Review: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered (Switch) – The Best Way To Rediscover A Gaming Idol
The Tomb Raider franchise has undeniably reached iconic status, and now fans can rediscover the original trilogy with the newly remastered Tomb Raider I-III for the Nintendo Switch. Developer Aspyr has given these classic titles a much-needed upgrade, enhancing the visuals and introducing a modern control scheme for a more accessible gameplay experience.
One of the most noticeable changes is the visual upgrade. Character models, environmental assets, textures, lighting, and menu screens have all been given a touch-up, resulting in a more polished and visually appealing game. The improved frame rate of 60fps also adds to the overall smoothness and playability of the trilogy.
While the visual enhancements are mostly successful, there are instances where the revamped lighting can make certain areas appear darker or brighter than in the original releases, which can make navigation a bit trickier than necessary.
In terms of gameplay, Tomb Raider I-III focuses on exploration and platforming, rather than flashy shootouts. Navigating the environment is a key challenge in these games, but the remastered version offers some options to make things easier. Players can now freely explore Lara’s mansion home in each game through the main menu, providing a leisurely break from the main quests. Additionally, the modern control scheme replaces the old ‘tank’ controls with complete 360-degree movement, making it more intuitive for newcomers.
The trilogy offers a substantial amount of content, with three full games and three additional expansions included. Each title can take around 10-15 hours to complete, providing a reasonable commitment for players. However, it’s worth noting that there is no autosave feature, so manual saving is necessary, making it easy to lose progress if not careful. The menu system can be convoluted at times, adding to the frustration.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered is a successful revitalization of the classic titles. It not only enhances the visuals but also makes the controls more accessible to newcomers. For those curious about Lara Croft’s origins in gaming, this collection offers the best way to experience the original trilogy on the Nintendo Switch.
Analyst comment
Positive news: “Review: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered (Switch) – The Best Way To Rediscover A Gaming Idol”
Short analysis: The remastered Tomb Raider I-III for Nintendo Switch offers enhanced visuals, improved frame rate, and a modern control scheme for a more accessible gameplay experience. Despite minor drawbacks, it revitalizes the classic titles and provides the best way to experience the original trilogy on the Switch. Positive impact on the market as it is likely to attract fans and newcomers to the Tomb Raider franchise, increasing sales of the remastered version.
