Tomb Raider and Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition – A Deep Dive
Yes, Tomb Raider and Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition are fundamentally the same game. The Definitive Edition is essentially a remastered and enhanced version of the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot. Think of it as the director’s cut, offering a visually and content-rich experience.
Unveiling the Definitive Edition: What Makes It Special?
When Crystal Dynamics decided to revisit their 2013 reboot, they aimed to give fans the ultimate Tomb Raider experience. This meant more than just slapping on a new coat of paint. The Definitive Edition represents a significant upgrade, encompassing several key areas:
- Enhanced Graphics: The most immediately noticeable difference is the graphical overhaul. Textures are sharper, character models are more detailed (Lara’s realistically rendered hair being a prime example), and the lighting effects create a far more immersive and atmospheric world. The jump in visual fidelity is substantial, leveraging the capabilities of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
- All DLC Included: The Definitive Edition bundles together all previously released downloadable content (DLC). This includes additional tombs to raid, outfits for Lara to wear, and weapons to wield. For players who missed out on the DLC the first time around, this provides a complete package.
- Bonus Content: Beyond the DLC, the Definitive Edition often included digital extras like a digital comic, a mini-art book, and behind-the-scenes documentaries. These add layers of context and appreciation to the game’s development.
In essence, the Definitive Edition isn’t a new game but the definitive way to experience the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot. It enhances every aspect of the original, creating a more complete and immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly does “remastered” mean in this context?
Remastered typically implies enhancements to the existing game, such as improved graphics, textures, lighting, and audio. It’s not a complete remake from the ground up, but rather a refinement of the original game’s assets. In the case of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition, it means a significant graphical leap and the inclusion of all DLC.
2. If I own the original Tomb Raider, is it worth getting the Definitive Edition?
If you value visual enhancements and want to experience all the additional content, then yes, the Definitive Edition is worth it. The graphical improvements are substantial, and the bundled DLC adds several hours of gameplay. However, if you’re content with the original’s visuals and have already played the DLC, the upgrade might not be as compelling.
3. Is Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition available on PC?
No, Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition was specifically released for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One consoles. PC players can, however, play the original Tomb Raider (2013) with similar (or even better, depending on their hardware) graphical settings.
4. Does the Definitive Edition change the story or gameplay mechanics?
The core story and gameplay mechanics remain unchanged. The Definitive Edition enhances the existing experience but doesn’t fundamentally alter the narrative or how you control Lara. Think of it as polishing the gameplay elements without rewriting the entire story.
5. Is Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition also a remaster?
Similar to Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition, Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is the complete package, including the base game and all DLC. It doesn’t feature the same level of graphical overhaul as the Tomb Raider Definitive Edition, as Shadow was already a visually impressive game when it launched. Its “Definitive” status comes from having all the additional content.
6. Should I play the Tomb Raider trilogy in order?
Absolutely. The Tomb Raider reboot trilogy (Tomb Raider, Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider) tells a continuous story of Lara’s evolution. Playing them in order allows you to witness her character development and understand the overarching narrative.
7. What’s the connection between the Tomb Raider reboot trilogy and the original games?
The reboot trilogy reimagines Lara’s origin story, presenting a younger, more vulnerable version of the character. While the core elements of Tomb Raider are present (exploration, puzzles, action), the reboot establishes its own distinct continuity, separate from the original games. They are not directly connected.
8. Which Tomb Raider game is considered the best?
This is subjective, but many fans consider Rise of the Tomb Raider to be the strongest entry in the reboot trilogy. It strikes a great balance between exploration, puzzles, and combat, and features stunning environments. However, the original Tomb Raider (2013) holds a special place for reinventing the series and introducing a new generation to Lara Croft.
9. Is Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition open world?
The Tomb Raider games, including the Definitive Edition, feature a semi-open world design. They offer large, interconnected areas to explore, but they aren’t fully open-world in the same way as games like Grand Theft Auto. The focus is on exploration within defined regions, rather than complete freedom.
10. Does the Definitive Edition add any new puzzles or tombs?
The new puzzles and tombs are from all DLC’s included in the definitive edition only. The base game remains the same, but the DLC content adds significant additional gameplay in the form of new tombs and challenges.
11. What makes the Tomb Raider reboot trilogy so popular?
The reboot trilogy successfully modernized the Tomb Raider formula, creating a compelling character arc for Lara Croft. The blend of action, exploration, and puzzles resonated with players, and the stunning visuals brought the environments to life.
12. Are there any other differences between the original Tomb Raider and the Definitive Edition, besides graphics and DLC?
Minor tweaks and improvements were made to gameplay mechanics and animations, although these are generally subtle. The focus was primarily on visual enhancement and content inclusion.
13. Is the Definitive Edition harder than the original Tomb Raider?
The difficulty level is the same. The Definitive Edition doesn’t introduce any new challenges in terms of difficulty. The original difficulty levels are retained.
14. Will there be more Tomb Raider games in the future?
Yes! A new Tomb Raider game developed by Crystal Dynamics and powered by Unreal Engine 5 has been announced. While details are scarce, it promises to continue Lara Croft’s adventures with cutting-edge technology.
15. Where can I learn more about game development and the impact of games on learning?
To delve deeper into the world of game development and its educational applications, explore resources provided by organizations like the Games Learning Society. The Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org is a fantastic resource. Understanding how games are designed and how they can be used for learning can offer valuable insights into appreciating the Tomb Raider series and its evolution.
In conclusion, Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is the superior way to experience the 2013 reboot. It enhances every aspect of the original, offering a more visually stunning and content-rich adventure for Lara Croft fans.