Should I Play Tomb Raider 2013 First?
The Tomb Raider series has undergone a significant reboot with the release of the 2013 game, and it has since become a staple in the action-adventure genre. The question that arises is whether it’s necessary to play the 2013 game first in order to fully appreciate the subsequent games in the series. In this article, we’ll explore the connections between the games and provide you with a definitive answer to this question.
Connections between the Games
The 2013 Tomb Raider game serves as a reboot of the series, introducing a younger Lara Croft as she navigates her first adventure. The game sets the stage for the events that unfold in Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015) and Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018). These games continue to follow Lara’s journey as she uncovers ancient secrets and faces off against formidable enemies.
Playing Tomb Raider 2013 First: A Must-Do or Not?
While the subsequent games do provide some background information, playing the 2013 game first is still recommended to fully understand the character development and plot progression. Here’s why:
- Character Development: The 2013 game explores Lara’s transformation from an amateur explorer to a skilled Tomb Raider. This development is crucial to understanding her motivations and actions in the subsequent games.
- Plot Connection: The events of the 2013 game lay the groundwork for the storylines in Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. Playing the 2013 game first provides a deeper understanding of the series’ overall narrative.
- Tone and Atmosphere: The 2013 game sets the tone for the series, introducing a darker and more atmospheric approach to the gameplay. This tone is maintained throughout the subsequent games, and playing the 2013 game first helps to establish the sense of foreboding and danger.
Alternatives: Playing Out of Order
While playing the games in order is recommended, it’s not the only way to experience the series. If you’re new to the Tomb Raider franchise, you can still play the games out of order and still enjoy the series. Here’s how:
- Rise of the Tomb Raider: This game serves as a standalone story, with some background information provided through dialogue and item descriptions. You can play this game without prior knowledge of the series, but keep in mind that you’ll miss out on the character development and plot progression established in the 2013 game.
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: This game also provides some background information, but it’s more dependent on the events of the previous games. You can still play this game without prior knowledge, but you’ll likely feel lost without understanding the character motivations and plot progression.
In Conclusion
While it’s not necessary to play Tomb Raider 2013 first, it’s still highly recommended to get the most out of the series. The game provides a deeper understanding of Lara’s character development, plot progression, and tone, which are essential to enjoying the subsequent games. If you’re new to the series, you can still play the games out of order, but keep in mind that you’ll miss out on some of the richness and depth of the narrative.
Table: Games in the Tomb Raider Series
| Game | Release Year | Recommended Play Order |
|---|---|---|
| Tomb Raider (2013) | 2013 | First |
| Rise of the Tomb Raider | 2015 | After Tomb Raider (2013) |
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | 2018 | After Rise of the Tomb Raider |
By playing the games in order, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the series and experience the character development, plot progression, and tone that the developers intended. However, if you’re short on time or new to the series, you can still enjoy the games out of order and still appreciate the overall narrative.