How Long Does It REALLY Take to Complete Tomb Raider?
So, you’re itching to explore ancient tombs, outsmart cunning traps, and unravel compelling mysteries alongside Lara Croft, but you’re wondering: How long does it take to complete Tomb Raider? The answer, like any good archaeological dig, requires a bit of excavation. It depends entirely on your play style. A speedrunner focused solely on the main story can breeze through a Tomb Raider game in a fraction of the time it takes a completionist meticulously scouring every nook and cranny for secrets.
In general:
- Main Story Only: Expect to spend anywhere from 11 to 18 hours focusing purely on the narrative backbone of most Tomb Raider games.
- Completionist Run (100%): If you’re a meticulous explorer aiming to unearth every collectible, complete every challenge tomb, and max out Lara’s skills, budget around 20 to 40 hours.
- Platinum Trophy/1000 Gamerscore: Trophy hunters should anticipate 35 to 50 hours for titles that have challenging achievements, especially those requiring multiple playthroughs or difficulty-specific feats.
Ultimately, the runtime varies widely between different titles in the franchise. Let’s dig deeper into some specific examples:
- Tomb Raider (2013): Main story takes around 11.5 hours. A 100% completion run can take approximately 21 hours.
- Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015): Expect 13.5 hours for the main objectives. A completionist playthrough will likely clock in at around 35 hours.
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018): For the main campaign, estimate around 13 hours. Achieving 100% can take upwards of 30 hours.
- Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft (1998): This classic title is considered one of the longest in the series, often requiring around 36 hours for a complete run.
- Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999): Expect around 17 hours for the main story, and up to 23.5 hours for a 100% completion.
These are just estimates, of course. Your personal mileage may vary depending on your skill level, difficulty setting, and willingness to consult online guides. So, grab your climbing axe, brush off your fedora, and prepare for an adventure that’s as short or as lengthy as you desire!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tomb Raider Completion Times
Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you through the Tomb Raider universe:
How long does it take to complete Tomb Raider 2013?
Focusing on the main objectives of Tomb Raider (2013) takes about 11½ hours. Aiming for 100% completion requires approximately 21 hours.
Which Tomb Raider game is the longest?
Based on various sources, Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft is generally considered the longest game in the series, often requiring around 36 hours to complete.
How long to beat Tomb Raider 2013?
A standard playthrough of Tomb Raider (2013) should take between 10-12 hours if you’re not rushing. Exploring and collecting items can extend the playtime to 20-30 hours.
Which Tomb Raider game is considered the hardest?
Tomb Raider III is frequently cited as the most challenging game in the franchise, due to its difficult puzzles, challenging enemies, and unforgiving level design.
How long does it take to complete Rise of the Tomb Raider?
Completing the main story in Rise of the Tomb Raider takes roughly 13½ hours. Reaching 100% completion usually requires around 35 hours.
In what order should I play the Tomb Raider games?
For the reboot trilogy, play them in this order: Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015), and Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018).
What happens when you achieve 100% completion in a Tomb Raider game?
In some Tomb Raider games, achieving 100% completion unlocks achievements/trophies and rewards such as special weapons (e.g., the Thunderclap Shotgun) or outfits.
Is Tomb Raider (2013) considered an easy game?
Tomb Raider (2013) offers an Easy Mode option from the start. However, combat can be challenging initially, especially before obtaining better weapons and skills.
How long does it take to get the platinum trophy in Tomb Raider?
Obtaining the platinum trophy in a Tomb Raider game typically takes 35-50 hours, depending on the difficulty of the trophies and your skill level.
What is considered the best weapon in a Tomb Raider game?
The best weapon varies from game to game, but in Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the Vicar Mark II is often cited as one of the most powerful and versatile weapons.
How many secret tombs are there in Tomb Raider (2013)?
There are seven optional tombs in Tomb Raider (2013). Completing them all unlocks an achievement/trophy and reveals parts of a treasure map.
Are all the Tomb Raider games connected in terms of storyline?
The original Tomb Raider games (Tomb Raider 1 through Angel of Darkness) are interconnected, but the “Legend” trilogy and the reboot trilogy (2013, Rise, Shadow) form their own separate continuities.
Does it matter which Tomb Raider game you play first?
If you’re interested in following the rebooted Lara Croft’s journey, it’s best to start with Tomb Raider (2013).
How long does it take to complete Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation?
Finishing the main objectives in Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation takes approximately 17 hours. Aiming for 100% completion will require around 23½ hours.
Is Tomb Raider an open world game?
Tomb Raider games are not fully open-world. They feature semi-open environments with interconnected maps that allow for exploration, but gameplay is generally linear and story-driven.
Dig Deeper: The Educational Value of Tomb Raider
Beyond the adrenaline-pumping action and captivating narratives, the Tomb Raider series subtly integrates elements of archaeology, history, and puzzle-solving, offering a potentially educational experience. Players are encouraged to observe details, decipher clues, and utilize critical thinking skills to overcome obstacles. Games like Tomb Raider can improve problem-solving skills and historical knowledge. For further insights into the educational benefits of gaming, you might find resources at the Games Learning Society website. This organization is dedicated to exploring the potential of games as powerful learning tools. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.