User blog:JAlbor/Tomb Raider Wishlist

The much anticipated Tomb Raider, the reboot of sorts from Crystal Dynamics, is just a couple months away. While the new rendition of Lara Croft is set to re-establish her as an icon, this first entry into a new series looks to change a lot about Lara as a character. Knowing what we know about the game and the future of the series, I have a few things I would love to see in this upcoming game. Let me know what you want to see by leaving your thoughts in the comments below?

1. Large Environments
Set on an island off the coast of Japan, the environment of Tomb Raider is going to be as important to the story and any of the major plot points. The island is more than just a survival challenge for Lara. It has to represent both a major influence in her transformation to becoming the heroine we know and love and a place of mystery that can spur, not deter, Lara continued interest in adventuring. For all this to make sense, the environments in the game will have to be both intricate and expansive.



2. A Powerful Lara
We know so much of this game involves a Lara who is still inexperience, vulnerable, and even scared. I love the realism the development team is choosing to insert into the series. Frankly, it's about time we had a Lara with the nuance we expect in modern gaming. That being said, all the trailers and media have revolved around a version of the character that is, in my opinion, too beaten down. I am OK if it takes the entire game to see her, but I want to play as a Lara than finally feels powerful and capable.



3. Camouflage
This might be asking a lot, but how amazing would it be if Lara literally becomes so enmeshed with the island and her own capabilities that she can use her environment to her advantage. Imagine finding leaves and pigments to create a smart and stealthy adventurer. Not only does this sound narratively compelling, but it could make for some really interesting stealth portions of the game.



4. A Temporary Partner
Crystal Dynamics proved they could make a rock-solid Tomb Raider game when they released Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light. Unlike any other game, it managed to carve its own unique path in terms of gameplay but still uphold Tomb Raider's love of puzzle-solving, mystery, and exploration. One of the most compelling components of that game was its unique side-kick of sorts. Yes, I know the Tomb Raider reboot will be a very different game, but I would be lying if I didn't want to see some awesome cooperative elements in the game with some of Lara's fellow survivors.



5. Tombs, But Only One
Alright, this is a weird one, I know. Past Tomb Raider games have ventured deep into underground cities and ancient ruins, and even featured magical artifacts from past civilizations. I think the archaeological angle could be really interesting, particularly as Lara learns more about this island. However, it will feel better if the first time Lara enters a truly epic and mysterious tomb, it is at the game's climax.