Tomb Raider remastered collection 4-6 [Review]
Aspyr has once again breathed new life into Lara's classic adventures with the Tomb Raider remastered collection 4-6. This collection, much like the first remastered collection, is a masterpiece. Aspyr has completely overhauled the graphics and controls, bringing them up to modern standards. The tank controls (pretty much just Resident Evil controls) and a more modern control scheme are all available options. The modern controls are a personal favorite. A toggle allows players to switch between the original PS1 graphics and the modern. I spent a lot of time toggling the graphics in each area so I could see the differences. The game boasts retextured graphics. The menus, reminiscent of an old PS1 screen, add a touch of nostalgia.
Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness, however, was not completed for this review due to it being a bad game. Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness just wasn't a good game back in the day, and I don't think any remaster would do it justice, although I won't completely write it off. I'll submit a review for just that game alone in the future. It would be neat to stack it up to the original version. Angel of darkness has previously unused content and voice lines that have been added to this remaster and various things have been done to redeem it. Tomb Raider 4 and 5 are fantastic games and more than makeup for the lackluster 6th game. The older Tomb Raider games are always kicking my butt; they're definitely not easy! But it's super fun to solve the puzzles and realize I'm way smarter than I was 20 years ago. I had a great time playing, even without the nostalgia factor. Fans of the early Tomb Raider games will instantly be transported back to those pixelated adventures. The character's movements, while perhaps not as fluid as in modern titles, retain that signature clunkiness that was once a hallmark of the series.
Leaps and bounds may not always be graceful, but they evoke a sense of nostalgia. And, true to the spirit of the original games, Lara Croft won't just be contending with ancient puzzles and treacherous tombs; she'll also need to keep a watchful eye out for the local wildlife, which is far from friendly. From wolves and bears to more exotic predators, the wilderness is teeming with creatures eager to make Lara their next meal. The puzzles are still challenging and engaging, proving that this game is not to be taken lightly. Nostalgia aside, this remastered collection is well-polished and achieves its goals. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that a photo mode is available for those who enjoy using them. Although I don't personally use them, it's a nice addition. It's perfect for those who loved the original Tomb Raider series and those who struggled but want to redeem themselves. Newcomers to the series, however, may not enjoy the older feel of the game. The Tomb Raider remastered collection is available for all current platforms for $29.99.
