offers an appealing new visual style but retains all of the frustrating mechanics of the originals. Hardcore fans will probably enjoy it, but it's not for everyone.
60%Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft Review - A Fantastic Collection Of PSOne Classics With Meaningful QoL Improvements
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft is a superb collection of some of the PSOne's best adventure games. Whether you're a newcomer or veteran fan, the games remain hugely enjoyable and challenging, and the extra improvements really shine, particularly if you're new to the series and are intimidated by the old-school mechanics. Dive in and discover Lara Croft at her very best.
90%