Review of Tomb Raider I–III Remastered on Switch: Not in ruins
Our Verdict
While the controls and combat can be frustrating at times, this is due to the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered collection being the faithful trilogy of remasters that it should be, allowing you to revisit where the iconic franchise all started.
It's 1996. Depending on where you live in the globe, the PlayStation has been out for a year or two, and amazing games are still being released. Resident Evil, Crash Bandicoot, and Final Doom are among the games that have released so far this year; but, there is a legendary game that is still in the works. Tomb Raider debuted on October 24, 1996, and because to its gameplay, visuals, and title character, it quickly gained popularity among both gamers and reviewers.
We have Uncharted because of this game, people, and guess what? The popularity of Tomb Raider led to the rejection of three successive sequels in 1997, 1998, and 1999, thus Lara Croft's legacy is just getting started. The Tomb Raider I-III Remastered collection brings back the first three of these four games: Tomb Raider, Tomb Raider II, and Tomb Raider III. Remasters and remakes are two very distinct things; a remaster only updates the game's visuals and releases it on new platforms. The gameplay and plot haven't changed in any noticeable way.
In light of this, I had the immense, if annoying, pleasure of re-reading this classic trilogy. One of my all-time favourite video game series is Tomb Raider. From her 1996 debut to the 2021 Tomb Raider: Definitive Survivor Trilogy and the 2023 The Lara Croft Collection, I possess every one of her adventures. Yes, I purchase every game as soon as it comes out; I may have an issue, but something about her polygonal bosom made me feel something.
It should come as no surprise, therefore, that I leaped at the opportunity to use the Nintendo Switch to play the Tomb Raider I–III Remastered collection. Because of the controls as well as the superb puzzle design, fans of the original games may probably infer how challenging the games are. Look, the controls in any games from the 1990s may be a real pain in the butt nowadays, but Lady Lara elevates the experience to a whole new level.
Since blocky and stiff controls were common at the time, it's difficult to criticise a PlayStation One remaster for having them. Remasters, as I mentioned earlier, are essentially faithful ports with shiny new graphics. If you decide to play this collection, be ready to deal with the camera and controls, especially in the first game where it can be difficult to change directions and position yourself for a jump. Despite how frustrating the controls can be, they also have a strangely nostalgic charm that will probably appeal to kids from the '80s and '90s.
Regarding the previously stated enhanced visuals, the better illumination may greatly facilitate globe navigation. You have improved vision and a clearer understanding of the path ahead. Even while I like the upgraded visuals, there's something special about experiencing the game in all of its splendour from the beginning. Fortunately, you can quickly transition between the old and new style, much as you do with Xbox console games like the Halo Master Chief Collection.
Aside from the graphics and controls, I like Tomb Raider because of its enjoyable gameplay, which served as an influence for other games. Let me explain what to anticipate from the gameplay of Lara's original games, including the 2007 anniversary remake, if you have somehow avoided playing any of them. The main idea of Tomb Raider is that you get to explore several tombs (hence the name), all of which have traps and riddles meant to murder you.
There is more to it than that, so don't worry. There's a reason Lara has her signature handguns. You have to utilise those firearms to your advantage in battle as you must defeat a variety of foes, including wolves, bears, bats, people, and a dinosaur, in addition to navigating different regions throughout the stages and doing your best to escape spike pits. That's correct—there is a Tyrannosaurus rex in Peru.
While new players may need some time to get acclimated to the fighting, aficionados of the original games probably already know how awkward the roll and placement can be. Once again, you may play the original game with this remastered collection, which is why I'm happy to see that the battle is still there. Sure, subsequent games have more simpler gunplay, but is that really fun? Yes, there are many, but that isn't the main point.
Naturally, every game has its unique plot, setting, and cast of characters, but the gameplay is always the same, particularly in this trilogy. Therefore, if you go through all three without stopping, you can become tired. Like many reviewers back when Eidos Interactive published Tomb Raider III in 1998, you'll be yearning for something new. Though the game is still engaging, its lack of inventiveness and formulaic changes knock it down, and it's easy to see why.
Even yet, Lara's witty and sardonic style provides for some excellent enjoyment, even when the tension builds until the trilogy's conclusion. Actually, I think Lara Croft is the reason I'm so sassy. I can state with confidence that, as a 1990s-born gamer girl, I looked up to her in many ways, particularly at a time when there weren't many prominent female video game characters. I am grateful to Lara Croft for providing me with my first understanding of the "I can do anything" mindset. As a child, this is a significant realisation.
Aside from the title character, the trilogy has other excellent antagonists that will make you yell with satisfaction when you defeat them. Perhaps the cruellest thing you can do, however, isn't to the big bads in Tomb Raider II—you can put your faithful butler in the freezer. Although the creator didn't intend for players to do that in 1997, Aspyr has adorably made the butler turn blue in recognition of how commonplace it is in modern games. I'm here to help you freeze him, literally, right now. 10 out of 10, no notes.
Regarding performance, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered functions really well on the Nintendo Switch, both docked and portable. Because of the platform's mobility, I would even argue that this is the best place to play the game. Tomb Raider is an excellent game to play on the go, but if, like me, you're crazy about trophies and accomplishments, I'd recommend playing it on the Xbox or PlayStation, where all three games have over 200 awards to be won.
The Tomb Raider I–III Remastered box set is a loving tribute to the first three films. Experience one of the most famous videogame series in all its splendour, even if the controls and fighting of the era may be difficult. Regardless of your level of fandom, I strongly advise you to check out the collection. While Lara may detest tombs, I don't.
Check out our selections for the finestCrash Bandicoot games andResident Evil games for even more fantastic experiences from Lara's time. Yes, video games had a very great year in 1996.