What order should I play Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition?

What Order Should I Play Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition?

The Tomb Raider franchise has been around for decades, with numerous games and adaptations. With the release of the Definitive Edition, it can be confusing to determine the best order to play the games. In this article, we’ll break down the series and provide guidance on the optimal play order.

The Original Saga

The original Tomb Raider series, which consists of:

1. Tomb Raider (1996)
2. Tomb Raider II (1997)
3. Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft (1998)
4. Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999)
5. Tomb Raider: Chronicles (2000)
6. Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness (2003)

This series follows the story of Lara Croft, a renowned archaeologist and adventurer. While the games are standalone, they share a common narrative thread.

The Survivor Trilogy

The Survivor Trilogy, which includes:

1. Tomb Raider (2013)
2. Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015)
3. Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018)

This trilogy reimagines Lara’s story, focusing on her growth as a character and her encounters with various mythological creatures.

The Definitive Edition

The Definitive Edition combines the best elements of the Survivor Trilogy with improved graphics and additional content. This version is the perfect starting point for new players.

Play Order Recommendations

Here are some play order recommendations:

• Original Saga: If you’re a fan of the classic games, play the original series in the order listed above. This will provide the best experience for those familiar with the series.
• Survivor Trilogy: For a more modern take, play the Survivor Trilogy in the order listed above. This will give you a cohesive story arc and allow you to follow Lara’s growth as a character.
• Definitive Edition: If you’re new to the series or want the best of both worlds, start with the Definitive Edition. This will provide an immersive experience with improved graphics and additional content.

Important Notes

• Chronological Order: If you want to play the series in chronological order, the correct order is:
  • Tomb Raider (1996)
  • Tomb Raider II (1997)
  • Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft (1998)
  • Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999)
  • Tomb Raider: Chronicles (2000)
  • Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness (2003)
  • Tomb Raider (2013)
  • Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015)
  • Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018)
• Story Discontinuity: The Survivor Trilogy is a reboot of the series, so it doesn’t directly follow the original saga. However, the games do share some common elements and themes.
• Graphics and Gameplay: The Definitive Edition features improved graphics and gameplay compared to the original games.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best order to play Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition depends on your personal preference and familiarity with the series. Whether you’re a fan of the classic games or want a more modern take, the Definitive Edition is the perfect starting point. With its improved graphics and additional content, you’ll be able to experience the best of both worlds.