Home
tech
Mobile
The new 'Tomb Raider' game for smartphones is fantastic

The new 'Tomb Raider' game for smartphones is fantastic

A lot of love went into Lara Croft and the world of "Lara Croft GO."

The motif extends through to level selection as well, with an explorer's notebook standing in for a more standard menu.

As you complete levels, Lara's sketch of her progress fills out. Here's an example from part-way through the "Maze of Snakes" levels, which introduce — you guessed it — lots of snakes.

So, what does "Lara Croft GO" play like? Slowly and methodically — a lot like "Monument Valley," actually. You'll navigate Lara through treacherous worlds, one step at a time.

See those diamonds on the ground in grey? These guys:

Those are places you can move Lara, one step at a time. "Lara Croft GO" is a game about slowly, methodically overcoming challenges and reaching the end of areas. Proceed from point A to point B without getting killed in the process. Here's Lara sneaking over some DANGEROUS overgrowth:

Many levels have multiple areas. In this instance, reaching one end...

...Only to enter a new area full of more snakes. Drats!

But don't worry, you don't have to fight the snakes (or spiders, or alligators, or any of the other angry creatures Lara comes across). Facing them head on means certain death, but approaching one from the side, or from behind, means Lara will sneak attack with her pistols. This simple decision turns "combat" into a game of chess.

In this instance, you have to figure out how to attack the snakes without getting killed yourself. The spear seen can also be picked up and used to take out one snake from a distance. It's with these bare bones tools and rules you'll proceed to victory.

Snakes stay in one place, while spiders move on a pre-determined track. For every step Lara takes, they take one step on their track. In this way, "Lara Croft GO" uses the game's limitations to its advantage, forcing you to think about every step you take.

But let's not spoil every little discovery. There's lots we haven't touched on, from collectibles (scattered everywhere – keep an eye out!) to the game's hint system (a $5 purchase in addition to the game's already high price – unfortunate).

All you need to know at this point is whether or not you've got a spare few hours and enough iPhone juice to enjoy the splendor which is "Lara Croft GO." It's pretty and entertaining and easy to pick up and put down as you need to, like any good mobile game should be. Don't sleep on "Lara Croft GO."

Here's a link to pick up "Lara Croft GO" on iTunes.

Here's a link to pick up "Lara Croft GO" on Google Play.Youtube Embed:
http://www.youtube.com/embed/1D2btQap0_c
Width: 800px
Height: 450px

View Other Slidelists