Rise of the Tomb Raider is still peak Lara Croft, and it’s on Game Pass

Console Games, PC Games

Crystal Dynamics’ Take on Lara Croft

More than ten years after its initial release, Crystal Dynamics’ reimagining of Lara Croft still stands strong. The 2013 game, Tomb Raider, showcased a more emotionally complex and self-aware Lara, setting the stage for future sequels.

While 2018’s Shadow of the Tomb Raider has its own strengths, many still consider 2015’s Rise of the Tomb Raider to be the most captivating version of Lara Croft due to its emphasis on vulnerability.


Lara Croft standing in a cavernous ruin in Rise of the Tomb Raider.
Image: Crystal Dynamics/Square Enix

Lara’s Struggle Continues

Following the events of the first game, Lara is still grappling with the trauma from her time on the island of Yamatai and her father’s recent disappearance. Her journey to find her father and restore her family’s legacy leads her to the frigid peaks of Siberia and into the path of Trinity, an organization with a pseudo-religious goal of world domination. This places Lara in the unique position to foil their plot, but also burdens her with a truth that no one else will believe.

Throughout her journey, Lara struggles with the consequences of her choices and the deaths of those close to her, making her approach a more resourceful and cunning one in an unforgiving environment.


Lara Croft in a red winter jacket walking up the snowy steps of a temple in Rise of the Tomb Raider.
Image: Crystal Dynamics/Square Enix

Evolving Lara’s Character

Rise of the Tomb Raider showcases Lara as a protagonist who is becoming more confident and prepared, yet still vulnerable in the face of adversity.

The game offers a more immersive experience in Survivor Mode, which enhances the challenge by disabling checkpoints, making enemies deadlier, and refraining from highlighting interactable items in the environment.


Lara Croft perched on a tree branch overlooking an enemy camp in Rise of the Tomb Raider.
Image: Crystal Dynamics/Square Enix

A More Immersive Experience

Survivor Mode adds tension to encounters, forcing players to carefully prepare and consider every move. The game’s robust crafting system and hidden tomb puzzles contribute to a well-rounded gaming experience.

Rise of the Tomb Raider provides a challenging gameplay experience along with a complex narrative that goes beyond the typical archetype of a badass archeologist.

2013’s Tomb Raider did a fantastic job of establishing Lara as a character, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider makes for a fitting capstone to the latest trilogy. But for me, Rise of the Tomb Raider was the peak of Crystal Dynamic’s trilogy.

Rise of the Tomb Raider is available on Xbox Game Pass.