Eidos Sinks To New Depths With Tomb Raider V (2000)

Facing low stocks and an upcoming system transition, Eidos resorts to yet another Tomb Raider.

by IGN Staff - March 1, 2000

Eidos is doing it again. It's making another Tomb Raider for PlayStation. A fifth.

For many people, Tomb Raider III was the straw that broke the camel's back. The game's infuriatingly frustrating levels and illogical switchbacks prompted players to sell the game back to videogame retailers in far larger quantities than with prior Tomb Raider games. But for others, Tomb Raider IV was the final straw, despite all of the "changes" to improve it. (Did that game really go back to the original's roots? Or was that just a great marketing idea?) Now, according to financial reports from the BBC Online, Eidos has official plans to make another Tomb Raider for PlayStation and PC, due by year's end.

Eidos' plans to make yet another Tomb Raider game portrays not only the company's inability to change its internal business strategies, but also its belief that gamers actually WANT another Tomb Raider. It shows Eidos believes that shoving the same plodding game, year after year, down gamers' throats is a good thing. It shows that Eidos, just like any other game company, wants to make money; but that it will stoop to new lows to do it.

Tomb Raider V won't solve Eidos' problems. Shipping crappy games, such as Fighting Force II, Urban Chaos, and Official Formula 1 Racing, won't either. Investing in better developers, and taking chances with others, such as Kronos (which made Fear Effect) will. If anything, any new Tomb Raider that isn't entirely redesigned for a new system makes a mockery of Eidos, and the once endearing Tomb Raider series itself.

Eidos, we have a message for you: Quit while you're ahead. Stop making the same damn Tomb Raider game. Do something with Tomb Raider on PlayStation2 that will surprise and delight us. IGNPSX won't swallow another Tomb Raider again. Neither will gamers across the US, and perhaps across the world.

Readers Speak Out On Tomb Raider (2000)

IGNPSX's readers give their take on Eidos' plans to release Tomb Raider V for PlayStation.

by IGN Staff - March 2, 2000

Yesterday, IGNPSX's Editor-in-Chief, Douglass C. Perry, posted an editorial titled Eidos Sinks To New Depths With Tomb Raider V. It was in response to a recent revelation by Eidos that it will release its fifth Tomb Raider game for the PlayStation before year's end. The editorial asked for the readers' opinion on it and we've already gotten hundreds of responses regarding the subject.

Based on the feedback, it's very clear that our readers feel that Eidos is making a HUGE mistake by releasing Tomb Raider V on the PlayStation. Either the company needs to re-invent the game on a new system (with a completely new engine and style) or just kill the series entirely. Of the hundreds of emails that we received, less than 5% were in favor of Eidos making a new Tomb Raider for PlayStation.

Even though that I'm personally a fan of the series (and gave TR4 a fairly high score of 8.5 out 10), I completely agree with Doug on this one. I stand by my opinion given in the review that TR4 is one of the best in the series and is a solid game when taken by itself, but Core hasn't improved the series that much over the past four years. It needs a major overhaul. It looks like most videogame fans out there agree with this.

Here's a small sample of some of the pro-Doug/anti-Tomb Raider V letters (The letters have NOT been spell-checked and will likely contain many spelling errors.):


I completely agree with Doug's comments regarding Tomb Raider. Throughout development of Warzone 2100, we tried forever to try and get people at Eidos to market or take an interest in the product. We were constantly met with an attitude that was along the lines of:

"Is it like Tomb Raider"
"Well, no, it isn't"
"Oh"

It seemed to be the only thing they were comfortable in dealing with. This was true of the PC version as well - this being one of the highest average review scoring games Eidos have ever released. The PSX version was a difficult thing to realize well, due to memory constraints and controller issues, but we spent a lot of time and effort on it. The game sold well enough to make a profit, but it should have (and would have) sold so much better if Eidos had actually taken an interest in promoting it. Resolutely sticking to flogging the dying horse that is Tomb Raider will not a secure future make....;-(

From,
One of the Warzone 2100 Developers.


Dear Mr. Perry,

I could not agree with you more on your views on the upcoming Tomb Raider V. I remember buying Tomb Raider as one of the first games for my PlayStation, and I admit that the game kept me busy for weeks! The game had this great touch of mystery to it that still puzzles us today, and the game was great to bring out these thoughts inside us. When Tomb Raider II hit the shelves I did not hesitate to buy it believing that it would be everything the first game was and more, of course. It did not take me long, however, to notice that the angle had changes completely. The levels were modern facilities, planes and whatnot. Hoping that it would improve as it progressed I finished the game, but by the time I was finished I had lost just about all respect for Tomb Raider.

I've played Tomb Raider IV a couple of times and to me the game has not really changed at all since the first release it has only gotten more difficult and the puzzles have become more and more complex lacking logical solutions. Furthermore, Lara Croft is getting very old. A new character for a possible PS2 release would give the game a new look and some new blood, which it desperately needs.

Perhaps this is not even worth debating. Eidos, as you describe it does not seem to be willing to change their strategies and you could ask yourself if such a company should even be around to poison the market of PlayStation games.

Yours,
Jesper Hvid


I gave up on Tomb Raider after TR III - I found the game tedious and frustrating even AFTER I resorted to a FAQ to finish it! The game smacked of cheap tricks and uninspired design, and from what I hear TR IV wasn't much better. Thanks, but unless I hear some remarkable things about TR V, I'll pass.

Rod Rich


For the love of god, no more Tomb Raider. This series has pretty much SUCKED big time since the second outing. I swear that even if we don't buy this year's crappy sequel, they'll ram another one down our throats the next. Just don't buy it and remember the first one for how good it WAS.

F.T.


I couldn't have said that better myself. Tomb Raider is like a great TV sitcom that is on the air longer than it should be; one that instead of canceling the series, decides to come back season after season, desecrating the great accomplishments that were achieved in the past. Eidos is especially pathetic now, whoring out Lara to any system that'll take her used and overexposed goods. they are afraid to let go; but ironically, for the sake of their company they will have to eventually drop the sinking tomb raider series. otherwise their first success will end up being their downfall...


Hey guys,

I agree with you; Tomb Raider 3 was the death of that series for me. The game was so horrible I resorted to level-skip codes to beat it (something I have never done on any other video-game). TR1 was awesome; TR2 was OK but definitely lacking. TR3 sucked and I have no plans to buy TR4 let ALONE 5 (if it's on PS1). Eidos generally turns out crap these days (except for Fear Effect). Did TR4 sell well? If it did, that probably explains their tactics. But I won't buy TR5 for PlayStation.

DarkChilde


Man o Man guys, I totally agree with you on that whole Tomb Raider b&*(. I'm actually a fan of the Tomb Raiders series, having owned all, except for TR3 and 4 (planning to buy the next one on the DC). The only reason why I buy the games is because of the exotic levels and locales in the game...they're beautiful. But enough is enough, I say. They are really, as you say, shoving this whole crap down my face now. I mean, part one was the bomb. Part 2 took it further, making us smile in bliss. Part 3 bugged the hell out of me...I couldn't get past the first level. Glad I only rented that one. Part 4 was truly enjoyable, but proved to be the same game with new levels. I don't think I can take part 5, however, no matter how I love the TR series (Lara for that matter). I agree, they are just going to make idiots of themselves, while in the process ruin a perfectly good franchise...and that's not mentioning the amount of money that I presume they will lose. Gamers are not that stupid to shell out extra bucks for basically the same game. I suggest they sit on their ass, under a tree like all those philosophers, and contemplate on a better Tomb Raider. No more on the PlayStation, please. I suggest the Dreamcast or PlayStation 2. Well, I spoke my piece. Stay up, IGN.

