Get ready to dust off your Lara Croft cosplay, because Amazon Games is breathing new life into a gaming icon. The latest installment in their behind-the-scenes development series for Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis has dropped, and while the promise of updated graphics is enticing, it’s the gameplay changes that are causing quite the stir among long-time fans. This isn’t just a fresh coat of paint; it’s a reimagining of Lara’s adventure, and not everyone is convinced it’s for the better.
A New Look at Combat and Progression
The “Combat & Progression Reimagined” video, posted on the official Tomb Raider YouTube channel, offers an in-depth look at some of the new systems coming to Legacy of Atlantis. Game director Raul Siquera introduces “Focus,” a mechanic that allows players to slow down time and execute iconic Lara moves. “When you’re taking damage, dealing damage, dodging attacks, you’re building your Focus meter,” Siquera explained. This system aims to recapture the feel of classic Tomb Raider gameplay while adding a modern twist.
[[MEDIA_0: A screenshot from the “Combat & Progression Reimagined” video showing Lara using her Focus ability to slow down time and perform an acrobatic maneuver.]]
Design director Jason Epps further detailed two more significant changes: a skill tree and a revamped crafting system. These additions draw inspiration from Crystal Dynamics’ acclaimed Survivor Trilogy, which emphasized resource management and character progression. “When I played the Survivor series and I could suddenly affect and increase Lara’s power in the game, I felt much more engaged,” said Epps. Crafting now operates on a Resident Evil-inspired system, allowing players to create items that not only heal Lara but also grant her powerful buffs.
[[MEDIA_1: A concept art image showcasing the skill tree available to players in Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, highlighting various upgrade paths for Lara’s abilities.]]
The introduction of the “Focus” mechanic has been met with a mixed reception. While some appreciate the attempt to modernize classic gameplay, others find it detracts from the core experience. The skill tree and crafting systems, however, have drawn more widespread criticism. A ResetEra thread dedicated to discussing the video is filled with comments expressing disappointment and questioning the direction of the remake. One user succinctly put it: “No sir, I don’t like it.” Another raised a valid point: “Isn’t she supposed to be a veteran treasure hunter in this game? Why would she be learning new skills at her age?”
The original Tomb Raider was known for its straightforward gameplay and lack of RPG elements. Many fans hoped that Legacy of Atlantis would recapture that essence, but these additions seem to push the game in a different direction. However, it’s important to remember that the developers are attempting to bridge the gap between the classic games and the more modern entries in the series, aiming for a unified timeline.
One intriguing aspect of the skill tree is that Lara will gain skill points by collecting artifacts within the game world, rather than simply leveling up through experience points. Furthermore, to reassure fans concerned about straying too far from the original spirit of Tomb Raider, the developers have confirmed that the entire game can be played using only Lara’s trusty dual pistols. “If you decide that you want to play with the dual pistols the entire way and be iconic. Absolutely,” said Epps.
Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is slated for release on Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X on February 12, 2027. Whether these changes will resonate with fans remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: the conversation surrounding this remake is far from over.
Source: Polygon
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