The latest Tomb Raider remaster collection has arrived, bringing three of Lara's classic adventures into the modern era with significant enhancements. Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered doesn't just polish the graphics—it introduces quality-of-life improvements and even restores content that was cut from the original releases. Let's explore ten exciting features you might have missed in this comprehensive update to Lara's later Core Design adventures.
Dual Pistols Make a Triumphant Return
Perhaps the most exciting restoration for longtime fans is the return of Lara's signature dual pistols in Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness. This iconic weapon pairing was sorely missed in the original release. In the remaster, players can finally experience AoD with proper dual-wielding action, though you'll first need to collect a pair of Vector R-35s before unleashing double the firepower.
This is just one of many restorations in The Angel of Darkness, which also includes the previously missing Parisian Back Streets training area and Kurtis Trent finally getting to use his Chirugai weapon in gameplay. For a complete breakdown of the Angel of Darkness restorations, check out the detailed article on the official site.
Modern Control Options for Classic Adventures
Following the successful approach of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, players can now choose between traditional Tank Controls or more contemporary Modern Controls across all three games. This flexibility is especially valuable for The Angel of Darkness, which was originally designed with analog stick controls in mind on the PlayStation 2.
The developers recommend using Modern Controls with a gamepad for the best Angel of Darkness experience. These controls separate the 'action' function between two buttons—one for picking up and moving objects, and another for grabbing ledges and shooting. Setting 'Duck Mode' to 'Hold' is also suggested for more intuitive control.
New Movement Abilities Enhance Gameplay
Both The Last Revelation and Chronicles feature welcome movement upgrades, including a particularly useful Slide to Run mechanic that eliminates Lara's stumbling animation after sliding down a slope. Additional movement tweaks create a smoother gameplay experience while retaining the core feel of the original games.
The Revolutionary Flyby Camera Maker
While Photo Mode has become a standard feature in modern games, Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered takes creativity a step further with the innovative Flyby Camera Maker. This tool allows players to create their own cinematic camera movements by mapping out custom paths, opening up new possibilities for creative expression within these classic environments.
Enhanced Graphics Options for Better Visibility
The remaster introduces several graphics options to improve the playing experience. The Last Revelation and Chronicles now feature Retro FPS toggle (allowing players to run retro graphics at 60fps instead of the original 30fps) and Pickup Highlight functionality that makes collectible items easier to spot.
Returning features from the previous remaster collection include Enemy Health Bar toggle and Action Indicators, with the addition of a handy Ammo Counter to keep track of your remaining bullets.
Stylishly Reimagined Loading Screens
Both Chronicles and The Angel of Darkness feature completely redesigned loading screens that pay homage to the originals while bringing them up to modern standards. Chronicles' new screens draw inspiration from official Core Design renders, while The Angel of Darkness loading screens have been carefully recreated with creative flourishes that better reflect each level's unique atmosphere.
Expanded Outfit Selection Options
The popular outfit selection feature returns, allowing players to customize Lara's appearance across all three games. In The Last Revelation and Chronicles, players can equip Lara's signature round glasses from the start, while Angel of Darkness offers stylish shades as an immediate option.
Additional outfits become available after completing each game, with extra rewards for diligent secret-hunters who explore every corner of these expansive adventures.
New Game+ Challenges Increase Replayability
For those seeking additional challenges after completing the main games, New Game+ mode returns with interesting twists. The Last Revelation, for instance, features Von Croy skipping the tutorial during the Angkor Wat level, while The Angel of Darkness replaces the save game menu with a GPS-based save system featuring 48 strategically placed save points.
Achievement Hunting Across Three Adventures
Trophy hunters and achievement collectors will find over 150 new challenges to conquer across all three games, providing additional incentive to explore every nook and cranny of these classic adventures.
The Complete Core Design Collection Remastered
With the release of Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered, the entire Core Design Tomb Raider catalog has now received the remaster treatment. Players can now experience Lara's complete original journey with both classic and enhanced visuals.
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered and Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered are now available across multiple platforms, including Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, Epic Games Store, and GOG.
TLDR;
Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered delivers more than just visual upgrades, bringing substantial quality-of-life improvements and restored content to these classic adventures. From the return of dual pistols in Angel of Darkness to flexible control schemes and the creative Flyby Camera Maker, these remasters honor the originals while making them more accessible and enjoyable for modern players.