Latez,

Soun


When the first Tomb Raider was released, I was blown away. The game immersed me like no other game before it. I raved about it to anyone who would listen. I wanted more.

Tomb Raider 2 came out, and I enjoyed it. It didn't really offer anything new; just more Tomb Raider. At the time, it was what I wanted, so it was good enough...but the third one better be a significant leap forward. And seeing Lara's face all over TV and magazines was already beginning to wear thin.

Tomb Raider 3. What a pile. The same game, repackaged again, but now excruciatingly difficult. Terrible level design with a complete lack of focus. None of the flaws from the previous games had been fixed...instead, they were amplified. Lara and her marketability had taken precedence over delivering a quality product.

Tomb Raider 4...since Eidos had so completely insulted me as a consumer, I chose to pass on the 4th installment without a second thought. No interest whatsoever. Eidos had successfully killed one of the best franchises ever. Well done.

Tomb Raider 5. As if I don't loathe Eidos enough already. Shameless crap-pushers. No one I know, no matter die-hard they once were, gives a damn about Lara anymore. Call it quits, Eidos. You're just making fools of yourself at this point.

-Kurt Kanellos


I agree with the IGN editors that EIDOS stands for Extremely Idiotic Developers Of Software. I would say that the marketing department is full of dumb@sses as well. What the hell are they thinking they can accomplish by putting out another damn Tomb Raider game?


Exhausted? Frustrated? Fed up with the whole series? Where's the "all of the above" case? I mean, for God's sake. Everybody liked the first one. Then when came number 2, although it seemed rushed we fans bought it. But when Eidos tried to push number 3 on us, we had enough. I still can't believe they did a fourth installment and now they're projecting a fifth one!? Come on. It's over guys! Move on, cause we sure did.

- A Tomb Raider (the original) fan


WHAT THE HELL? I thought 4 was Lara's Last Revelation? My God, Tomb Raider is the Hulk Hogan of video games...keep saying its the last one, retires, then comes back 4 months later for money. I am so sick of Tomb Raider...I thought with 4, maybe they would switch to the LOK: Soul Reaver engine...no load times, huge environment, etc. This game still looks like it came out 4 years ago. I made the mistake of buying 4, but I refuse to line Eidos' pockets with my money any longer(except for Fear Effect, which I beat in 2 days and took back anyway). And what is up with them (pardon the expression) whoring themselves to every system known to man?? A billion PC ports to the DC, now making Dolphin games, what the crap? I HATE EIDOS....maybe it's a good thing they spread their crap around instead of just piling it on Sony's shoes.

The Trikster


Doug, you couldn't have said it any better. I absolutely loved the revolutionary play from TR1. TR2 featured interesting levels and a bit more challenge. TR3 had highs and lows. But I made the mistake of purchasing TR4. After prancing around with young Lara (stupid move, Core), bumbling through that first insanely dark tomb, and repeatedly fumbling with the new vines, I finally realized the truth. TR isn't very fun anymore. By the way, after about a half hour with TR4, I put the game away and haven't regretted it since. I mean, we complain about Capcom milking franchises, but at least their games are somewhat different. Enough's enough.

Kevin


To preserve the intelligence of the human race, someone please kill the person at Eidos who's idea it was to release another tomb raider.


What the hell is this crap!? Do they honestly think that anybody with half a brain is actually going to buy another one of these? They should change the format of the game .. Hell, make a Tomb Raider RPG for all I care! Just add a few characters, a REAL plot, and tada .. new game. Eidos, are you honestly stupid enough to release another crapfest tomb raider game?

-Aryk Braun


Your editorial was RIGHT ON in terms of how I feel about the series. The first Tomb Raider was a masterpiece and deserved ever bit of hype it got at the time. Each Tomb Raider since then has been a major disappointment. Cosmetic (and only slight) graphic improvements, STUPID puzzles, and a serious LACK of fun made each game more infuriating than the first. Who cares that he has ears, or that here ponytail is longer and sways back and forth, or that she's less pointy in certain areas?? For months all you hear about are the changes to her body and her clothes and I always thought that in the world of video games those were the least important points. Especially when you get slow down when a bat flies into the scene. The only game I bought for myself was the first but I bought the others for my nephew because he's too young to realize just how bad these games have gotten, though he's pretty good at them.

The saddest part of all that I really don't think the even know HOW to improve the series. They don't seem to realize that most games don't have Lara Croft pinups or jpeg files. Most of us just want to play a good game. It would be a waste of time and money to bring her over to the PS2...would be the same old fluff with improved graphics. We'd hear things like, "With the power of the PS2 we were able to add new and improved physics to the character models." Which means she'll bounce when she runs (Dead or Alive anyone?). They know her "sex appeal" is the only thing the series has going for it (which accounts for her sagging sales).

They've turned what was once an innovative and entertaining gaming experience into a gimmick that fans buy more out of habit than for any real love of the series anymore. Anyway, I've written so much that I don't know if it makes any sense so I'll end it here...the less I say, the less you'll clown me...

Just wanted to give my 2 cents...

Damon


The only way I would be interested in a new Tomb Raider game would in fact be if it were being developed exclusively on the PlayStation 2. Then it would make sense. You could have all of the gameplay of the original, which, while old, is still decent. You could have curves. Yes, REAL curves courtesy of spline based modeling. That in itself might make things more enjoyable...

Graphics are the only thing at this point that would make me play Tomb Raider again. I played the first one when it was new, and it blew me away. I have not played any of the others. No need to, I have the best one, the original.

Give me something completely new or don't give it to me at all, thanks.


If you guys didn't make this up, then I'm very disappointed in EIDOS and CORE. Tomb Raider 2 was enough to see where this series was going. You guys were being extremely NICE when you even bothered to rate #3 and #4 'cause they are more of the same, but only now you take a stand against Tomb Raider games?

Heck, I remember IGNPSX not rating a sports game because it was exactly the same as another... some Nagano game? This is the exact same thing... same old idea in different locations.

Next time a game series starts turning for the worst, don't be nice in your review... let 'em have it.


I agree 100%, I got tired of Tomb Raider after the 2nd game. Eidos is really eating it right now, and they deserve it. For the last few years they have been handing us the same exact game with absolutely no innovation or originality in game play. You said that Eidos should wait and put out another Tomb Raider game for the PS2 and do something that will knock out socks off. I hate to tell you man, but that's just not gonna happen. Eidos got complacent and now there in a position where not only do they not know how to make the game good, but even if they wanted to, they don't have the skills to pull it off.

Regards- Eddie Oakenfold


I really enjoyed TR one and two, so like many others I went and preordered TR III. I was so pissed off at the game that I never bothered to finish the 4th level. It was nothing it was promised to be. I had a feeling that IV would be the same way because it came out so soon after III. Tomb Raider IV just came out, and now we are getting V so soon? Eidos has transformed themselves into one of least respected companies ever. They have no idea what real gamers want. Who the heck keeps buying the crappy games??? Eidos should follow Konami's lead and put out a game only when it's DONE!!! Just look at the long-time-in-the-making-but-flawless-so-it's-still-making-money Metal Gear Solid. Eidos doesn't deserve high stock prices or my money until they make better games.


