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Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft
Item: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Single Player

AvailableFeb 14, 2024

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

DeveloperAspyr

Overview

Play the Original Three Tomb Raider Adventures: For the first time ever, play the complete experience with all expansions and secret levels on modern platforms in this definitive collection. Included Game Titles Tomb Raider I + The Unfinished Business Expansion Tomb Raider II + The Gold Mask Expansion Tomb Raider III + The Lost Artifact Expansion Solve Ancient Mysteries: Uncover treasures of the ancient world by solving puzzles and unraveling mysteries lost to the ravages of time. Globe-trotting Adventure: Follow Lara Croft around the world and face off against deadly foes and dangerous myths. Lovingly Restored: Experience the classics boasting upgraded graphics, with the option to switch to the original polygon look at any time.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" is celebrated for its nostalgic charm and Lara Croft's pioneering role in gaming, but critics slam its outdated storytelling and minimal narrative presentation. While the core adventures hold up, the remaster falls short in modernizing dialogue and features, making it a mixed tribute to Croft's legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft" is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the nostalgic and pioneering aspects of the franchise. Digital Chumps praises Lara Croft as a trailblazer for strong female characters in gaming, while Eurogamer Poland emphasizes her dual role as an archaeologist and skilled fighter. Critics like Movies Games and Tech appreciate the trilogy's interconnected narratives, filled with dramatic scenarios, engaging villains, and stunning environments. The nostalgic value of the original trilogy is a recurring theme, with Riot Pixels noting the charm of Lara Croft's adventures and the various challenges she faces, further underscoring the series' historical significance in the gaming landscape. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the storytelling and presentation of the remastered collection. CGMagazine points out that the writing lacks a timeless quality, relying on clichés and outdated cultural references, which may detract from the overall experience. Gameblog.fr mentions the minimal presentation of the narrative, highlighting the absence of features like chapter selection that could enhance the storytelling. Additionally, GamingBolt expresses disappointment in the execution of the remaster, suggesting that while the concept of Lara Croft exploring tombs is appealing, the delivery falls short of expectations. These critiques indicate that while the core stories remain intact, their presentation may not resonate as strongly with modern audiences. In summary, the consensus among critics is that while the remastered collection of the original Tomb Raider trilogy retains its charm and nostalgic appeal, it also reveals some weaknesses in storytelling and execution. Critics like GameGrin and IGN Adria affirm that the plots of the original games still hold up well, yet the remaster's lack of innovation in narrative presentation and dialogue has drawn criticism. Overall, the remastered collection is seen as a tribute to Lara Croft's legacy, but it also highlights the challenges of adapting classic narratives for contemporary audiences.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

"Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" balances nostalgia with modern updates, earning praise for graphics toggling and quality-of-life enhancements. However, critics slam the clunky controls, awkward camera work, and frustrating navigation, leading to a divided reception. While it appeals to long-time fans, many agree it struggles to meet contemporary gaming standards, leaving newcomers at a disadvantage.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The gameplay of "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft" has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its adherence to the original titles while integrating some modernized elements. Critics like Dexerto commend the game for staying true to its roots, highlighting the nostalgia factor and the introduction of modern controls aimed at improving accessibility. GameCritics noted the inclusion of quality-of-life changes, such as interactable object notifications and the ability to toggle between remastered and original graphics, which enhance the overall experience. Additionally, Meristation pointed out the diverse and intricate locations for exploration, while Digital Chumps appreciated the action-adventure gameplay that combines challenging puzzles with tough adversaries, making for a rewarding experience. However, the remaster is not without its significant drawbacks, as many critics have pointed out various issues that hinder the gameplay experience. CD-Action and Gaming Age expressed frustration with cumbersome camera work and awkward combat mechanics, while Impulsegamer noted that the modern controls could be particularly frustrating for new players. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and GamingBolt echoed similar sentiments, highlighting problems with camera angles, control responsiveness, and the overall clunky feel of the gameplay. Furthermore, there are concerns about the game's navigation, with critics such as Digital Chumps mentioning the absence of intuitive menus and autosaves, making the experience more challenging than enjoyable. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided sentiment regarding the gameplay of the remastered trilogy. While some reviewers, like PC Gamer and Pure Xbox, found enjoyment in the gameplay's challenges and modern control improvements, many others highlighted the dated mechanics and frustrations that come with the game. Critics such as GameGrin and TheSixthAxis emphasized that the remaster retains a clunky feel, particularly in platforming sections, which could alienate newcomers. Ultimately, while the remastered collection offers a nostalgic trip for long-time fans, the gameplay's execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in adapting to modern gaming standards.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered impresses with nostalgic graphics and improved textures but suffers from technical flaws and inconsistent quality. Critics praise the option to toggle between original and remastered visuals but note that some areas look dated or poorly executed. Overall, it’s a mixed bag that doesn’t fully meet modern standards, despite offering a nostalgic experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The remastered graphics of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their ability to evoke nostalgia while updating the visual experience. Many reviewers, such as XboxAddict and Meristation, highlight significant improvements in textures, lighting, and character models, which contribute to a more immersive environment. The option to toggle between original and remastered visuals is frequently noted, allowing players to appreciate the evolution of the series while retaining a connection to its roots. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Voxel commend the attention to detail in environments and character designs, with some reviewers mentioning enhancements like weather effects and better water textures that enrich the gameplay experience. However, the remaster is not without its drawbacks, as a significant number of critics point out inconsistencies and technical shortcomings. NintendoWorldReport describes the remastered visuals as "inconsistent" and "technically lackluster," while Noisy Pixel likens them to a low-budget PlayStation 2 game, suggesting that they fail to do justice to the original art style. Many reviews, including those from Radio Times and CGMagazine, mention that while some areas look fantastic, others appear bizarre or dated, with awkward character animations and sharp-edged geometry that clash with the improved textures. Issues with lighting and atmosphere are also prevalent, as noted by Hey Poor Player and GamingTrend, indicating that the remaster struggles to fully align with contemporary graphical standards. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Tomb Raider I-III Remastered offers a nostalgic and visually updated experience, it falls short of fully modernizing the graphics to meet current expectations. The ability to switch between original and remastered visuals is a highlight, providing players with a unique experience that honors the classic games. However, many critics, including those from Eurogamer and GameGrin, emphasize that despite some successful enhancements, the remaster often feels like a mixed bag, with a significant number of technical issues and artistic inconsistencies that prevent it from being a definitive upgrade.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft" boasts nostalgic audio praised by many for its atmospheric impact and charm, but critics highlight a lack of significant updates, citing irritating sound effects and missed opportunities for enhancements. While long-time fans appreciate the original soundtrack, the mixed reception shows a divide between nostalgia and the desire for a more refined modern sound experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the sound design and music of "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft" reflect a generally positive sentiment towards the nostalgic elements of the audio experience. Critics such as Adventure Game Hotspot praised Nathan McCree's soundtrack, highlighting its significant impact on gameplay and how it enhances the overall atmosphere. Similarly, PlayStation Country emphasized the grand nature of the soundtrack, noting that it contributes positively to the game's immersive qualities. ZTGD also pointed out the effectiveness of subtle music and audio cues, which aid in navigation and enrich the player experience. Overall, many reviewers appreciated the nostalgic value of the original music and voice acting, with GameGrin mentioning that the soundtracks across the trilogy were fantastic, resonating well with long-time fans. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and the lack of significant updates to the audio elements. PC Gamer expressed dissatisfaction with the sound design, citing short artificial loops and irritating sound effects that detract from the experience. XboxAddict echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the audio remains faithful to the original games, it could have benefitted from modern enhancements. Additionally, some critics, like Gameblog.fr, acknowledged the nostalgic value of the original voice acting but did not provide specific details on the overall sound quality, implying a lack of depth in the remastering process. The consensus indicates that while the audio retains its charm, it may not fully meet the expectations of players seeking a more contemporary sound experience. In summary, the overall consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the sound design and music of the remastered trilogy. While many reviewers, including Pure Xbox and TheXboxHub, appreciated the adherence to the original audio elements, others, such as PC Gamer and XboxAddict, highlighted the missed opportunity for enhancements. The remaster successfully evokes nostalgia for long-time fans, as noted by GameGrin and Adventure Game Hotspot, but the lack of significant upgrades has left some critics feeling that the audio experience could have been more refined. Ultimately, the sound design and music serve as a double-edged sword, providing both comfort and disappointment to different segments of the player base.