Do you have to play Shadow of the Tomb Raider in order?

Do You Have to Play Shadow of the Tomb Raider in Order?

If you’re considering diving into the world of Tomb Raider, you might be wondering if you need to play the previous games in the series to fully appreciate the experience. The answer is a resounding no. While the Tomb Raider series does have a connected storyline, each game can be played as a standalone adventure.

A Brief Overview of the Tomb Raider Series

The Tomb Raider series has undergone a significant reboot in recent years, with the 2013 game marking a fresh start for the franchise. The series has since divided into two distinct trilogies: the Survivor Trilogy (2013, 2015, and 2018) and the upcoming Reboot Trilogy. Each trilogy has its own connected storyline, but you can play each game individually without prior knowledge of the series.

The Storyline of Shadow of the Tomb Raider

Shadow of the Tomb Raider is the final installment of the Survivor Trilogy, concluding the story of Lara Croft. The game takes place several years after the events of Rise of the Tomb Raider and follows Lara as she searches for a powerful artifact that could save the world from destruction. While the game’s storyline is closely tied to the previous games, it’s designed to be accessible to new players.

Key Connections between Games

While Shadow of the Tomb Raider can be played as a standalone game, there are some key connections between the games in the Survivor Trilogy:

• Shared Characters: Key characters from the previous games, such as Jonah Maynard and Dr. Zahi, appear in Shadow of the Tomb Raider, adding depth to the storyline.
• Continued Themes: The themes of survival, exploration, and discovery that were introduced in the previous games are carried forward in Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
• In-Game References: Players can find references to the previous games throughout Shadow of the Tomb Raider, including nods to locations and characters.

Tips for New Players

If you’re new to the series, here are some tips to help you get the most out of Shadow of the Tomb Raider:

• Start with the Original Tomb Raider (2013): While not essential, playing the original game can provide a deeper understanding of Lara’s character development and the series’ lore.
• Watch Cutscenes: Shadow of the Tomb Raider’s cutscenes provide valuable context for the game’s story and characters. Watching them will help you stay engaged with the narrative.
• Explore the Environment: The game’s world is rich in secrets and hidden areas. Exploring the environment will help you discover new skills, abilities, and story moments.

System Requirements

If you’re considering purchasing Shadow of the Tomb Raider, make sure your system meets the minimum requirements:

In conclusion, while Shadow of the Tomb Raider is the final installment of the Survivor Trilogy, it can be played as a standalone game. With its engaging storyline, addictive gameplay, and rich environment, Shadow of the Tomb Raider is an excellent starting point for new players and a satisfying conclusion for longtime fans of the series.