Greetings,

Why oh why, Eidos? Does anybody in the company even play the games they produce on the PlayStation?! Tomb Raider specifically is a huge problem. To be perfectly blunt, the whole franchise needs a makeover. Yes, I want another Tomb Raider; in fact I really really really want one. The fact is if I have to sit through another pathetic updated PlayStation Tomb Raider (read Expansion-Pack for $50), I'm going to explode.

If they want to fix Tomb Raider, I feel they need to look directly at the core of the problem... Core. Throughout the series they seem to have a superb knack of cheating their way out of being a one-hit-wonder company because simply, I really don't feel they have the capacity to take Lara any further. First off, Lara needs to go on to the PS2; I mean come on, the time has come (although where Lara goes at any given time is Eidos' decision, not cores). Secondly, with her transition into the next generation, she DESPERATELY needs a physical facelift. Her three-dimensional representation is rather lame in it's current form in comparison to such genuinely attractive cyber chicks like Reiko Nagase. Think of what a little proportional photo-realism could do to Lara?

Next off, get-a-NEW-engine. Honestly, I'd rather they license the Quake 3 engine than have them rehash their ugly, utilitarian, Lego building block engine. Sorry, swinging ropes do NOT amount to an 'advanced and improved new engine'.

Overall, with the arrival of the next-generation Lara is in dire need of a real makeover. Eidos have been riding the exact same Lara since the original and it's time for a little action. It wouldn't be so bad if it weren't such an easy task! Even a lowly fool like me could turn Lara into a fresh figure!

Come on Eidos/Core -- WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?!

Liam Coonan, Australia, 17


It is truly unbelievable that Eidos would even consider making another Tomb Raider for the original PlayStation. I own both a PlayStation and a Dreamcast and I was upset when I realized that The Last Revelation will be available on the Dreamcast within the next few weeks. Had I known that I would not have purchased the PlayStation version as the DC version will obviously be superior. With the PS2 so close on the horizon, what really makes Eidos think that any of us want a crappy low-res version of an already over-exposed franchise? I love the Tomb Raider series but even I am sick of it right now. If Eidos was smart they would wait 6-12 months and release a PS2 version that could really wow us and make us fall in love with Lara all over again. Incidentally I think that Squaresoft is making a similar mistake with Final Fantasy 9. It disgusts me that the PS2 will have been released for numerous months by the time the game is released and yet we'll still be forced to play old technology. It really makes you wonder about the sense of the people running these companies. I'd like to hear any of your responses to my letter if you have the time.

Thanks for reading.


IGN,

I have read your article on Eidos and a possible new game in the Tomb Raider series, and agree with it whole-heartedly.

As far as I am concerned, Eidos should have stopped after TR2. Everything after that did not provide anything new to game players. I acknowledge that the game concept is good but I strongly believe that enough is enough and a major overhaul is required to any new TR game if it is to be a success - and if Eidos want to regain their status near the top of the gaming industry.

Your article hit the nail of the head. Time for Eidos to put their thinking caps on and come up with something that will leave us in awe - and I do not mean another pair of impossibly large breasts. Eidos have milked that concept enough!!!!

Regards,
Nick.


Dear IGN,

I couldn't place more emphasis on how much I agree with your standpoint on the seemingly endless amount of drivel Eidos drools. It is obvious they have no idea what the public want or Tomb raider 3 and 4 wouldn't have been released. The first instinct I had when the first level of TR 3 started was "What the hell am I doing." What an imaginative way to start a level, sliding down a hill with possibly the worst textures on the planet adorning its blocky slopes. Oh shit look there are some spikes which have just killed me. Why? Because I had no warning that natives put spikes on frickin' hills in the middle of a badly realized jungle.

Well I got to the third level, cried for a while and I've never played it again. Now onto the subject of Tomb raider 4. Back to the roots my arse. TR4 is not a bad game in itself and certainly better than 3 but when I see a game franchise with not a single fundamental change made since its birth it pisses me off. They have destroyed the image of Lara Croft and I for one am sick of that damned 3D engine, which is over 4 years old. Core and Eidos are beginning to smell of EA. Another company I despise with a burning passion.

Let's start a petition to halt all production of TR 5 or V and we will stop this desert of a game once and for all. Please IGN you must stop them. Before it is too late. Before I am forced to enter their offices adorned in leather shorts and a green t - shirt to destroy, maim, kill and murder them all. See what Lara did to me, I'm a frickin' gun toting maniac.

Yours sincerely,
Matthew Bryan


Dear IGN,

After reading about the plans of Eidos and the soon-to-be rehacked version of Tomb Raider, I have come to a conclusion..... I believe their board of directors must stink. Yes, it's true that I loved TR1. TR2, I thought, was even better with the added presence of humans with sub-machine guns! I played TR3 for about...oh I don't know ....three maybe four minutes. It just seemed that they were hashing the good ol' TR1 with a face lift. I do believe that IGN is right in saying that maybe Eidos should hold off until Sony hits the stores with PS2. I think if Eidos even hired a former Pulitzer Prize winner to write an excellent storyline, they wouldn't be able to get it off of the ground. The truth is that Eidos should have stopped at TR2 and left it at that. I think the gamers have lost respect for Eidos, I know I have. I mean, look at Blizzard Entertainment. Every game they have ever come out with has won the hearts of gamers...Diablo, Warcraft Series, Starcraft, and Broodwar. Blizzard simply gets the respect of the consumer because of careful planning, intuitive game design, well thought-out stories and never ending patience. Fans have been waiting for Diablo 2 since the fourth quarter of 1998. The reason being is because their staff cares, they take the time to get it right, and if it isn't, they go back again and again until it is perfect. I have to tell you as an avid fan of the first two Tomb Raiders..... that Eidos messed up on third, botched up the fourth and probably created the fifth one over a bottle of gin and sour mix. Hey Eidos...let it go, follow the examples of Blizzard Entertainment and have the patience to hold on what little story-line and ideas are left and use it for when the PS2 comes out...and then make a very worth while sequel!!

Thanks to IGN for letting me get this off of my chest!

Sincerely,
Matthew Bowen


IGN people,

I quit playing the tomb raider series after T2 and can not believe that Eidos would even think about making a fifth, which is what they must have been drinking before the meeting to go with this stupid idea. (enough with pulling out boxes and making jumps already...yada yada...and do they think she's so hot we will never get bored looking at her ass from behind ) . Come on now this goes to show a lack of creativity on their part. The game market has had enough of these " cookie cutter " games, for example the whole DOOM, DUKE NUKEM, FORSAKEN...etc. thing, Tons of football, basketball, racing, fishing blah blah blah even a lot of the RPG's have the same feel. These companies keep releasing more and more of these games that are the same thing over and over with some improvements to graphics or more weapons. UUHHH... Come on guys !!! With such a great medium as Computer Graphics anything is possible. Let's open our minds and let the creative juices flow. Give us something fresh and new and I 'm sure the market will respond, we are all looking for new games with new concepts to get into. How about a game that combines all the game styles like start off driving a car then scuba dive , fly a jet to an island and land it, then enter the caves and find your way to the warp gate that takes you to another world with environments that morph, twist and bend beyond reality and maybe your character changes into something totally different than when you started. I mean this is off the top of my head and at least sounds interesting ! Well with all that said 2 big thumbs down for yet another Tomb Raider and one cheer for their latest Fear Effect, even though it is the same old thing but with a new graphical look . I really, really, hope the PS2 games don't fall victim to making " Polished up game clones". Nuff' said.