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" features nostalgic voice acting that delights longtime fans, especially with the return of the original actress. Localization efforts are praised, but criticisms abound regarding emotional depth and coherence, with some describing the dialogue as "corny" and the character animations as lacking. Overall, the voice work is a mixed bag—while it appeals to nostalgia, it falls short of delivering a fully immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The voice acting in "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft" has garnered some positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding the nostalgic value it brings to long-time fans. Gameblog.fr highlights the return of the original actress, which adds a sentimental touch that resonates well with those familiar with the franchise. Additionally, the localization efforts have been praised, with Multiplayer.it noting the inclusion of Italian voice acting in the second and third games, suggesting a commendable effort to cater to a diverse audience. Noisy Pixel also contributes to the positive sentiment by stating that the voice acting comes across nicely, indicating that there are moments where the performances effectively engage the player. However, the overall reception of the voice acting is marred by several criticisms. PC Gamer points out that while the cutscenes attempt to convey emotion, they ultimately fall short of being convincing. CGMagazine echoes this sentiment, describing the dialogue and stage directions as "corny," which detracts from the overall immersion, especially when paired with the "janky movements" of the characters. This disconnect between the voice performances and the animation appears to be a recurring theme in the critiques, suggesting that the execution may not meet the expectations set by the nostalgia factor. In summary, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" is mixed. While there are notable strengths, such as the nostalgic return of the original actress and commendable localization efforts, the overall execution is criticized for lacking emotional depth and coherence. The opinions of PC Gamer and CGMagazine highlight significant shortcomings that may hinder the experience for some players, suggesting that while the remaster may appeal to fans, it does not fully capitalize on the potential of its voice acting.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered delivers a nostalgic experience with solid performance on PC, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X, praised for stability and control options. However, it's plagued by significant technical issues across all platforms, including glitches, frame rate drops, and awkward controls, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X. While it appeals to fans, the remaster struggles to meet modern gaming standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The technical performance of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft has garnered a mixed but generally positive reception across various platforms. On PC, reviewers like PC Gamer praised the game for its stability and performance, noting that it works as intended. Digital Chumps highlighted the addition of control options that enhance gameplay, while GameCritics pointed out the stable frame rates across graphic modes, which stay true to the original versions. On the Nintendo Switch, many critics, including NintendoWorldReport and Vooks, commended the game for running flawlessly at 60fps, both in docked and handheld modes. The remaster's performance on Xbox Series X also received some praise, with XboxAddict noting improved framerates and the ability to save/load at any time, and ZTGD stating that the game runs smoothly at 60fps on all platforms. However, there are notable technical issues across all platforms. On PC, COGconnected mentioned legacy camera issues and weapon aiming problems, while Eurogamer Poland pointed out occasional glitches that detract from the experience. For the Xbox Series X, Riot Pixels reported performance issues, including frame rate drops that echo the original versions, and Xbox Tavern criticized the awkward controls and lack of modern refinements. The Nintendo Switch version faced its own challenges, with Hobby Consolas highlighting graphical issues, frame rate drops, and clipping problems. On the PS5, many critics, including Gameblog.fr and Hey Poor Player, reported numerous bugs and glitches that negatively impacted the overall experience, with issues like camera control and lighting problems being particularly prevalent. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Tomb Raider I-III Remastered offers a nostalgic experience with several technical improvements, it is marred by various performance issues across all platforms. Critics like SpazioGames acknowledged the stable frame rates and improvements compared to the originals, yet many highlighted persistent glitches and control issues that hinder the experience. The remaster seems to successfully appeal to fans of the original games, but the technical shortcomings, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, suggest that it may not fully meet the expectations of a modern audience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" earns praise for its nostalgic appeal and extensive content, including bonus levels and over 200 achievements, enhancing replay value for fans. However, critiques highlight issues like lack of guidance, technical glitches, and minimal improvements, which may limit its charm for younger gamers. Overall, it's a solid trip down memory lane but may not captivate those unfamiliar with the classics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft" is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the nostalgic appeal and the extensive content included in the remaster. For instance, CD-Action appreciates the nostalgic journey for players familiar with the originals, while COGconnected notes the inclusion of bonus levels and expansions that enhance replayability. Critics like Meristation and XboxAddict emphasize the variety of content available, including over 200 achievements and the ability to switch between different graphic modes, which adds to the longevity of the experience. Additionally, the presence of quality-of-life improvements, such as the ability to save anywhere and a new photo mode, has been praised by Dexerto, indicating that these features encourage players to revisit the games. On the downside, some reviewers have pointed out several limitations that may affect the overall replay value. Eurogamer Poland mentions the lack of in-game guidance and occasional technical glitches, which could hinder the experience for some players. Xbox Tavern notes that while the remaster may serve as a history lesson, the lack of significant improvements may limit its appeal to modern gamers. Furthermore, Hey Poor Player argues that the remastered collection may only attract nostalgic players, as the original games feel surpassed by newer titles. Critics like Noisy Pixel express disappointment over the lack of additional content, suggesting it feels like a missed opportunity to celebrate the rich history of Lara Croft and the Tomb Raider franchise. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" offers a solid replay value, particularly for fans of the series and retro gaming enthusiasts. While many appreciate the nostalgic elements and the wealth of content available, including expansions and achievements, some critics express concerns about the remaster's limitations and the potential for fatigue when playing through all three games consecutively. Overall, the remaster is seen as a worthwhile experience for those who appreciate the classic titles, but it may not resonate as strongly with younger players or those unfamiliar with the franchise's history.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft" reflects a mix of nostalgia and appreciation for the classic titles, with several critics praising the remaster for its visual upgrades and the effort to bring the original games to modern platforms. For instance, critics like Push Square and Cubed3 commend the collection for its loving craftsmanship and beautification, highlighting the atmospheric music and the nostalgic experience it offers. The remaster is seen as a valuable way for fans to revisit Lara Croft's early adventures, with GamingTrend and XboxAddict noting that it retains the essence of the original trilogy, making it a worthwhile experience for those familiar with the classics. However, the remaster is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including Hey Poor Player and God is a Geek, argue that it fails to deliver meaningful updates, with gameplay mechanics feeling outdated and technical issues overshadowing the visual enhancements. Critics such as Softpedia and Impulsegamer express concerns about the archaic feel of the gameplay, suggesting that while the remaster may appeal to nostalgic players, it does not cater well to modern audiences. The lack of quality-of-life improvements, such as auto-save features and more intuitive controls, is a recurring theme in the reviews, with critics like GamingBolt and Voxel emphasizing that these shortcomings hinder the experience for newcomers. The overall consensus among critics indicates that "Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" is a nostalgic tribute that primarily caters to long-time fans of the series, while it may struggle to engage new players. While some reviewers, like Adventure Game Hotspot and IGN Adria, find value in the balance of nostalgia and modern enhancements, others caution that the remaster's flaws could deter those unfamiliar with the originals. Ultimately, the collection is viewed as a mixed bag, with its appeal largely dependent on the player's familiarity with the original titles, as noted by critics such as Gaming Age and Digital Chumps, who highlight the remaster's significance as a historical artifact rather than a fully modernized gaming experience.

