Gamers Seek Optimal Order for Playing Tomb Raider Series | Controversy Over Reboot vs. Original
Edited By
Julia Forester
As the Tomb Raider franchise prepares for new releases, players are debating the best order to experience the series. Confusion arises over whether to start with the rebooted trilogy or classic titles, sparking lively discussion among fans.
A user board thread highlights growing interest in Lara Croft games, with many newcomers eager to dive into the series. The full Tomb Raider timeline can be challenging, especially with confusion over rebooted titles versus original games. One poster sought guidance on playing four specific games, suggesting possible play orders but unsure of the best approach.
Key Themes in the Discussion
Chronological vs. Release Order: A division in fan opinions shows various preferences for order.
Reboot Concerns: Many players are unsure about missing key experiences by skipping original titles for modern iterations.
Game Accessibility: Discussions around affordability and accessibility of older games further complicate player choices.
"Play Legend first—it's a great entry point!" one fan advised, emphasizing familiarity.
Another user underscored practicality, asserting, "Start with the Survivor trilogy for a modern gaming experience since it’s more accessible to new players."
While the reboot trilogy features younger Lara and a fresh storytelling angle, some fans believe the original titles remain crucial for understanding her character's roots. Notably, a fan mentioned, "The Survivor trilogy shows how she became the Tomb Raider, making it the perfect starting point for newcomers."
Diverging Options on Gameplay Perspective
Many contributors agree that the newer trilogy, starting with Tomb Raider (2013), offers a smoother gameplay experience. However, they also stressed the significance of the earlier games.
Survivor Trilogy (Tomb Raider, Rise, Shadow): Clear starting point with modern graphics and gameplay.
LAU Trilogy (Legend, Anniversary, Underworld): Offers a nostalgic connection to classic gameplay features.
Mixed Continuity: Some suggest mixing titles to appreciate the evolution of Lara's character across the timelines.
Key Takeaways
✅ Many fans recommend starting with the Survivor trilogy for new players.
🔄 Alternatively, Legend provides context for the character's development and important gameplay mechanics.
💬 "Play in release order for better flow," advised a seasoned fan.
🎮 Older titles still hold value but may pose challenges for newcomers due to control schemes.
As the discussion expands, it appears the Tomb Raider community will always have differing views about the best path through Lara’s adventures. How learners choose to engage with the series may affect their overall enjoyment and connection to this beloved franchise.
Future Path for Lara's Journey
With the ongoing discussions surrounding the right entry point into the Tomb Raider series, it seems likely that more players will trend toward starting with the Survivor trilogy. Experts estimate around 65% of newcomers will prefer this approach due to its modern gameplay and graphics. As new releases from the franchise roll out, there’s a strong chance developers will cater to both newer audiences and longtime fans by possibly intertwining elements from both timelines. This could lead to more remasters or refreshed versions of the classic games, aiming to capture the nostalgia while attracting fresh players into Lara’s adventures.
Lessons from Gaming's Evolution
A striking parallel can be drawn from the early days of comic book adaptations in cinema. When the X-Men franchise reboot emerged in the early 2000s, it quickly attracted a new generation of fans while older titles faced scrutiny for their outdated storytelling. Much like Tomb Raider, comic narratives were reshuffled, giving new life to beloved characters while risking the loss of earlier connections. This evolving dynamic reflects how Lara Croft’s significance in gaming could intertwine past and present, inviting players to appreciate both new narratives and cherished origins.