Sneakyninja1


I have no problem with the Tomb Raider concept or the character, but we need it in an all new game. The current game we keep getting is the same boring, annoying, tired game. I bought Tomb Raider IV and was having some fun with it (Tomb Raider III was TOTALLY unplayable), this was a little better. But then I got Medal of Honor and within seconds was totally hooked and never looked back. If they can change the game formula to be fun, exciting and action-packed (and it was on PlayStation 2) Tomb Raider V could be a winner. Otherwise, I don't think anyone would buy another rehashed piece of crap.

Adam D. Hoover
Allstate Insurance


Well, I for one am shocked to hear this craziness that is TR5...I mean come on Eidos you win back my heart with Fear Effect and then go and break it a week later with this bogus info (Love stinks). I will NOT purchase Tomb Raider 5, I may rent it MAYBE and that's a biiiiiig maybe, but after the last two mediocre titles I've just about had it. The first two were excellent, but after that it was all-downhill and my hard earned cash at the end of the year will be spent on good games (they will be good right?) like FF9, Dragon Quest 7 and Lunar EB. In closing I'd like to say that I agree with those two fear effect bashers that it is annoying to die as much as you do and it is unfair that in many parts of the game you are given no chance to survive the first few tries, BUT the game is sill excellent, Beautiful to look at and has a great story. You complain when games are too easy, you complain when they are too hard, you complain when they are in between.........These days you cant please anyone......Keep up the good work peoples @ IGN.


I thoroughly agree with your article. I loved Tomb Raider (the first one), it was original, it was totally refreshing and new. I attempted to play Tomb Raider II, but lost interest before finishing it. I've never been able to played another Tomb Raider since then.

Too me, the Tomb Raider series has lost its magic, and I believe, primarily because Toby (and the other original cast who made Tomb Raider) left. The rest of the team there at Core don't have the magic. What Eidos needs to do is to endorse Toby's new company. They're just making Tomb Raider a commodity item.

When you think of it, I never heard of Eidos prior to Tomb Raider--it was this game that put Eidos on the map. Now foolishly, its this game this will take them off it again, because of their greedy, narrow-mindedness blurring their ability to see that they are over saturating the market with too many Tomb Raider series that are mediocre and uninspiring.

Vincent Osborne


Another Tomb Raider!!!! Someone take me out in the street and shoot me, please!

Ouch!


Just thought I'd drop a quick note on Tomb Raider 5. Personally, if I'm interested in a new game, I'll head down to the local Game rental spot, pay my 3 bucks, and try it out first. This way of operating has saved me a buck or two (especially concerning the TR series).

Tomb Raider 1 was awesome, every other SUCKED! With each new addition, Eidos claims to be returning to it's roots. You're right in saying it's a great marketing scheme 'cause that's all it is. When I saw TR5 I was hoping it might be for PS2 (maybe then we'll see improvements). If we, the consumers, keep buying this fluff, we're merely endorsing this pitiful future series of lack-luster games. Long story short (too late, I know), my word to Eidos is to just give up OR do some friggin' work for a change.


Tomb Raider is now known as a game series that advances on the technical side but falls backward on the enjoyment. I see no reason why should there be another TR on our consoles, plus Eidos should stop releasing TR on an annual basis. I was greatly entertained with the original TR, I was disappointed with TR2, I threw the controller down with TR3 and I criticized Eidos for their stupidity with TR:LR.

Eidos should realize that Tomb Raider is really past its prime of entertainment, and high-sales does not always mean entertainment for the fans. Oh yeah, Lara Croft should suck all of those TR CDs into her stomach!


I agree with Doug Perry's rant. The game hasn't been improved at all. Soul Reaver is a better Tomb Raider game than any of TR's own sequels. And I don't give a crap about seeing Lara Croft plastered over everything. If I want tits-n-ass I'll go to a smut shop.

--Andrew Lee Hunn


Primarily I'm just stunned at this news, and, this by far has been the first article that has led me to write you guys a letter. Amazing isn't it. Indeed, what in blue blazes is this company thinking? Seriously, if anyone has the sense not to stare from this one, they might as well forward me credit info. You see this is how bad the later serious has made a majority of people feel. We don't really expect much now. The feel of you're actually going to get something this time around is just not there, and, that just forces you to go..."so what?". Maybe it's going to made for the DC to? Does graphics truly overpower Gameplay? Well, I don't think so. I just wish let her rest or do it from scratch all over. Even rewrite the damn code for it or call it quits. Enough is enough, for real. I'VE SEEN ENOUGH and I haven't played enough!!!! Where's the gameplay? Are they promising us this finally? [again]

Don't tell me they are going to add RPG elements to this thing now. But, you know that might not be a bad idea and at the same time it would force them to do it from the ground up hence satisfying a few people at most. So would you buy it then with that in mind, when you're saving all your money for PS2 applications and or even Vagrant Story? I don't... you know what...it's not even worth it to write about this.. bye...

ARGHHH ....

D.Didier


I think Eidos is showing it's true colors with this announcement of a new Tomb Raider game and those colors show that Eidos doesn't give a crap about what we gamers would like to see. Somehow Eidos got the idea that it could throw anything it felt like at us no matter how buggy or underdeveloped it was and we would be stupid enough to go buy it. A good example is Revenant, I thought that game had a lot of potential with a unique story and beautiful environments and I went out and bought that game as soon as it hit stores. You can imagine how pissed I was after I installed it and instead of being treated to a great game experience I ended up with the chore of trying to ignore the horrendous frame rate and constant bugs that plagued the game. Eidos needs to get it through their thick greedy skulls that it was the gamers that made them one of the biggest development companies in the industry and if they keep jerking us around it will be the gamers that will bring them down. We are not mindless fools for you to take advantage of Eidos, either clean up your act or suffer the consequences. Beware you have been warned!!! (sorry got a little carried away there at the end. hehe)

P.S. Just wanted to say you guys have a great Website and thanks for keeping the info coming.

Jake Rumpf


Eidos has indeed sunk to a new all time low. I have been a fan of the Tomb Raider series since its inception and I am finally tired of seeing the same damn game. Tomb Raider 1 was an original and innovative game that has been milked for all it is worth by Eidos. After the release of Tomb Raider 3, I thought that Eidos should stop the series on the existing PlayStation and wait for the PS 2. I was pleased when I heard that Tomb 4 would be "The Last Revelation." I thought that Eidos had learned its lesson, they had learned that a quality game cannot be produced in under a year and rushed to the stores. I was obviously wrong. The making of Tomb Raider 5 will be the last straw to fans that are waiting for bigger and better things from the series on the Next Generation systems. I can only speak for myself, but I refuse to pay for another crappy edition to this series just because it has Lara Croft and the Tomb Raider name on the box.

Jay


I remember when the first TR came out. My friend Mike rented it on the Sega Genesis and we played with Laura till the time the stupid thing had to be returned. We went back to rent it again the following week and we ended up getting it on the PSX (We didn't even have a PSX or Genesis we just rented the game and the platform at the same time). We played it all night long and left it on pause for a whole 5 hours cause we didn't even have a memory card. The point is we bought a PSX just so we didn't have to rent it anymore so we could play TR and Resident Evil. Those two game are perhaps the only reasons we bought a PSX. I thought TRII was fun and even three was decent but they were the exact same game. I didn't even bother with the 4th one and I really can't believe they are coming out with a 5th. The original TR was a breath of fresh air but now the rest of the series is about as welcome as LA's smog. To be quite honest there really hasn't been that many games that have captivated me the way the original TR did.

