A ten minute demonstration isn't really enough to get the feel of a final game - for example, we have no idea how difficult the puzzles are, or if the controls are designed for humans or chimps - but it left a distinct feeling the Crystal Dynamics have got things right with Tomb Raider: Underworld. They've taken what worked well in the old titles and in Legend (Troels Folmann handles the scoring duties again, for one), tried to remove what didn't ("next gen content" = dog slow performance), and still produce something that feels new (motorbike, slippy surfaces, broad scope to levels).
Needless to say, unless the developers make a total meal out of the rest of it, there's no reason why Underworld shouldn't sell like hot cakes on a cold, wintry day. The gameplay is classic Tomb Raider, Lara's never looked better and the makers know exactly what makes a Tomb Raider fan tick.
Thanks go to Sarah Van Rompaey, Senior Producer of Underworld, for the brief quotes. If you wish to comment on this preview or discuss the game further, then please click here (registration not required)
Time has been kind to Lara
Over the years, Lara's changed quite a bit...
Lara's first outing - all pointy and square
Not much of an improvement in II and III, but her hair was nicer!
Teenage Miss Croft introduced The Last Revelation
Lara during the Chronicles era
Denim was the fashion for Angel of Darkness
Legend saw the return of the classic outfits
Production Photographs
To ensure that Tomb Raider: Underworld felt as realistic as possible for each "historical level", the developers enjoyed a splendid holiday or two, snapping photos:
Games: Tomb Raider: Anniversary
