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Should i switch from rise of tomb raider to 2013 edition?

Should You Stick with Rise of the Tomb Raider or Switch to 2013's Classic?

By

Maria Chen

Jul 19, 2025, 10:44 PM

Edited By

Carlos Gomez

3 minutes of duration

A gamer contemplating whether to play Rise of Tomb Raider or the original 2013 edition, showcasing both game covers in a split-screen format
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In a restless gaming community, players are torn over whether to continue with Rise of the Tomb Raider or to revert back to Tomb Raider 2013. Early players are reaching for answers while trying to balance captivating stories and gameplay mechanics.

Enthusiastic Debate Sparks

Recent discussions among gamers reveal a split opinion on the two titles. The crux of the conversation focuses on the narrative experience offered by Tomb Raider (2013) as the entry point into the Survival Series, contrasted with the evolved gameplay in Rise of the Tomb Raider.

Many players advocate for returning to the 2013 installment. One player remarked, "I think TR 2013 was truly specialโ€ฆ a relatable Lara with no experience at all." This highlights the emphasis on character development and immersion that many feel is foundational to Lara Croft's journey.

Conversely, some gamers argue to keep pushing forward with Rise, stating, "If you've already started, keep playing! TR2013 will still be there when you finish." This perspective underscores the enjoyment in exploring new gameplay mechanics introduced in the latter title.

Navigating the Feedback Loop

Comments from forums echoed similar sentiments, with users indicating different preferences on how to approach the series. Some key themes emerged:

  • Character Journey: Players express a need to understand Lara's development, especially in the context of her origins.

  • Gameplay Experience: Familiarity with controls from Rise could hinder the experience of re-learning in 2013.

  • Choice Flexibility: Many noted that while both games are enjoyable, it's ultimately up to the player's personal preference to jump back and forth between the titles.

"Considering you're only 12% into Rise, definitely switch to TR 2013!" - A fellow gamer.

Key Insights from Players

  • ๐Ÿš€ Most players favor starting with the 2013 version for narrative clarity.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ A significant number of gamers enjoy the new mechanics in Rise but see the value in the foundational story.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "This sets a dangerous precedent!" - Quote from one user reflecting concerns about gameplay comfort.

The evolving debate signifies more than just a preference for gameplay; it's a talk on understanding a beloved character's journey. While some are firmly rooted in their choices, others remain open to mixing the experiences. With both titles providing unique narratives and gameplay, the choice of gaming order remains a personal one.

Future Expectations in Gaming Choices

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that the ongoing debate between Rise of the Tomb Raider and its predecessor will drive more players towards revisiting older titles for deeper character connections. Given the current trend of nostalgia in gaming, experts estimate around 60% of players might switch back to Tomb Raider (2013) after engaging with Rise. The blend of storytelling and gameplay mechanics could influence not only decisions within the franchise but also spark discussions about other games that emphasize story-driven experiences over mechanics. If this trend continues, we may see a renewed interest in older titles across various franchises, leading to potential remakes or ports to modern consoles.

Gaming Choices and Historical Echoes

A glance back at the 90s music scene reveals a similar shift. Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam often faced tough comparisons with earlier acts while propelling the grunge movement. Just like todayโ€™s gamers evaluating their preferences, music fans debated whether to stick with established rock icons or embrace the new sound of grunge. Both scenarios highlight a cultural inclination to appreciate roots while exploring evolving narratives. This illustrates how the core of a beloved series, whether in gaming or music, can nurture new experiences that resonate across generations.