Summary

With its deep dive into Egyptian mythology, intricate puzzles, and expanded gameplay, Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999) offers a compelling continuation of Lara Croft’s adventures, pushing the boundaries of action-adventure gaming.

Release Year: 1999
Genres: Adventure, Puzzle, Shooter
Platforms: Dreamcast, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita
Developers: Core Design
Publishers: Aspyr Media, Eidos Interactive, Square Enix

Introduction

In 1999, Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation brought fresh innovations to the beloved Tomb Raider series, elevating Lara Croft’s adventures to new heights of complexity and intrigue.

Synopsis

“Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation” is the fourth installment in the popular Tomb Raider series, developed by Core Design and published by Eidos Interactive. Released in 1999 for PlayStation and Microsoft Windows, and the following year for Dreamcast and Mac OS, the game follows the adventures of archaeologist Lara Croft as she embarks on a thrilling journey of discovery across Egypt.

The narrative of the game revolves around Lara’s race against time to imprison the Egyptian god Set, whom she accidentally sets free. The game begins with a mandatory two-level tutorial area set in Cambodia, and the rest of the levels take place across various locations in Egypt. The levels are split into different zones, and some level areas need to be revisited to progress further into the game.

The gameplay of “The Last Revelation” is an action-adventure experience that features Lara navigating levels split into multiple areas and room complexes. As with earlier Tomb Raider titles, the game is presented from a third-person perspective. Key to progress is solving puzzles scattered throughout the level, which can rely on both pulling different types of switches or finding key items.

Lara must overcome the most ingenious puzzles and infernal traps ever devised, and face terrifying evil from beyond the grave. The game offers more twists and turns than an Egyptian labyrinth, providing heart-stopping action-adventure. The redesigned inventory system gives Tomb Raider brand-new gameplay. Combined with Lara’s new moves and abilities, gameplay features greater scope than ever before.

Clear objectives and smaller locations result in less time spent traveling between areas. Individual environments are more reminiscent of the original game – tightly focused and puzzle-oriented, but with higher levels of detail and a greater number of objects than seen before. An emphasis on ancient locations and tombs allows mystery, suspense, and characteristic atmosphere to play key roles throughout.

The production of “The Last Revelation” began in 1998. Due to the strain of developing Tomb Raider titles non-stop since 1996, and general fatigue with the character, the Core Design staff wrote the narrative to end with Lara’s death. While the same basic engine was used, it was extensively redesigned for better graphics and more intelligent enemy behavior.

The game was generally well-received, with many praising it as a return to form, but noting a lack of major innovation. Several critics felt the series was becoming stale. The Dreamcast port was generally criticized for its poor technical performance compared to other platforms. As of 2009, “The Last Revelation” was the fourth best-selling Tomb Raider title with over five million copies sold worldwide.

“Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation” is a thrilling action-adventure game that takes players on a journey of discovery and danger. With its engaging narrative, challenging puzzles, and immersive gameplay, it remains a memorable installment in the Tomb Raider series.

Characters

Lara Croft returns as the fearless explorer, equipped with new tools like the revolver and versatile bow. The game introduces various enemies and allies rooted in Egyptian mythology, enhancing the narrative and challenges Lara faces.

Gameplay

Gameplay in The Last Revelation focuses on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The innovative level design requires actions in one area to affect outcomes in another, supported by Lara’s enhanced weaponry for dynamic combat scenarios.

Conclusion

Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation remains a standout title in the franchise, admired for its ambitious approach to level design and narrative depth. It marks a high point in the series, blending traditional elements with innovative gameplay mechanics.