Can I Play Tomb Raider 2013 First?
The Tomb Raider reboot trilogy, consisting of Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, has received widespread acclaim for its engaging storytelling, improved gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals. But, if you’re interested in playing the series in chronological order, you may be wondering if you can start with the 2013 game. In this article, we’ll answer this question and provide insight into the connections between the games in the reboot trilogy.
Direct Answer
Yes, you can play Tomb Raider 2013 first. The game sets the stage for Lara Croft’s journey, exploring her transformation from an untested adventurer to a hardened survivor. While Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider offer more refined gameplay and plotlines, the 2013 game provides a solid foundation for the series.
The Reboot Trilogy: A Brief Overview
Before diving into the game’s story, let’s take a brief look at the reboot trilogy’s development:
- Tomb Raider (2013): The first game in the reboot trilogy, introducing Lara Croft as a young and inexperienced explorer on her first expedition to a mythical island.
- Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015): The second installment follows Lara as she faces her past and uncovers her connection to the mythical powers of the ancient civilization she’s exploring.
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018): The final game in the trilogy sees Lara dealing with the consequences of her past actions and facing off against a powerful and ruthless cult.
Story and Connections
While each game offers a standalone story, they are connected by the main character, Lara Croft, and her experiences throughout the trilogy. Shadow of the Tomb Raider, in particular, draws heavily from the events of the previous two games, so it’s recommended to play them in order to appreciate the full story.
Key Connections:
• Lara Croft’s Character Development: Each game in the trilogy focuses on Lara’s growth and maturation as a character, from her early struggles as a novice explorer to her transformation into a hardened, battle-tested adventurer.
• Plot Threads and Plot Twists: The reboot trilogy features several plot threads and twists that connect the games, including Lara’s relationships with key characters and the consequences of her actions.
• Mythology and Lore: The games draw from the Tomb Raider franchise’s rich mythology and lore, with nods to previous games and character appearances.
Gaming Experience
While the Tomb Raider reboot trilogy offers some changes in gameplay mechanics, the core experience remains relatively consistent across the games:
• Exploration: Players will still enjoy the thrill of exploring vast, detailed environments, uncovering secrets, and overcoming puzzles.
• Combat and Platforming: The trilogy features improved combat and platforming mechanics, allowing players to engage in more challenging and dynamic battles and climbs.
• Stealth and Strategy: Stealth elements and strategic thinking remain important components of the gameplay, particularly in Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, playing Tomb Raider 2013 first is a viable option, as it provides a solid foundation for Lara Croft’s character and the series’ overall narrative. While the games share some connections, each title offers a standalone story with its own unique elements, so you can enjoy the trilogy without worrying about spoilers.
Recommendation
We recommend playing the trilogy in the following order:
- Tomb Raider (2013)
- Rise of the Tomb Raider
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider
By playing the games in order, you’ll be able to appreciate the character development, plot twists, and lore connections that make the Tomb Raider reboot trilogy so compelling.
Additional Resources
For more information on the Tomb Raider reboot trilogy, feel free to explore the links below:
Final Thoughts
The Tomb Raider reboot trilogy offers an engaging and action-packed gaming experience, with a strong focus on storytelling and character development. Playing Tomb Raider 2013 first is a great starting point, and we’re confident that you’ll enjoy the journey as Lara Croft navigates the highs and lows of her adventure.