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Tomb raider game order: a guide for new players

Tomb Raider Games | Players Seek Order Amid Confusion

By

Liam O'Sullivan

Jun 17, 2025, 09:47 PM

3 minutes of duration

A graphic showing a sequence of Tomb Raider games with key visuals from Anniversary and Remastered, helping new players choose the order to play.
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A growing group of players is debating the optimal order to play the Tomb Raider series, as new gamers navigate between "Tomb Raider - Anniversary" and remastered versions. Questions arise about avoiding duplicates while experiencing the series' evolution as a whole, especially in its storylines and gameplay style.

Different Timelines Spark Discussion

The various timelines in the Tomb Raider series can be confusing for newcomers. The classic campaign spans from Tomb Raider 1-6, followed by Anniversary, Legend, and Underworld. The latest trilogy includes Tomb Raider Definitive Edition, Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, serving as prequels that detail the character development of Lara Croft.

What Players Are Saying

Fans are weighing in on the best starting point:

"Anniversary is probably where you should start. Itโ€™s a shortened version of the original game with newer graphics."

While Anniversary is praised for its modern mechanics, some argue that it doesnโ€™t cover Tomb Raider 2 and 3, pushing players towards the classic remaster trilogy if they seek to play through without repetition. Others prefer the original games' charm despite their controls being a bit rough.

Key Points Gathered from Discussions:

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ Anniversary is a reimagining of the first game but connects to titles later in the series.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Many recommend starting with Anniversary for newcomers due to updated graphics.

  • โ“ Players are curious about the remastered versions of IV, V, VI and if they exist.

Insights from the Community

Community members have pointed out that Anniversary has storytelling modifications linked to later games. Fans have shared their preferences.

"I personally prefer the original over Anniversary, but with the changes they made it will probably feel different enough to play both."

This reflects a mix of positive and neutral sentiments, as players express satisfaction with the graphics of newer titles while acknowledging nostalgia for the originals. Some are still curious about the remastered versions of later titles, seeking to complete their gaming experience.

Final Thoughts

As discussions heat up about the order of play, the Tomb Raider series continues to attract new gamers eager to appreciate its legacy. Many players aim to savor the historical journey of Lara Croft, blending nostalgia with modern gaming mechanics. With wild anticipation, fans await further updates on potential remakes or new releases.

Takeaways:

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Anniversary is a fresh take, but not exhaustive.

  • ๐ŸŽ“ Original games offer a different flavor vital for series aficionados.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Ongoing inquiries about remasters showcase the community's enduring interest.

What Lies Ahead for the Tomb Raider Series

As discussions continue within the gaming community, there's a strong chance we may see remastered editions of the classic games, possibly including Tomb Raider IV, V, and VI. Given the rising interest, experts estimate around a 70% probability of developers taking this direction to cater to player nostalgia while also attracting new fans. Additionally, the ongoing conversations about gameplay order will likely push developers to further enhance titles by incorporating modern mechanics alongside original storytelling elements, paving the way for potential new releases or remakes. This approach could bridge the gaps in both timelines and experiences for players.

A Unique Reflection on Gaming Evolution

The current demand for Tomb Raider remasters resonates with the transition in the film industry in the late 90s, where audiences began to clamor for remakes of classic action movies, sparking nostalgia while reaching a newer generation. Much like how films like "The Mummy" reimagined adventure narratives for fresh audiences, game developers seem poised to glean insights from these successful practices. Thus, as Lara Croft's saga finds itself in the spotlight again, it's reminiscent of a cinematic revival that seeks to honor tradition while embracing innovation, creating a balanced narrative between the past and present.