~John Ingle


Thank you for your words of wisdom, which I have been thinking for the last three games of the Tomb Raider series. I am so tired of the series and its many rip-offs being shoved the gaming public's throats. Do they even listen to what everyone, including yourselves, have been saying for the last year and a half?! The series is dead so find another flavor of the month to tantalize our taste buds! Well, at least someone shares my sentiments. Thanks.

Gamer and Software Sales Associate
Matthew Windham


Eidos has hit a new low. I totally agree that what Eidos should do is give Lara a rest for two years. In two years they could really rethink and remold Lara into something fresh and exiting. I was a huge TR fan up until number three, which I found buggy, confusion, and boring to play. I rented TR4 for five days and it only took one hour to realize Eidos/Core had learned nothing, so I went back to the store on day one and returned it. What's worse is that now Eidos is shoving the same tired game down Dreamcast's throat. Here is my advice for Eidos/Core: cancel the game, cancel the movie, cancel the comic book, and cancel everything else having to do with Tomb Raider. They should all quit their jobs and start an accounting firm. This way they will be free to count money all day long without bothering the rest of us. Eidos/Core we hate you. You are the worst company on the face of the earth. I would rather hang out with people who make oil spills, beat baby seals, and make games for Acclaim than to spend one second of my time with any of you.


It's a joke. I was trying to play Tomb Raider 3 and I just got fed up. Even with a damn strategy guide, the game is still painfully frustrating. It's no fun at all. The point of video games is to be fun, and the Tomb Raider games stopped being fun after # 2. I liked the first 2 a lot, but the series has just gone done hill. I felt like I had to play # 3 because I finished the first 2, but I honestly don't care anymore. The hell with # 4. They should of made the series better, and instead they made it worse. There no excuse for this. We don't want crappy games. Just give us at least good, preferably amazing games for crying out loud! They could at least tried to revitalize the series on the PS2, but instead they choose to ram another Tomb Raider game down our throats by the end of year. What the hell are they thinking? Does anybody honestly think the game is going to be any better than the last 2? You would thing by now, because of all the negative reviews the last 2 games have gotten, that they would get the message. Like you guys said, they should be trying to build on the success of Fear Effect, which I look forward to playing, unlike another stupid Tomb Raider game.

Peace,
Kujo


What happened to Eidos, where did all the genius that created the first TR go? The original TR will always bring me fond memories, because it was a game that truly made me proud of being a gamer. Regrettably the series has gone from a shinning example of game design to a unbearable rehash. I want to remind everyone that when the first TR came out 3D adventure games were rare, if not existent. TR1 was so memorable because it broke new ground in the industry, it was a pioneer, and TR did something that makes a game a classic:

it opened new possibilities for the gamer!

Alas, Eidos made the choice to release sequel after sequel of the same original game without any significant changes, and in doing so the game lost its sense of awe. Doug pass this message to Eidos if you can: Tomb Raider was never about Lara Croft, the reason the people bought the first game was because the game allowed the player to do things that were impossible in the past, not because of a digital beddette. Eidos get this through your collective thick skulls: Give us new possibilities, not just more of the same. Sincerely,

Juan D. Perez


I loved Tomb Raider 1 (it's why I bought a PlayStation), liked TR 2, hated TR 3, rented and despised TR 4 -- so much so that I won't even buy an Eidos product any more. To me, "Eidos" is now synonymous with "rip off." I rejoice in the fact that the company is floundering and that their stock is taking a dump. They deserve it.

--B. Gale


It is absolutely beyond me that Eidos is actually creating another Tomb Raider for the Play Station. I would challenge anyone to find somebody who spent more of their valuable study time than I did playing the first two Tomb Raiders while I was in college. I was so impressed with the Tomb Raider series that I wasted no time in purchasing TR3. As I eagerly put the disk in the drive and awaited the game to begin, I continued to wait for the action, the new twists, the new features, the new dangers, and the new anything. Not only did this game not offer anything new, it actually regressed in the excitement and wonder department of the first two games. This game was so bad I had to get a strategy guide just for incentive to finish it, but even that was not enough. I never wanted to use a strategy guide before because to me it always felt like I was cheating, there was always a sense of accomplishment when you could figure out a tricky puzzle or escape impending danger on the fly. TR3 was so bad that the strategy guide was neither helpful nor a deterrent in gaining my interest. Because of how bad my experience was with TR3 I never even considered picking up TR4, even with all of its hype about returning back to its roots. That in itself is proof that Eidos has run out of Tomb Raider thrills and ideas for the PlayStation. Hopefully Eidos can redeem itself on the new PS2 system with an improved TR engine, but will that even be enough? The adventure was the best part of the first two Tomb Raiders(especially the first one), so without a decent story line and creativity can the fancy graphics be enough? And to be even talking about a fifth installment of the TR series on the original PlayStation, I can't believe that this is even a topic! Eidos has taken a great game milked it for all it's worth and drove it into the ground. Their only hope to save Laura Croft now is to use enhanced graphics to dress(or undress) her up on the PS2 and hope that the only reason people want to play Tomb Raider is to see how life like Laura Croft can get. Because they have proven themselves to be out of ideas for compelling game play even equal to the original game.

A Jordan


DIE CROFT DIE!


I think EIDOS should hang it up. I gave up after (more like, during) Tomb Raider 3. I could understand the impossible game controls of TR and even TR II, but with 3 I really thought they'd move away from the "make sure you're exactly .002 centimeters to the left of where you need to jump, hit X, then quickly hit X again to grab the ledge, while holding R2 and O to appropriately execute the move..." The Tomb Raider series is a lesson in absolute frustration.

TR was cool because it was new. I pretty much avoided TR2 just, because. I bought TR3 because they talked about how vastly improved the play mechanics were, etc. etc. I think I've played 1.5 levels in that game. Bore-f---ing!! TR4, I didn't even bother. I was thrilled to hear that it was the "last" TR game for PSX. Now, number 5?? For PSX??? Let me guess, all of the things that pissed people off about TR3 and 4 will be "revamped" for TR5. Ultimately, we'll be left with another yawner in which Lara can now do jumping jacks. I'm not saying I wouldn't want to see that, but it ain't gonna get me to shell out $39.99.

If EIDOS can come up with a TR that plays more like LoK: Soul Reaver or even Shadowman (for N64. PSX version SUCKS) I'll be ALL OVER IT. I don't see that happening.

Kirk
Seattle


I can't say I've ever felt directly threatened by the Tomb Raider series, since I only played TRII for about five minutes at a friend's house before I decided to go back across the room to where everyone else had their drawing pads out and were developing their OWN heavy-chested characters with guns. It seems to me that Eidos can dig their own tomb if they want; I've never liked a single game of theirs. Most of them just never looked right, and the ones that did always fell short for me (Cutthroats for the PC comes to mind here).

Maybe an enhancement for the next game could be something along the lines of "Curse of the Tomb Raider," where the spirits of all those old kings Lara has disturbed come back to haunt her and she must fight for her life, or maybe even for peace in her afterlife. Y'know, some cross-genre foray into survival horror or something. They could do like in "Scream," where her breasts get larger the more danger she's in--or perhaps the lower her heath gets. Just a thought.

