When I reviewed Microsoft’s exclusive Rise of the Tomb Raider last year, I wondered then if the exclusivity was worth it. That question still lingers open as the exclusivity has lifted and now it’s Sony’s turn with Lara Croft.
The 20th Anniversary Edition of Rise of the Tomb Raider is clearly the definitive edition of the game. Packed with new DLC, as well as all the previously released pieces, new co-op content, bonuses, skins, etc., Square Enix pulled no punches to let PlayStation fans that know they were not forgotten.
The new Blood Ties DLC is not for the player who is looking for Lara’s next action-packed adventure. Blood Ties is more like the bookworm of the DLC family – filled with lore, audio logs and tame puzzles to fill in the gaps about the Croft family. I thought it was fantastic, but then again, I’m a sucker for that sort of stuff.
The game itself is the exact same as its Xbox One and PC counterparts. The narrative arc leaves something to be desired, but captures the essential essence of a Tomb Raider undertaking. Various missions, side quests, challenges, and collections are throughout the game to continue and lengthen your play experience. Where Rise truly shines is in the mechanics and gameplay. The controls are tight using the DualShock 4 and I didn’t have trouble with the transition or missed a beat.
I did hold off on my review as I looked for a chance to play the co-op endurance mode, but I ran into a problem that may be more widespread with certain groups of friends such as the ones I have. Many of my friends have already played through Lara’s adventure, last year. So, all the coins, cards, and new multiplayer modes in the world will not bring them to purchase a $60 game. That said, I am still on the lookout for a partner to play some endurance modes.
Overall, Rise of the Tomb Raider 20th Anniversary Edition is full, complete Lara Croft experience. It has everything, including old school outfits and skins to play with and use. If you have not yet played Rise of the Tomb Raider, whether due to the exclusivity or a missed opportunity, I cannot recommend this version enough. If you own a PS4 and have yet to play this, this is a must buy.