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Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris
Item: Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2014

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Platformer, Shooter, Old-School Style, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableDec 8, 2014

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One

DeveloperNixxes Software

Overview

Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris is the sequel to Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, and the second game in a spin-off from the main Tomb Raider series. The two-player cooperative campaign from the first game is expanded to support up to four players. They need to work together in a platform environment to explore the temple, defeat hordes of enemies from the Egyptian underworld, solve puzzles, and avoid traps, using a high-angle perspective like the previous game. When playing together, the level lay-outs change to support cooperative actions.

Elsewhere

6.4

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

89%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The Story of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris has received a mix of opinions from critics regarding its narrative. Cheat Code Central and PC Gamer both appreciate the engaging simplicity of the story, with Cheat Code Central noting that it keeps the adventure moving forward, and PC Gamer finding it simple yet engaging, focusing on Lara and Carter's mission to stop Set from destroying the world. Softpedia also highlights the tongue-in-cheek moments and satisfying conclusion in the story, adding a layer of enjoyment for players. On the other hand, several critics, such as GameSpot and Eurogamer, express disappointment in the lack of depth and engagement in the storytelling. Eurogamer mentions the Saturday morning cartoon feel of the game, indicating a lack of sophistication in the narrative. GameSpot echoes this sentiment by stating that the story strikes a mundane chord despite the mythological motifs present. Additionally, ActionTrip and God is a Geek find the story repetitive, basic, and falling flat, respectively, suggesting a lack of originality and impact in the storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the story of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris being serviceable but not exceptional. While some reviewers appreciate the straightforward and engaging nature of the narrative, others criticize its lack of depth and originality. Critics like Cheat Code Central, PC Gamer, and Softpedia find enjoyment in the simplicity and satisfying conclusion of the story, while GameSpot, Eurogamer, and ActionTrip point out its shortcomings in terms of engagement and originality. Ultimately, the general sentiment suggests that the story serves its purpose in setting up the gameplay and adventure but may not leave a lasting impression on players looking for a more immersive narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the narrative of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris. Some like its engaging simplicity and focus on stopping Set, while others criticize its lack of depth and originality, calling it repetitive and basic. Overall, the consensus is that the story is serviceable but not exceptional, with some finding enjoyment in its simplicity while others feel it falls flat.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

76%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of several critics highlight the positive aspects of the gameplay in Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris. Cheat Code Central praises the game for its mix of action and puzzle-solving elements, offering complex and interesting puzzles alongside top-down dual stick shooter and isometric RPG gameplay. Gameplanet commends the isometric gameplay for putting a new spin on the traditional design, describing it as engaging and cleverly structured. Digital Chumps appreciates the simple and straightforward top-down shooting gameplay with challenging puzzles, engaging enemies with impressive AI, and intense boss battles. These critics emphasize the enjoyable cooperative experience, well-designed puzzles, and the seamless combination of combat encounters, traps, and platforming, creating a fast-paced and rewarding gameplay experience. On the other hand, some critics express concerns and criticisms regarding certain aspects of the gameplay in Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris. Critical Hit points out issues with precision in platforming, stating that accidental deaths are frequent and frustrating, exacerbated by long loading times. Digital Spy mentions that the platforming feels loose and not as smooth as expected from the Tomb Raider franchise, while Eurogamer criticizes the juddery platforming due to sticky ledges and weightless weaponry in combat. Push Square criticizes the game for being too short and easy, lacking challenge and depth, which may deter players seeking a more demanding experience. These criticisms highlight areas where the gameplay could be improved for a more polished and satisfying gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris leans towards the positive side. The game is praised for its cooperative fun, engaging puzzles, and well-designed levels by various critics such as GameSpot, Gamestyle, and Game Revolution. While there are concerns raised about aspects like platforming precision and lack of challenge by critics like Critical Hit and Push Square, the majority of reviewers appreciate the mix of action, puzzles, and combat encounters that the game offers. Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris seem to succeed in delivering an enjoyable gameplay experience, especially when played with friends, despite some room for improvement in certain gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris for its engaging mix of action, puzzles, and cooperative gameplay, with well-designed levels and challenging boss battles. However, some critics point out issues with platforming precision, lack of challenge, and short length. Overall, the game offers a fast-paced and rewarding experience, particularly when played with friends, despite some areas that could be improved.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

