The Tomb Raider franchise lives on! Crystal Dynamics and Square Enix are rewriting the tried and true Tomb Raider formula in favor of a more realistic, survival-based experience. The upcoming action-adventure game is a standalone within the series, exploring the foundation of its protagonist, Lara Croft rather than building upon the narrative of any particular title. The cultural icon who revolutionized the action genre, who made it possible for a female hero to exist, was once a fearful young woman fighting for her life on an island inhabited by fearsome animals, people, and worse. Interesting.
Growing up I was a Nintendo kid, my first console was the NES and my favorite of all time is the N64. I can whistle every Mario song and I once contemplated getting a Triforce tattoo. Since then my gaming interests have diversified quite a bit but I always have a special spot for the Nintendo classics. Due to my gamer history, I’m someone who has never been a fan of the Tomb Raider series, an individual who has never embarked on any of the 10 (including the newest game) titles in the past. In a strange inner conflict, I’m finding that I might be willing to give the newest installment a shot.
Oh Lara, your inappropriate adventuring outfit just doesn’t cut it for me.
Why? A fresh take on the series seems more appealing than a chick with giant boobs and infinite pistol ammo, just saying. I’m hoping that the darker, grittier atmosphere will be a welcomed addition into Lara Croft saga with survival maintaining the core principle. The whole point in the reimagining of the franchise is to show Lara Croft’s progression in response to adversity, and that may very well be a trip I’d be willing to go on.
What are your impressions of the new Tomb Raider video game? Do you think fans of the franchise will appreciate the changes or have the developers bitten off more than they can chew? I myself have high hopes for the game, but my optimism does not mean I’m willing to shell out $65 on launch day.
Tomb Raider will be released on March 5th, 2013.
Editor’s Note: Lara Croft is not the only character the pave the way for female video game protagonists, Samus is my personal favorite. I do have to ask though, why is Lara getting beaten up SOOOO badly in this game?
ABOUT Taylor
Taylor Stein is a recent college graduate and freelance games writer. You can find her work on Destructoid, G4, Bitmob, 1UP, Pure Nintendo, Honest Gamers, and more. Beyond the arena of geekdom. she is a fitness freak and lover of sushi. Don't judge this book by its cover, let's talk games! Google
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