Do I Need to Play Tomb Raider Before Shadow of the Tomb Raider?
To answer the question directly, while it is not strictly necessary to play Tomb Raider before Shadow of the Tomb Raider, playing the games in order will provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their development, especially Lara Croft‘s transformation. The Survivor Trilogy, which includes Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, offers a cohesive narrative arc that explores Lara’s growth from a young woman to a seasoned adventurer.
Understanding the Connection Between the Games
The connection between Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider lies in the character development and the overarching story of the Survivor Trilogy. Each game builds upon the previous one, with Tomb Raider (2013) introducing Lara Croft and her initial adventures, Rise of the Tomb Raider exploring her growth as a survivor and an adventurer, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider concluding her transformation into the Tomb Raider.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Order Should I Play the Tomb Raider Games?
The recommended order is Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider, and then Shadow of the Tomb Raider to follow the story and character development cohesively.
2. Are All Tomb Raider Games Connected?
The original Tomb Raider games are connected, but the Legend trilogy and the recent TR trilogy are separate, with the Survivor Trilogy being a reboot of the series.
3. Does Tomb Raider Order Matter?
While the order doesn’t matter for understanding each game’s standalone story, playing them in sequence provides a better understanding of character development and relationships.
4. How Many Hours is the Main Story of Shadow of the Tomb Raider?
The main story is approximately 12½ hours long, with 100% completion requiring around 38 hours.
5. What is Required to Play Shadow of the Tomb Raider?
The game requires Windows 10 64-bit, a processor like Intel Core i7 4770K or AMD Ryzen 5 1600, 16 GB RAM, and a graphics card such as Nvidia GTX 1060 6GB or AMD Radeon RX 480, 8GB.
6. Is Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider Connected?
They are connected as part of the Survivor Trilogy, but each game has a standalone story with Lara Croft‘s character development being the main link.
7. Is Tomb Raider Free Forever?
Tomb Raider (2013) was available for free on the Epic Games Store for a limited time, and if claimed, it is kept forever.
8. Is Shadow of the Tomb Raider Worth It?
The game offers beautiful visuals, fantastic puzzles, and true adventuring experiences, making it worth playing, despite some criticisms.
9. Is Shadow of the Tomb Raider a Sequel?
Yes, it is the sequel to Rise of the Tomb Raider and the final installment in the Survivor Trilogy.
10. What is the Longest Tomb Raider Game?
Tomb Raider 3 is considered one of the longest games in the series, with other lengthy games including Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation and Rise of the Tomb Raider.
11. Is Shadow of Tomb Raider Hard?
The game features some of the toughest puzzles in the franchise, but with persistence and the right strategies, they can be overcome.
12. Is Shadow of the Tomb Raider the End?
It concludes the Survivor Trilogy and Lara Croft‘s journey in this reboot series, setting the stage for future games.
13. How Many Endings Does Tomb Raider Have?
There are two endings, an official one and an unofficial one that can be accessed by not having the Day 1 patch installed.
14. Do I Need to Play the Other Tomb Raider Before Rise of the Tomb Raider?
No, each game in the Survivor Trilogy is designed to be somewhat standalone, but playing them in order enhances the overall experience.
15. Is Tomb Raider a AAA Game?
Yes, the Tomb Raider series, especially the AAA Tomb Raider reboot trilogy, has achieved significant success and is considered a major franchise in the gaming industry.