36%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The critics generally praise the graphics and visual design of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris for its impressive lighting effects, detailed environments, and thematic consistency. PC Gamer commends the game for its fantastic lighting and depth-of-field effects, while GameWatcher describes the graphics as smooth, shiny, and well-themed with a clean and colorful style. Digital Chumps appreciates the visually appealing environments with depth of field, detailed shading, and lighting, noting that the weather effects help bridge the graphical generation gap. EGM highlights the meticulously detailed tombs and impressive dynamic lighting effects that contribute to a visually stunning experience. On the downside, some critics point out limitations and issues with the graphics of the game. Critical Hit mentions that the isometric adventuring gameplay may not feel innovative, while GameSpot and Digital Spy find the visual fidelity unimpressive on current-generation consoles. Softpedia raises concerns about camera zooming causing issues, lackluster textures, and clipping through objects. Push Square criticizes the lack of variety in level design despite standout graphics with next-gen touches. The Sixth Axis notes that while environments are detailed and presented well, minor enemy characters lack variety and animations are not fluid. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris offers visually appealing graphics with detailed environments and impressive lighting effects. While there are some concerns about repetitive level design, lackluster textures, and minor graphical issues, the majority of critics appreciate the thematic consistency, atmospheric visuals, and attention to detail in the game's graphics. Critics like Eurogamer and God is a Geek acknowledge the noticeable improvements in graphics compared to previous installments, while Game Revolution and GameWatcher highlight the game's competent and well-themed visual design. Despite some criticisms, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception of the graphics and visual presentation of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praise Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris for its stunning graphics, detailed environments, and impressive lighting effects. Some critics note limitations like repetitive level design and minor graphical issues, but overall appreciate the thematic consistency and atmospheric visuals. Despite some drawbacks, the game's graphics are generally well-received for their attention to detail and improvement over previous installments.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris received praise from several critics. Digital Chumps and DarkStation both highlighted the orchestrated music, with Digital Chumps drawing comparisons to iconic adventure films like Indiana Jones and The Mummy. DarkStation specifically mentioned the immersive score enhancing the gameplay experience. The Jimquisition commended the talented voice acting, particularly noting Set's actor for bringing energy to the performance. The SixthAxis appreciated the sound design, mentioning the fitting orchestral music and eastern tones, as well as the return of Keeley Hawes as Lara's voice actress. On the other hand, there were some criticisms regarding the Sound Design and Music of the game. Softpedia pointed out that while the voice acting was well done, some interactions felt forced or mismatched in tone. USgamer expressed frustration with constant annoying chatter undermining the suitably atmospheric music, regardless of the number of players. Xbox Achievements criticized the voice acting as overblown and slightly daft, detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards the positive side for the Sound Design and Music of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris. The orchestrated music, talented voice acting, and fitting sound design were highlighted as strengths by multiple reviewers such as Digital Chumps, The Jimquisition, and The SixthAxis. Despite some criticisms regarding forced interactions, annoying chatter, and overblown voice acting, the general sentiment is that the audio elements of the game contribute positively to the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praised the sound design and music of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris for its orchestrated music reminiscent of iconic adventure films, immersive score, talented voice acting, and fitting sound design. However, some critics criticized forced interactions, annoying chatter, and overblown voice acting. Overall, the consensus is positive, with the audio elements enhancing the gameplay experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

50%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

In terms of positives, there are some critics who found the voice acting in "Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris" to be commendable. Softpedia appreciated the overall quality of the voice acting, mentioning that it was well done. The Jimquisition specifically highlighted the talent in the voice acting, particularly praising Set's actor for bringing energy and charisma to the role. On the negative side, the majority of critics expressed disappointment with the voice acting in the game. Critical Hit noted that most of the cut scenes and dialogue felt lifeless, indicating a lack of emotion or engagement in the performances. GameWatcher went as far as describing the voice acting as "hideously weak," potentially attributing this to issues with the script. Xbox Achievements criticized the voice acting as overblown and slightly daft, suggesting a lack of subtlety or nuance in the delivery. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed reception of the voice acting in "Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris." While there were some positive remarks regarding the talent and quality of certain performances, the general sentiment points towards a lackluster delivery that failed to fully engage or impress. The varying opinions on the voice acting, ranging from well-done to weak and overblown, suggest that the overall execution may have been inconsistent and divisive among players and reviewers. The emphasis on the shortcomings in character development and emotional depth, as noted by Push Square, further reinforces the idea that the voice acting may not have effectively enhanced the storytelling experience in the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics had mixed feelings about the voice acting in "Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris." While some praised certain performances for energy and charisma, most found the overall delivery lacking emotion and engagement. Described as both commendable and hideously weak, the voice acting failed to impress across the board. This inconsistency left players and reviewers divided, with some noting a lack of character development and emotional depth in the storytelling experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

16%

Mixed (50-79)

58%

Negative (0-49)

