Tomb Raider: Legend
Sep 22, 2011 15 years ago
Tomb Raider: Legend is the seventh major game in the Tomb Raider series, now for the first time developed by Crystal Dynamics, along with the original character designer of the game's protagonist, Lara Croft. It serves as a reboot of the franchise, with a new incarnation of Lara Croft. The typical third-person action-adventure exploring is still present, and Lara can move more freely because specific jumps no longer limit her. As players travel through rough environments, they will need to run, dive, swim, climb on poles, ladders, and roofs, use zip lines, shimmy, and vault, with acrobatic actions such as somersaults and flips. Players need to cross difficult terrain, solve puzzles to advance or open up new areas, and engage in combat.
What it’s like
Tomb Raider: Legend redefines the franchise as a polished, cinematic action-adventure that prioritizes fluid movement and environmental interaction over complex narrative depth. The experience feels like a high-budget summer blockbuster, offering a streamlined yet satisfying loop of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Lara’s traversal is exceptionally smooth, allowing for seamless transitions between climbing, swimming, and shooting without the rigid checkpoint limitations of earlier entries. While the story introduces a personal origin myth with emotional beats, it serves primarily as a vehicle for the spectacle rather than a deep literary endeavor. The puzzles are accessible but can feel simplistic once their logic is understood, leaning more toward clarity than obscurity. Visually and audibly, the game delivers a rich, atmospheric world filled with ancient tombs and exotic locales, supported by dynamic animations that bring Lara to life. It is a confident reboot that focuses on making every moment feel weighty and responsive.
Strong in Gameplay / MechanicsAtmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicCharactersCombatPacingPolish / PerformanceStory / NarrativeVisuals / Art
Keep in mind The puzzle design is often criticized for being overly simplistic or transparent once the underlying mechanics are grasped, lacking the intricate complexity of classic entries. Additionally, the linear structure limits true exploration, making it more of a guided rollercoaster than an open sandbox.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from gamesradar.com, trustedreviews.com, metacritic.com, youtube.com, gamespot.com.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox 360 | Worldwide | Full release | Apr 13, 200620 years ago |
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 29, 200719 years ago |
| PlayStation 3 | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 22, 201115 years ago |
| OnLive Game System | Worldwide | Full release | Sep 22, 201115 years ago |
