Is Tomb Raider a reboot?

Is Tomb Raider a Reboot?

The Tomb Raider franchise has undergone significant changes over the years, with the most recent iteration being a reboot of the series. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Tomb Raider a reboot and what that means for fans of the series.

What is a Reboot?

Before we dive into the specifics of Tomb Raider, let’s define what a reboot is. A reboot is a re-imagining of a franchise or series, often with new characters, storylines, and gameplay mechanics. Reboots can be a way to revitalize a series that has become stale or to introduce the franchise to a new audience.

The 2013 Tomb Raider Game

The 2013 Tomb Raider game, developed by Crystal Dynamics and published by Square Enix, is considered a reboot of the franchise. This game marked a significant departure from the previous games in the series, which were more action-oriented and focused on exploration.

New Lara Croft

The 2013 game introduced a new, younger Lara Croft, played by Camilla Luddington. This new Lara was more vulnerable and relatable, with a focus on her emotional journey and character development. This reboot aimed to humanize Lara and make her a more complex and interesting character.

New Storyline

The 2013 game also introduced a new storyline, which deviated from the previous games. The game’s narrative follows Lara as she becomes the Tomb Raider, exploring ancient ruins and uncovering the secrets of her father’s disappearance. The game’s story is more focused on character development and emotional resonance, rather than simply running and gunning.

New Gameplay Mechanics

The 2013 game also introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as a more agile and responsive Lara, and a greater emphasis on exploration and puzzle-solving. These changes aimed to make the game more engaging and immersive, and to appeal to a wider audience.

Rise of the Tomb Raider

The 2015 game, Rise of the Tomb Raider, was the sequel to the 2013 game and continued the rebooted series. This game introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the addition of supernatural elements and a greater emphasis on exploration. The game’s storyline followed Lara as she uncovered the secrets of her family’s past and battled against the forces of evil.

Shadow of the Tomb Raider

The 2018 game, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, was the final installment in the rebooted trilogy. This game introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as a greater emphasis on combat and stealth, and a more cinematic experience. The game’s storyline followed Lara as she uncovered the secrets of the Maya civilization and battled against the forces of evil.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2013 Tomb Raider game was a reboot of the franchise, introducing a new Lara Croft, new storyline, and new gameplay mechanics. The subsequent games, Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, continued the rebooted series, introducing new gameplay mechanics and a more cinematic experience.