Amazon Game Studios has unveiled new gameplay mechanics for the highly anticipated remake of the original Tomb Raider, titled Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis. The upcoming title, slated for release next year, aims to modernize Lara Croft's 1996 adventure with graphical enhancements and significant gameplay revisions, which have sparked considerable debate among fans.
Reimagined Combat and Progression
The "Combat & Progression Reimagined" video, released on the official Tomb Raider YouTube channel, showcases several new systems. Game director Raul Siquera detailed the addition of a "Focus" meter. This meter builds as players deal and take damage, and dodge attacks. When activated, Focus allows players to briefly slow down time, enabling Lara to perform more of her signature acrobatic moves, echoing abilities seen in the original game.
Design director Jason Epps elaborated on further changes, including a skill tree and an herb-collecting system. These mechanics are inspired by Crystal Dynamics' Survivor Trilogy, which emphasized scavenging and character upgrades. Epps expressed a desire to integrate the sense of player engagement derived from enhancing Lara's power, as experienced in the Survivor games. Crafting, described as a Resident Evil-style system, will allow players to create healing items that also provide temporary buffs.
Fan Reception to New Mechanics
While the Focus meter has received a generally muted response, with some finding its execution visually appealing, the introduction of the skill tree and crafting systems has been met with significant criticism. Online discussions, particularly on platforms like ResetEra, show a strong backlash. Comments express dissatisfaction, with some questioning the necessity of Lara learning new skills at this stage of her presumed experienced career, especially in a remake of a game known for its more straightforward design.
Developer Intentions and Flexibility
Developers appear to be aiming for a blend of classic Tomb Raider elements and the more recent Survivor Trilogy's approach, likely to foster a more cohesive series timeline. The skill tree introduces a unique twist, as skill points will be earned by collecting in-game artifacts rather than through traditional experience point leveling. To reassure fans that the core experience will remain recognizable, the development team confirmed that the entire game can be completed using only Lara's iconic dual pistols. Epps stated that players have the option to remain "iconic" throughout their playthrough.
Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is scheduled for release on Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X on February 12, 2027.