TL;DR

"Tomb Raider I-III Remastered" evokes nostalgia and appreciation for classic gameplay with visual upgrades, but faces criticism for outdated mechanics and technical issues. While it pleases longtime fans with its tribute to the originals, it lacks essential modern features, leaving newcomers and casual players wanting. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—great for veterans but potentially disappointing for those unfamiliar with Lara Croft’s early adventures.

MONSTER

Reviews

126 reviews found

100

Dexerto

Feb 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly praised for its modernized appearance and the level design and gameplay that have aged well.

Digital Chumps

Feb 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the remastered games for capturing the magic of the original Tomb Raider games and states that everything has been left the same in a positive way.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Feb 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tomb Raider Remastered is praised as a fantastic collection that captures the essence of the original games, recommended for those nostalgic for the original titles.

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Feb 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the remastered versions of the games and recommends them to both veterans and newcomers.

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Cubed3

Nintendo Switch

Feb 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft is praised as a masterfully beautified collection that offers the whole experience of the original games in a brand new coat of paint. The remastered edition is considered one of the best upgrades of old-school classics.

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COGconnected

Feb 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the remastered trilogy as a great time capsule and a way to experience the evolution of action/adventure games.

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GameCritics

Mar 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered is an excellent collection that allows fans to experience Lara's earliest adventures, despite some graphical issues and difficulty spikes in TR3.

SpazioGames

PlayStation 5

Feb 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The remastered collection is praised for respecting the original material, offering a nostalgic experience, and providing a balance between preservation and modernization. Some gameplay elements have aged better than others, but overall, the remaster is well-received.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Feb 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall positive review highlighting the value of the remastered collection, despite some control and technical issues.

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Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Feb 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the collection for offering three excellent games with DLC for each game at a reasonable price. It suggests that the collection is a great fit for the Nintendo Switch.

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