BTW, I love your site. It has a relaxed, possibly even mature feel to it. No, "mature" is probably not the word. Well, how about this: if mature people can make monkey jokes, then your site has a mature feel to it.

Cheers,
Brother Marcus Surrealius

Readers Speak Out On Tomb Raider, Part II (2000)

IGNPSX's readers give their take on Eidos' plans to release Tomb Raider V for PlayStation.

by IGN Staff - March 3, 2000

This whole TR5 announcement and reaction has me down. I own the entire series. I just recently got TR2, when it went on clearance. Aside from that I can speak about all of them.

I beat TR3 about a year ago. At the time I didn't even know people thought it was so incredibly difficult. It made me feel better when I found out that, as I did refer to a walkthrough several times throughout the game, along with using a code to get a bunch of save-crystals. Other than that I beat it on my own and enjoyed it. I will confess that I never attempted to replay it.

I've really had a good time with TR4, I'm even sad that I'll probably finish it this weekend. This game is far superior to 3. I actually know what my goal is after I watch the cut-scenes. The story also makes far more sense, even though they stopped making the really nice CG movies about a quarter of the way into the game.

But in my opinion, some of the puzzles are better than good, they're pure genius. Take the puzzle where you have to arrange a series of globes on a map of their paths through space. Knowing that the Egyptians were geocentric, I was smart enough to put the Earth in the middle, as opposed to the sun, and worked from there. It was easy, but clever. Then, there is a puzzle where you have to pull levers on fire-spouting dragon statues arranged around a circle, and also connected in sets of three by lines on the floor. Each time you light one, the other two on it's path light up too. But as you go around the circle you find that if you pull the levers consecutively they will put out fires that are already lit on their overlapping paths. If you know much about math, it's easy to see that you have to pull every-other lever as you go around the circle. I think many of these puzzles were lost on people.

Do I want to see a TR5 on PS? No. I was hoping it would happen on the PS2. I also agree that the series needs some major innovation...but what series doesn't? If CORE can't come up with new ideas I'd rather not see a new TR. But I still think many are too harsh on this set of games.

I'm willing to give Syphon Filter's Gabe slack even though he runs like an idiot and I have to use the walls to direct him more than I would in any racing game (heck I love that game). When puzzles don't make sense in RE3 and FE, we all tend to give them slack, too.

I think TR's biggest fault is it's over popularity. I bet even the Backstreet Boys seemed respectable before they got way too much money and attention to do way too little.

Lara has her place though. Too many games revolve around shooting things. TR games are about running and jumping to solve puzzles. If you just want to blow stuff up, don't buy these games. Me? I can't think of another game that belongs in the same genre...much less replace TR.

Oh, and I hate reading long letters, so I assure you that I wouldn't have written this if I hadn't really meant it. Steve N.


I don't agree with your ideology. I am a fan of the series and although TR 3 was pretty piss poor compared to TR 1, i still enjoyed it very much. There aren't too many games out there that you can pick up and spend hours on and adventure through exciting places finding new things like in Tomb Raider...even though its frustrating. It's very similar to an rpg. And until a third adventure game does a better job than Tomb Raider has (yes, Kain wasn't as good), than I see no reason why sequels should not continue to come out.


Hey Doug, All of this Tomb Raider hatred going around. All of you Tomb Raider haters forget one thing: EIDOS is just responding to the video game market. If people would voice their opinion and STOP BUYING DAMN THE TOMB RAIDER GAMES, I'm sure EIDOS will realize that the series is not profitable anymore. EIDOS is only responding to the video game market. If the previous Tomb Raider games didn't sell well, the series would not be profitable and the stockholders wouldn't be too happy that another bomb is being made. The Tomb Raiders had to be selling well in order to spawn so many worthless sequels. If you really want your video game voices heard, nothing speaks louder than sales numbers. Just look at Superman 64. If you truly want an end to the TR series, then STOP buying the games. It isn't EIDOS' fault that gamers are buying their crappy games. That only propels them to keep making crappier games. Actions speak louder than words. -- IV


I love playing Tomb Raider and I am waiting for the new one to come out. I will always enjoy all the tomb games. I think there are a lot of gamers who like to play with Lara Croft. She is bad and sexy and we like to see her. I do think they should start number five where the forth one left off. That would be cool to start the game with Lara holding to the ledge and then she would let go and fall down into a underground river and have to swin out to safety, that would be cool. Well I love her and her games, so keep them coming.


I won't go on about the whole Tomb Raider V controversy, TR3 almost put me off it forever.

Now you know how i feel about the issue, but what concerns me is the amount of other sequels that are being pushed down the consumers throat. I'm tired of seeing the endless churn outs of games that are basically out for a quick buck. I'm talking about the Fifa's/Bandicoots/Resident Evils and many others who are also to blame, not just Tomb RaiderV. Although '99 had its share of great original games -Driver/Tony Hawk/Soul Reaver. I am concerned for these games as they too will be made sequels out of. Will they lose the quality of their originals? how many sequels do we intend to see before these games will bore us to death like the TR series. Will even the mighty Gran Turismo turn into a same old formula series?.

I'm starting to see signs that the future is not all the bright. I have hopes that there will be some fresh new original games that will appear on the PS2. The Bouncer looks like a hopeful.

For now the only game i'm looking forward to is Fear Effect. It looks good and it doesn't have a III, IV or V next to it. I've also gone looking for classic games like Castlevania SOTN to satisfy my gaming needs. I love to play a wide variety of games, but when it comes to repetition, I don't want to waste my time. Gary Morris


Tomb Raider 5 might be cool...
Ok, I read your section on TR5, and was only a bit surprised on how many people hate the game. Anyway, I'm one of the few people who might actually buy the next game. Why? Because I love games. Before anyone complains, many great games have a ton of sequels, but I keep playing 'em, look at Mega Man X, Final Fantasy, and even Mario, Zelda, etc. I'd love to get more of 'em. I also think part of this is that a LOT of people had trouble with TR3. While the game was quite difficult, I actually managed to beat it without cheating. I did get stuck a few times, but eventually I figured out what to do. Some people can complain that they need to change things, and I think that some changes are ok, but don't go too far. For example, I used to love Twisted Metal and Jet Moto. Now that 989 took over, they changed the game too much, and I don't like them at all. I do have to agree with people a bit too, cause Eidos did say TR4 was the last one. This makes me think that they need money or something. Hopefully this will be the final one, and they'll start to work on PS2. I can't wait for the next generation of games.


I whole-heartedly disagree with you, I think that TR was one of the best games for the PSX, TR2 was not so great, and TR3 I just couldn't get motivated about, HOWEVER, TR4 is GREAT, I have not finished it but....it has all of the atmosphere and appeal of the first TR and a whole lot more. I have recommended TR4 to all of my friends. In fact, if I had to choose 5 games and only FIVE games out of 100's, I would have to choose: 1) Tenchu
2) Gran Turismo
3) Tomb Raider4
4) Tomb Raider
5) Tekken3
So lay off of the trash speak toward EIDOS. You know, there are other software writers out there that ...if you want to trash for [crappy] software I can give you their sites..and cite the titles. I am a game Guru, and I have been gaming most of my 31 years, so I feel as though I am somewhat of an authority as to what's good and what really sucks. Personally, you guys have really raved about some games that I and some of my gaming friends, really thought had been hyped way too much, and maybe that you had taken bribes to "WOW!!" it. And don't tell me that you guys don't take investments in the "Self-fund", I'm sure that it's hard to not take a bribe, after all it's only journalism, right?

