The remastered versions of Tomb Raider IV-VI have brought Lara's later adventures into stunning modern visuals while preserving the nostalgic gameplay we love. Beyond the graphical enhancements, the developers have hidden several clever Easter eggs and tributes throughout these games. These range from nods to rival adventure franchises to acknowledgments of the series' development history. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the most interesting hidden gems you can find in the remastered trilogy.
TLDR;
- Indiana Jones tribute in TR4's opening level featuring a skeleton with a fedora and whip
- Core Design Graveyard in TR5 with headstones referencing development history
- Level Editor acknowledgment through computer screens in TR5
- Enhanced weapon details, including a properly functioning SPAS-12 shotgun
- Various visual touches that add depth to the remastered environments
Indiana Jones Tribute in Tomb Raider 4
In the opening Cambodia training level of Tomb Raider IV: The Last Revelation, keen-eyed players can spot a skeleton caught in a spike trap. What makes this special is that the unfortunate victim is holding a whip and wearing a fedora – unmistakable references to Indiana Jones. This playful nod acknowledges the friendly rivalry between the two adventure franchises that defined the archaeological action genre.
To find this Easter egg, pay close attention during the training segments with Von Croy. The skeleton can be spotted in one of the trap-filled corridors, eternally preserved as a warning to would-be adventurers (or competing archaeologists).
Core Design Graveyard in Tomb Raider: Chronicles
Perhaps the most fascinating addition to Tomb Raider: Chronicles (TR5) is found in the opening graveyard scene. The remastered version features readable headstones that contain references to the series' development history:
- A gravestone for "Melissa Croft" – a fascinating nod to the scrapped concept of Lara having a sister
- A memorial for Core Design itself, honoring the original developer of the Tomb Raider series
- Various other tombstones with subtle references to game development and characters
This graveyard serves as both a literal and metaphorical monument to ideas and concepts that didn't make it into the final games, giving players insight into the evolution of the Tomb Raider franchise.
Custom Tomb Raider Levels Acknowledgment
Tomb Raider: Chronicles includes a clever tribute to the fan community that has kept the games alive for decades. In the Von Croy Industries section, players can spot computer monitors displaying the Tomb Raider Level Editor interface. This official acknowledgment of the modding community shows appreciation for the fans who have created thousands of custom levels over the years.
This Easter egg is particularly meaningful given how crucial fan-created content has been to maintaining interest in the classic Tomb Raider titles between official releases.
Enhanced Weapon Details
The development team paid special attention to weapon details in the remastered trilogy. Most notably, the shotgun in The Last Revelation has been updated with a proper pump mechanism, making it look and function more like the SPAS-12 it's modeled after. This small but significant change addresses a visual inconsistency in the original game.
Other weapons throughout the trilogy have received similar attention to detail, making the remastered combat feel more authentic while preserving the original gameplay mechanics.
Visual Enhancements and Hidden Details
Throughout all three remastered games, players can find numerous visual enhancements that add depth and character to the environments:
- In TR4, golden skulls now have distinct tracking in the inventory, making secret hunting more rewarding
- TR5 features golden roses as collectibles with enhanced visual effects
- The Angel of Darkness (TR6) includes restored elements and details that were present in design documents but didn't make it into the original release
These enhancements have sparked some debate among players about whether the polished look undermines the original games' grittier atmosphere. However, the ability to switch between classic and remastered visuals allows players to experience both versions and decide for themselves.
Additional Secrets in The Angel of Darkness
Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness (TR6) contains several unique Easter eggs:
- In Ren's pawnshop, players can spot a copy of "Tomb Raider: The Prophecy," a Game Boy Color title from the series
- A world map within the VCI levels displays locations from previous games, serving as a nostalgic summary of Lara's adventures
- Several previously cut voice lines and gameplay elements have been restored, particularly content related to Kurtis Trent
The remaster team clearly took the opportunity to flesh out The Angel of Darkness, which was famously rushed during its original development cycle.
Finding These Easter Eggs Yourself
To discover these secrets in your own playthroughs:
- Take time to explore environments fully - many Easter eggs are tucked away in corners or require careful observation
- Use the photo mode to get better views of detailed environments
- Talk to all NPCs and interact with objects that might seem insignificant
- Pay attention during cutscenes, as some references appear briefly
The remastered trilogy offers both nostalgic gameplay and these new hidden details, making it worthwhile for both newcomers and veteran raiders to explore every nook and cranny of Lara's adventures.
These Easter eggs and references demonstrate the care and appreciation the development team had for Tomb Raider's legacy when creating these remasters. Whether you're playing for the first time or returning to these classics, keep your eyes open for these special touches that enrich the Tomb Raider experience.