26%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of technical performance on the PS4, several critics highlighted positive aspects of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris. PlayStation LifeStyle noted a mostly steady frame rate, while Shacknews praised the generous checkpoint system and lack of major technical issues. However, there were also negative points raised by reviewers. GameSpot and NZGamer mentioned issues with controls affecting navigation, while Critical Hit pointed out server and lobby problems hindering online multiplayer. Despite these drawbacks, Gameplanet found the game still enjoyable to play on the PS4. Moving on to the PC platform, opinions were more varied. DarkZero commended the solid performance post-patch, although minor UI issues were reported. Conversely, Game Revolution criticized prominent frame-rate issues in online co-op mode, and Softpedia highlighted glitches during online play, such as lag causing disjointed actions. PC Gamer mentioned jittery camera adjustment when using a mouse but found no other major technical performance issues. Overall, the PC version of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris seemed to have a mix of positive and negative technical aspects. On the Xbox One, feedback was generally positive regarding technical performance. DarkStation reported smooth gameplay with only minor issues encountered, while EGM and ZTGD both mentioned the game running smoothly on the platform. However, there were some drawbacks noted by critics. Eurogamer and Polygon highlighted minor bugs affecting animations and gameplay triggers, while Gaming Age and TheSixthAxis pointed out camera issues impacting platforming and combat. USgamer also mentioned challenges in judging enemy positions and projectiles due to the fixed perspective and cooperative design. Despite these criticisms, the Xbox One version of the game was generally well-received by reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris is mixed. While some platforms like the Xbox One received more positive feedback in terms of smooth gameplay, others like the PC and PS4 had a mix of positive and negative points. The game's technical issues varied from platform to platform, with some reviewers experiencing bugs, frame-rate issues, and control problems. Despite these technical shortcomings, many critics still found the game enjoyable to play, highlighting its fun gameplay elements and engaging cooperative experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris received mixed reviews for technical performance across different platforms. While the Xbox One version was generally praised for smooth gameplay, the PC and PS4 versions faced issues like frame-rate problems, control issues, and glitches. Despite these technical shortcomings, many critics still found the game enjoyable due to its fun gameplay and engaging cooperative experience.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

66%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of several critics regarding the Replay Value of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris are quite varied. Many critics highlighted the positive aspects of the game that contribute to its replayability. Cheat Code Central, Gameplanet, and Digital Chumps all praised the multiplayer aspect of the game, emphasizing how playing with friends enhances the experience and adds to the game's longevity. Gamestyle and Arcade Sushi pointed out the presence of various collectibles, challenges, and customization options that give players reasons to revisit the game multiple times. Additionally, DarkZero and Digital Spy appreciated the cooperative gameplay elements that require teamwork and offer a different experience each time, further increasing the replay value. On the other hand, some critics expressed concerns and drawbacks regarding the game's replay value. Push Square and Shacknews criticized the short length of the game and the lack of incentives beyond completion, which may deter players from replaying it. Slant Magazine highlighted the grind required for the loot-based system and the lack of clarity on the overall replay value. Metro GameCentral mentioned that the game becomes less enjoyable when played solo, indicating a potential limitation in the single-player experience. These criticisms suggest that certain aspects of the game may not appeal to all players in terms of replayability. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards the positive side in terms of the game's replay value. Critics like Critical Hit, ActionTrip, and Xbox Achievements appreciated the variety of challenges, collectibles, and co-op gameplay that contribute to the game's lasting appeal. Despite some concerns raised by individual critics, such as Push Square and Polygon, the majority of reviewers found Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris to offer a compelling and engaging experience that encourages multiple playthroughs. The game's emphasis on multiplayer dynamics, diverse gameplay elements, and rewarding exploration seems to have resonated well with most critics, making it a title with solid replay value for those who enjoy cooperative and challenging gameplay experiences.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on the replay value of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris. Many praise its multiplayer aspect, collectibles, and cooperative gameplay for enhancing replayability. However, some criticize its short length, lack of incentives, and solo play experience. Overall, most reviewers find the game compelling and engaging, offering a variety of challenges and co-op gameplay that make it worth revisiting.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris, it is evident that there are several positive aspects highlighted by the reviewers. Critics like Gamestyle and DarkStation praise the game for being fun, engaging, and offering a fantastic gameplay experience. Gameplanet also commends the game for being cleverly structured despite its flaws. Additionally, Digital Chumps and We Got This Covered appreciate the engaging gameplay, challenging puzzles, visually appealing environments, and the incredibly fun multiplayer experience that the game provides. On the other hand, there are some negative aspects pointed out by the critics. Game Revolution mentions performance issues with the online component, while Softpedia highlights control issues, pacing problems with the story, and unimpressive graphics. The Jimquisition and Eurogamer mention some shortcomings in the game, such as not fully developed ideas, lack of first-rate individual parts, and a lack of innovation in single-player mode. Furthermore, Critical Hit and Metro GameCentral note that the game falls short in delivering a memorable experience and lacks originality compared to its predecessor. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed but generally leans towards the positive side. While some critics acknowledge the game's glitches, dated aspects, and shortcomings in various areas, many appreciate Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris for its fun and engaging gameplay, clever puzzles, cooperative fun, and enjoyable multiplayer experience. The game is praised for its unique combination of action and puzzle-solving elements, making it a worthwhile adventure for fans of the series and those looking for a fun multiplayer experience. Critics like Cheat Code Central and Digital Spy highlight the game's strengths in offering a unique gameplay experience and coming alive when played with friends, ultimately making it a recommended choice for players seeking a cooperative and entertaining gaming experience.

TL;DR

Critics praise Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris for its engaging gameplay, fun multiplayer experience, and clever puzzles, despite some performance issues and lack of innovation. Overall, the game offers a unique blend of action and puzzle-solving elements, making it a recommended choice for fans of the series and players looking for cooperative fun.

MONSTER

Reviews

103 reviews found

DarkStation

Xbox One

Dec 8, 2014