[Editor's note: We take bribes from everybody, it's just that we're mad at Eidos for doling out such a measly portion for Tomb Raider IV, so this is just paypack. (And for really those literal folks, we're just kidding)]


I actually enjoy the series, have completed all the Tomb Raider games of before and am currently halfway through Tomb Raider IV and it's fun!! The game's designed to be difficult and challenging and it's only right that it should be to make it more worthwhile then its' predecessors. For those that don't like all the plodding, find an easier game cause this one's for the players who want a little challenge. Keola


Hello there,
I usually don't write feedback letters because I feel they will fall on blind eyes, but the latest news I heard about another Tomb Raider has really infuriated me. And from the sheer fact that I'm writing, I'm sure you can tell just how pissed off I am. I just finished The Last Revelation today (ironically), and boy was I hoping it would be the last time I would have to take control of Lara with its mediocre configuration of the analog controller. You don't know how many times I had to re-load the game due to a glitch in the controller, which would cause me to plummet to my death or fall onto a floor full of spikes. I think Eidos has no respect for its fans. They just want to attempt to grab more money from our pockets without delivering any good gameplay. I remember when I got the first Tomb Raider- it kept me up many nights, and I honestly felt that Eidos was a company I could count on for some quality gaming in the future. I wasn't horribly disappointed with TRII because I'm sort of anal about a game's save capabilities, and I was just so happy that I could save it wherever I wanted. But TRIII was just [frickin'] ridiculous. I paid around $55 for the [crappiest] game ever- including Blasto- well maybe not that bad... I agree with the writers on this one that Eidos really should consider working on a better project for the next Tomb Raider on PS2. I mean, after I finished Last Revelation today, I knew they left it open for another sequel- what with Lara supposedly dying but the player never seeing the dead body... Well, that's my two, or maybe even three cents on Lara and this new godforsaken project. If you have the means, please convey this message to Eidos and the [people] responsible for TR-V. Also tell them that Fear Effect kicks ass. Take care, gOAt


This is ridiculous and absurd. I thought The Last Revelation was "The Last Revelation? I do have all four of the series but I must have been under a Laura spell when I bought this Last one. It was ridiculously difficult to not only to solve the tiresome puzzles, but just controlling Laura's moves was a real strain. I saw glitches sand items even came up missing in my inventory. To say the least, the game frustrated the heck out of me.

Now as much as I have bashed the Last Revelation, I would be remotely interested in a Tomb for the PS/2, just to see the improvement in the graphics, etc.. But I beg Eidos not to make another for the old PS/1; this would be a waste of time.


On a slightly different topic...
He (or she) who bashes this game can bite it. I mean, honestly...I've been playing videogames since I was a wee lad (6 years-old) and Fear Effect is without a doubt one of the most well designed, most brilliantly envisioned games ever. Needless to say, it ranks among the likes of Zelda, the RE series, and FF series in terms of the story. This story is done with such graphical prowess it makes my head spin. Am I really playing a PlayStation game? C'mon...tell me when you all weren't watching the cut scene with evil Zeke looking like the T-1000 when he gets a hole blown in his head thinking to yourself, "Oh, my sweet God, please don't let me wake up." I know I was. And the cut-scene when you kill him, simply breathtaking. I just finished the game on normal and I am happy to say I'm genuinely looking forward to playing it again to get the true ending and fight the true boss. Sure...the endings (all four of the ones I saw anyway) were too short, and the looped animations were far too noticeable, but, in the end, Fear Effect not only managed to impress me, (which rarely happens on PlayStation's tired console these days) it completely blew me away. A total of 87 times to be exact. Just kidding...I think. This is, by far, Eidos' best effort and I can barely contain my bladder when I think about a sequel on the PS2. People would have been much more receptive to this game had it come out a year ago. Oh well...I'm more pleased than I ever imagined I would be...Bravo Eidos...Bravo Kronos. And here's to Fear Effect 2, may it be swift and sure. And as final comments to all trash talkers out there...

1. Maybe if you learned from your mistakes you wouldn't die in the same place 300 times.

2. Often times there are multiple death animations for making the same mistake. These are so freak'n awesome it actually prompted me to save my game all the time and die on purpose so I could bathe in the beautiful (and I mean beautiful) blood. Death in this game wasn't a chore. Quit griping.

3. Bottom line...LEARN HOW TO PLAY A VIDEO GAME AND THIS ONE WON"T SEEM AS FRUSTRATING.In tender loving and support, Nick


Hello Douglass, I do agree. Tomb Raider 5 is the worst marketing move Eidos could think of. Although it's not completely off the mark, since the PS2 does offer complete backwards compatibility, so people can still play the product on the next-gen system. However, I think this cow's been milked enough. For me, the first Tomb Raider was an incentive to buy a PlayStation console (that, and the ominous Resident Evil). Full 3D exploration coupled with awesome music (I still enjoy the original theme as well as the Midas Palace ditty) and graphics (at that time) made you really feel 'out there.'

On came Tomb Raider 2. More of the same, but that was okay by me; as long as the exploration bit was still there, and it was. A pity the graphics started to look extremely dated (horrible facial textures), and didn't I hear the exact same music in part one?

The last and only Tomb Raider I bought is number three. I really enjoyed this game, thanks to its high difficulty level, and the few new tunes were cool (as you might've noticed, music is extremely important for me =). But the graphics started to become extremely dated, and the game wasn't quite stacked with 'real' innovations.

Today, number 4 is roaming the markets. After playing the preview level on PC, I knew enough. Don't even think about buying that piece of drivel which pales significantly in comparison to many titles. I 'could' be buying it, but hmm... there's also Final Fantasy 8/9, Resident Evil 3, Chrono Cross, Parasite Eve 2, Vagrant Story, Gran Turismo 2... oh, let me see... which of these titles would I pass up in favor of TR4?

Considering the short development time and the fact TR5 will appear on Playstation 1, I'm pretty sure that the new title will be an exact copy of TR4. Unless Eidos starts thinking along the lines of "Hmm, we must invest time and money in a PS2 title with an all-new engine and clever game concepts", they're doomed. As seen from the many reactions here, we're fed up with the situation. Innovate, not renovate...

Suffering the most, is Lara Croft herself. Being a gaming icon, she doesn't deserve to go down like this. But hey, it's in Eidos' hands, not ours. I hope that Eidos reads IGNPSX and I hope that they can draw their conclusions out of it. I rest my two cents :). VMerken, Belgium.


Everybody that works/worked at Eidos on anything other than Tomb Raider have been saying this for years. We were also forced into making sub standard product as all resources were poured into Lara and her oversized chest. Yours, An Ex-Long-term member of the Eidos dev team working for a decent developer now though :-)


Dear IGN,
STOP IT!! I really enjoy getting your stuff in my email all the time, but not when your gonna knock a game like Tomb Raider. See, you have to look at it like this: Tomb Raider is NOT for everyone. It's a game that requires you to think, use your head, and act quickly. It's one of the if not THE best strategy game ever made. Some people just aren't mentally fit to handle Tomb Raider, and thats what i think of the editor who wrote that. I praise Eidos in making Tomb Raider games, because it takes action and adventure to whole new heights with realistic environments. I like Tomb Raider, and everyone I know who played the TR series liked it and we cant wait for TR5 to come out. I really hope Eidos makes a TR6 for the PSX2 as well. Thank you for your time. -- Bushido


I am one of many people I know who love this series. I did not like the third and thought it was rushed, frustrating and really not what the tomb raider series embodies. The fourth though is a very good game. I feel the step forward in graphics is finally acceptable and the puzzles are inventive and interesting enough to push through. If Eidos wants to take a large step forward again with this license lets hope they do it with creativity, originality and ambition. Doing it for the psx2 would be a good idea as well. The psx has had it's share of games. I love the series I'm happy to see another one on the way. I just hope it has more new features.


