Summary

Celebrating a decade of Lara Croft’s adventures, Tomb Raider: Anniversary marries the essence of the original game with modern graphics and gameplay improvements. It serves as a bridge across generations, paying homage to the legacy of Tomb Raider while inviting new players to discover the origins of one of gaming’s most iconic characters.

Release Year: 2007
Genres: Adventure, Platform, Shooter, Simulator, Strategy
Platforms: Mac, OnLive Game System, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Wii, Xbox 360
Developers: Buzz Monkey Software, Crystal Dynamics
Publishers: Eidos Interactive, Feral Interactive, Square Enix

Introduction

In 2007, the video game industry witnessed the return of an icon with the release of Tomb Raider: Anniversary. This title was not just a mere remake but a celebration of one of gaming’s most influential figures, Lara Croft. By reimagining the original Tomb Raider game with modern technological advances, developers aimed to bridge the gap between nostalgia and contemporary gaming.

Synopsis

“Tomb Raider: Anniversary” is an action-adventure video game developed by Crystal Dynamics and Buzz Monkey Software. Published by Eidos Interactive in 2007, it was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 2, Xbox 360, PlayStation Portable, Wii, and mobile phones. The game was later ported to OS X in 2008 and PlayStation 3 in 2011.

The game is the eighth overall entry in the Tomb Raider series and the second in the Legend trilogy. “Anniversary” is a remake of the first Tomb Raider game, originally released in 1996. The game takes place before the events of 2006’s “Tomb Raider: Legend” and follows the series protagonist, Lara Croft, on her quest for the Scion of Atlantis.

The game begins with Lara Croft being hired by a mysterious woman named Natla to find a lost and very powerful artifact known as the Scion. This artifact is said to hold immense power and is believed to be located somewhere in the lost city of Atlantis.

The gameplay features Lara navigating through fourteen levels set across four locations around the world. The player controls Lara from a third-person perspective. The game is filled with puzzles, traps, and enemies that Lara must overcome to progress. The Wii version of the game includes console-exclusive motion control elements, while the mobile adaptation features side-scrolling gameplay emulating earlier mobile Tomb Raider titles.

Throughout her journey, Lara uncovers the truth about the Scion and the dangerous individuals who seek to use its power for their own nefarious purposes. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she must confront her own past and make decisions that could alter the course of her future.

The game was generally well-received by critics, who deemed it a worthy remake of the original game. However, some criticism was aimed at the game’s graphics and occasional technical issues. The Wii version also divided opinion, with some critics praising the implementation of motion controls but others faulting them.

Despite its critical success, “Tomb Raider: Anniversary” was the worst-selling entry in the franchise, selling just 1.3 million copies worldwide. The game was followed by “Tomb Raider: Underworld” (2008), the last in the Legend trilogy that takes place directly after the events of “Legend”.

“Tomb Raider: Anniversary” is a thrilling journey through time and danger, filled with puzzles, action, and adventure. It offers players a chance to step into the shoes of the iconic Lara Croft and experience her world like never before. Despite its commercial performance, the game remains a beloved entry in the Tomb Raider series and a testament to the enduring appeal of its daring heroine.

Characters

Lara Croft – The protagonist, an intrepid archaeologist with unmatched physical prowess.
Natla – The antagonist, owner of Natla Technologies, with dark secrets and a connection to the Scion artifact.
Other characters include allies and foes Lara encounters on her journey, each adding depth to the story.

Gameplay

The gameplay of Tomb Raider: Anniversary is a blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements. Players navigate through beautifully re-designed locations from the original game, employing Lara’s acrobatics, combat skills, and new mechanics like rope swinging and the grappling hook to overcome obstacles and enemies.

Conclusion

Tomb Raider: Anniversary stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Lara Croft and her adventures. By successfully modernizing the original experience without losing its essence, the game offers both a nostalgic journey for veterans and a thrilling adventure for newcomers.