Fans Anxiously Await Upcoming Release of Tomb Raider Remastered Trilogy

Long-time fans of the classic Tomb Raider video game series have been eagerly anticipating the upcoming remastered re-releases of the first three titles in the franchise. Initially announced last year, publisher Square Enix has provided some new details this week about what players can expect from the updated versions of the legendary games that launched Lara Croft to international fame.

Enhanced Visuals and Modernized Controls

Two of the most common requests from fans regarding the remasters have been updated graphics and less restrictive control schemes similar to more recent franchise entries. Developer Aspyr has revealed that all three titles – Tomb Raider (1996), Tomb Raider II (1997), and Tomb Raider III (1998) – will feature enhanced textures and higher display resolutions when played on modern consoles and PCs. Additionally, players will have the option to utilize a new analog control system for fluid movement and gameplay more in line with 2013’s series reboot.

Original Tomb Raider Trilogy Release Dates:

- Tomb Raider - Nov 15, 1996
- Tomb Raider II - Oct 31, 1997  
- Tomb Raider III - Nov 20, 1998

However, classic fans need not worry as Aspyr has confirmed that the tank-style directional controls that veteran players know and love will still be available. This appears to be part of a larger effort to appeal to both existing series loyalists who have nostalgic memories of the first three titles as well as draw in new fans whose expectations have been set by the recent Survivor timeline trilogy.

Long-Requested Features Finally Added

In addition to the graphical and control improvements, the remastered editions will introduce some new features to the classics. This includes a photo mode that will let players pause the action and manipulate the camera to capture iconic images of Lara Croft to share with friends or use as screenshots. The game will also add support for trophies and achievements through PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, and Steam for players wishing to fully complete all challenges offered by the titles.

Surprisingly, Aspyr has hinted that the remasters may contain some unexpected additions as well. The studio says they still have “plenty more to share soon” about what classic Tomb Raider elements are being retained, restored, or potentially added. The community has already begun speculating about what unspecified surprises could be in store when the collection finally releases.

Concerns Over Lack of Gameplay Previews

For all the newly highlighted features and graphical improvements discussed, fans have noted the distinct lack of actual gameplay footage showcased so far. To date, only a single 30-second teaser trailer has been revealed across the game’s social media channels. While Aspyr has promised more video is imminent, passionate Tomb Raider communities are worried about what the extended preview silence could imply.

Previous video game remasters that shied away from early gameplay reveals have occasionally resulted in final products that relied too heavily on upscaled resolution while lacking more substantive updates. Fans fear the Tomb Raider re-releases could end up visually disappointing despite assurances of enhanced graphics. Fueled by enthusiasm for the franchise, supporters are anxious to see the remasters in action before the scheduled February 14 launch.

What to Expect at Release

The Tomb Raider I-III remaster collection will be available digitally for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Windows PC. PlayStation owners that pre-order will receive an exclusive classic Lara skin based on her original PlayStation 1 model. A retail version for consoles is slated for release on March 21, 2023 and will include a book of developer interviews and concept art.

Upon launch, reviews will determine how well the graphical improvements and control updates are implemented. Supporting elements like trophies could add entertaining reasons for series veterans to revisit the titles. And if Aspyr does manage to sneak in some unexpected extras, it may result in an appealing collection even for gamers without existing Tomb Raider nostalgia.

The Future of the Franchise

Looking beyond the imminent remasters, attention will soon shift to the future of the Tomb Raider game series. Developer Crystal Dynamics is rumored to be working on an entirely new Lara Croft adventure, marking the first original entry since Shadow of the Tomb Raider concluded the Survivor trilogy in 2018. Details are non-existent but fans will be watching closely for any hints once the Remastered collection releases next month.

For now, players anxiously count down the days until February 14 when the enhanced editions of the groundbreaking first three Tomb Raider games finally launch. Faithful fans have been eager for an excuse to revisit the titles that started 25 years of adventures for gaming’s iconic heroine Lara Croft. The community hopes Aspyr’s efforts properly balance appealing to existing series devotees while introducing her origin stories to a new generation.

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