Rise of the Tomb Raider

My review is belated because I'm a ps4 owner and started playing this masterpiece just 2 days ago. Now I'm typing this review as the end credits are rolling. First things first, it's a masterpiece. Frankly speaking I wasn't a fan of the series, until a played the previous entry in 2013 and instantly fell in love with the character. I was so much impressed that even when at one point the Rise of the Tomb Raider was announced as Xbox exclusive, I had already started thinking of buying the console, because Lara had left me breathless. Then some time later I learned that they will actually release the ps4 version and sighed in relief. Being nearly a veteran gamer, this game affected me so deep I must say my heart lies with Lara Croft now. A unique gaming experience that should not be missed. If the next installment is released on Xbox only, I will definitely get that console this time.

If I were to make a list of the best games in the entire Tomb Raider franchise since the first game in 1996, this one would undoubtedly make it into the top 3. What a wonderful game. It has all the modernity of the new line of the franchise added to the magic of puzzles and complex maps from the first games. For me, "Tomb Raider 2" (1997), "Tomb Raider Anniversary" (2007 remake of the original 1996 game) and this "Rise of The Tomb Raider" are the top marks of this wonderful franchise. If you love Lara Croft, puzzles and exploration at the highest level, don't miss this title.

This game is amazing and deserves all the love. They took the combat, stakes, tomb raiding, and traversal from the first game and turned it up to 11. The story picks up and you are introduced to more of Lara's past, she gets even more development here which is awesome to see. This game also has more travel in it, instead of being in one place (like the island from the first game) you go to several locations which was also a great expansion.

The tombs in this game are so fun, way bigger and better than the last game, with much harder puzzles that are absolutely worth your time as they give you good loot.

My only critique is that if you are looking for a game that is as focused as the first, this one opens up quite a bit and does not feel as zoned in on the cinematic story as the first. Don't get me wrong, the story is great and cinematic, but there is more to be distracted by in this game than the last. If you like a more open world this won't bug you, but I have open world fatigue and loved how focused the experience was in the original game. I think the first game is better over all to me for that reason.

Pros:

• Side characters are more developed as compared to the previous game (including better villains)
• Diverse gameplay
• Cool cinematic action set pieces
• Amazing graphics, voice acting, and animation
• More interesting environments and level design
• Good variety of weapons and gadgets
• Great puzzles and better tombs

Cons:

• Storyline isn't as compelling as the story from the previous game
• Can feel like abit of a retread of the first game
• Gameplay can be abit clunky

Verdict: Overall, a solid sequel that improves in many elements, but imo the story is not as compelling as Lara's origin story within the first game.

8/10

This game is a really fun experience. The game is a thrilling action adventure that delivers a good time. I love the setting. It is a good looking game. I enjoy the combat. Lara is awesome in it. It is a good one for Tomb Raider fans. It was a satisfying adventure with Lara Croft. I like the locations in the game. They are interesting to explore and find secrets in them. The puzzles are fun. Taking down the bad guys is always fun. It is a sequel that is really solid entertainment. Rise Of The Tomb Raider is a game you should buy. You will enjoy it. There is a lot to like in this action adventure.