“Tomb Raider II” is an action-adventure game where players take on the role of Lara Croft, an archaeologist-adventurer, who embarks on a quest to find the legendary Dagger of Xian. This powerful artifact is also sought after by an Italian cult, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure.
The gameplay involves Lara navigating through various levels, battling enemies, solving puzzles, and occasionally utilizing vehicles to progress.
Tomb Raider II received critical acclaim for its expanded gameplay and improved graphics, becoming a commercial success, selling nearly seven million copies worldwide.
TR2 Games
Tomb Raider 2, often abbreviated as TR2, is the second installment in the legendary Tomb Raider series. Developed by Core Design and released in 1997, it quickly gained acclaim for its groundbreaking 3D graphics and immersive gameplay.
| Name | Tomb Raider 2 | TR2 Games |
| Developer | Core Design |
| Publisher | Eidos Interactive |
| First Release | 21 November 1997 |
| Series | Tomb Raider |
| Genre | Action-adventure |
| Mode | Single-player |
| Platform(s) | Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, Mac OS, |
The game was initially released on Windows and PlayStation in 1997. Subsequent releases followed for Mac OS (1998), iOS (2014), and Android (2015). A remastered version, including ‘The Golden Mask’ expansion, is slated for launch on various platforms in February 2024.
Gameplay
“Tomb Raider II” is a video game where you play as Lara Croft, an adventurer and archaeologist. You explore places like ancient ruins and tombs to find valuable artifacts. The game is divided into different levels, each with its own setting, like the Great Wall of China and Venice.
The gameplay is similar to the first Tomb Raider game. You control Lara from a third-person perspective and can run, walk, jump, and climb. There are puzzles to solve, traps to avoid, and tricky jumps to make.
Lara starts with two pistols that never run out of bullets but can also find other weapons like shotguns and rifles. Some areas have destructible objects that can create new paths.
As you explore, Lara can find items like first aid kits, flares for light, and ammunition. Each level also has three hidden items that give you extra supplies when you find them all. You can save your progress at any point in the game.
Development Highlights
1996: The release of the original Tomb Raider marks a critical and commercial triumph for Core Design and Eidos Interactive. A sequel is planned just two months after the original’s launch. Due to creative differences, credited creator Toby Gard and designer Paul Douglas leave the company. Programmer Gavin Rummery rejoins the Tomb Raider team shortly before their departure. The production schedule spans between six and eight months, causing considerable physical and emotional strain on the team.
1997: Tomb Raider II is initially planned for PlayStation, Windows, and Sega Saturn. However, the Saturn version is canceled due to technical limitations. Eidos signs an exclusive deal with Sony, making PlayStation the sole console for Tomb Raider until 2000. The Windows version is tailored for Windows 95. Lara’s appearance is enhanced, featuring more polygons for added realism. The combat focus increases with armed human opponents and a wider variety of enemies.
1998: Tomb Raider II is released for Mac OS in October.
2014: iOS release of Tomb Raider II.
2015: Android release of Tomb Raider II.
2024: A remastered version, Tomb Raider I-III Remasters, including “The Golden Mask” expansion, is scheduled for release on various platforms on February 14, 2024.
The Golden Mask Expansion
The Golden Mask is an extra adventure in Tomb Raider II with four new levels where Lara goes to a hidden place in Alaska to find a special golden mask. These levels were first released online in 1999 and later included with the main game as an add-on.
Graphics, Sounds, and Voice Acting
Graphics: Tomb Raider II showcased significant improvements in graphics compared to its predecessor. The environments were more detailed and vibrant, with intricate textures and dynamic lighting. Lara’s character model was enhanced, featuring smoother animations and a greater polygon count.
Sounds: The audio design in Tomb Raider II was a collaborative effort between composer Nathan McCree and sound designer Matt Kemp. McCree created a rich and diverse soundtrack, with standout pieces like “Venice” emulating Baroque music. The sound effects enhanced the game’s atmosphere, from rustling leaves to distant footsteps.
Voice Acting: Judith Gibbins took over the role of Lara Croft’s voice, delivering a performance that brought depth and personality to the character. Her involvement was kept a secret as part of the marketing strategy to maintain the illusion that Lara was a real person.
Legacy and Influence
“Tomb Raider 2” from 1997 was a game-changer. It improved on the first game by adding dual pistols and tougher puzzles. The game felt like a movie with its exciting story and clever camera angles. Lara Croft became a superstar, appearing in movies and comics. The game’s success influenced other games, especially those with 3D action and adventure. It showed that games could have awesome female heroes. Lara was brainy, strong, and skilled. “Tomb Raider 2” is a classic that people still love today, and its impact on games and pop culture is huge.