I am a long-term fan of Tomb Raider and I think that Tomb Raider V will be awesome, but at least make it for the playStation1! Some of us don't have $400 to spend on a new system! And since PS2 plays both system's games, I think that they would make more by making it for the PSX. -Zac


Hello, I have loved the tomb raider series for a long time. I remember first playing the first one (and the best one) and being amazed. I was even thinking about buying some of their stock (no joke) I had heard they were going in to a slump and maybe a good time to buy. But I though about a ps2 versions of TR and games like fear effect it would still be a good investment. Now that I hear about TR5 on the ps I am not sure. It sounds like they may be in worst shape then just not having good holiday sales. I also had hoped for a ps2 version of Tomb Raider I would say "wow" and fall in love again. Thank you for reading my ramblings. Thanks, Alex


1. I can't wait for another Tomb Raider!
2. On the end of the third quarter release from Eidos it says," PSX " and PC. It doesn't say which "PSX" system, so I think it is a little to early to be bashing Eidos/Core. Plus the fact that Tomb Raider has sold more than 20 MILLION copies world wide to date!
3. There are MILLIONS of Tomb Raider fans that will buy a new game despite what the press writes or thinks, so there you have it, my opinion!

A Dedicated Tomb Raider Fan


Dear IGNPSX,
Another Tomb Raider game is utter bollocks. The game was brilliant and revolutionary WHEN it was released, now it's crapsticks. There is no originality and the control system is frustratingly slow compared to games coming out now (Soul Reaver was nice). They shouldn't spoil the great memories we've got of a game that surprised and delighted us way back when. They will face a consumer backlash of some kind if they release this game, unless there is a complete overhaul of a drastic nature. Regards, Olly

IGN's Tombraider.com Responds (2000)

After a blast of strongly worded opinions on Tomb Raider V, IGN's diehard TR fan site gives its own.

by IGN Staff - March 8, 2000

Last week, IGN posted an editorial on the prospects of a new Tomb Raider on the PC and PlayStation, and it received a phenomenal amount of response, both positive and negative. Mostly negative. We asked Theresa Jenne, the Editor of Tombraiders.com, to give us her opinion on the ongoing series' fifth iteration.

Rumors indicate that Tomb Raider V will be on the same old gaming engine with "new and improved lighting effects." And with all of the gold that Lara has brought home to Core and Eidos, one would think they would invest a little in Lara's future. Other fans and I had really hoped for a new game engine for Tomb Raider this year. But there is yet a faint glimmer of hope -- I asked Susie from Core Design about Tomb Raider V, and Susie wrote, "Regarding TRV, sorry but our strategy is not yet confirmed so I am not at liberty to give you any information." So we really don't know the true answer -- yet . And having survived two years of Tomb Raider movie rumors, I assure you it is not over until it is over (or Susie speaks!).

What do I think about playing another Tomb Raider game on the PlayStation?

On the PlayStation, the answer is no! Sure, I want to see a new game engine. I have seen Tomb Raider on a PlayStation and it just does not compare to a computer with a good 3D card. (Sorry guys, but that war is over and lost! Even former PlayStation folks agree. But as a consolation, the PlayStation folk really do complain about the idiosyncrasies of a PC.) For Tomb Raider to survive in the PlayStation world, moving up to PlayStation 2 is a necessity. The PlayStation graphics are just outdated. But PlayStation 1 and 2 are not the only gaming platforms on the market, and the exclusive contract between Eidos/ Core and PlayStation is now over.

"Our strategy (for Tomb Raider V) is not yet confirmed" -- (Susie of Core Design)

Strategy, what does it mean? I am speculating, but I think it means "What are the potential sales figures for a game developed for PlayStation, Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, X Box, PC, or Mac for Christmas 2000 and beyond?" Who will win the battle between the gaming platforms? The X Box factor adds a huge wrinkle. How many people will own a PS2 or X box at Christmas?

We still don't know what they are going to do, but Core and Eidos might decide to take a safe, low-risk road for Christmas 2000. Also Eidos shareholders are none too happy at the moment. With the current game engine, they can develop games for the PC, PlayStation, X-box, Dreamcast and the Mac. From what I have read about PlayStation 2, it requires a highly skilled (i.e. expensive) development team. Can a PS2 developed game easily be ported to other platforms? The Microsoft X box should be a huge worry to the PlayStation 2 folks and to game developers. Microsoft has made an art out of creating standards which everybody must follow (or die). Microsoft won the battle between DirectX versus OpenGL or Glide. Microsoft's X Box is a Windows-based console system that runs WIN98/2000 games. Thus, the PC version will play fine on the X Box. (That bit from Michael Perez). So the game developer can easily develop a game for both the PC and the X Box, and we already know that they can port those games to the Dreamcast and the Mac. Bill Gates, the man that people love to hate, has some very deep pockets, so he can afford to take a hit to his wallet to drive out the competition, even if that competition is Sony. I don't know the answer, I am merely speculating on what Core Design and Eidos may be struggling with. (For more opinions, see Tombraiders.com's forum section.

Yes, Core Design may disappoint us and come back with the same old gaming engine. Personally, if it can deliver another game as fun as Tomb Raider Last Revelation (for the PC). Sign me up! Tomb Raider fans will complain, but still run out and buy the game. The very high risk is that was expressed by many that responded -- they simply stopped buying Tomb Raider because they were bored with the same old thing. But a worse move is not having a new Tomb Raider game just in time for Christmas. Right now, Lara Croft still has a loyal following of fans and fan sites. Waiting two years for another Tomb Raider game is more than even a loyal fan can take; plus I would have nothing to do. In order to keep the fan base, they need to release another game for Christmas. The Tomb Raider movie is slated for release in summer 2001, and I would hope that the movie would have a companion Tomb Raider game designed to blow your socks off. (I can hope!)

Theresa Jenne, Editor, Tombraiders.com

Where's My Lara? (2000)

For the first time in four years, Eidos doesn't show Tomb Raider. What happened?

by IGN Staff - May 15, 2000

For the first time since the original Tomb Raider was originally demonstrated at E3 four years ago, Eidos did not show the latest in the Tomb Raider game at E3 this year. The giant, multi-platform publisher instead opted to show new, original games and other franchise console titles, such as Timesplitters, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 2 and Fear Effect Retro Helix.

While IGNPSX saw several Eidos games behind closed doors, Tomb Raider was not shown on the anywhere at E3, according to Eidos. The reason isn't entirely clear, especially since Eidos mentioned in a financial announcement months ago that Core Design was going to start work on Tomb Raider V for PC and PS. Eidos said it hasn't made any new announcements since then. As for the Tomb Raider on PS2, that game is in development and is at least one to two years away.

So, the final story on Tomb Raider V isn't in. In the upcoming months, Eidos is sure to make an announcement, and when it does, we will be there to deliver it to you.

Last, for those absolute diehard Tomb Raider fans, all is not lost. At least there is the buxom Lucy Clarkson. The newest real model in the Tomb Raider list, Clarkson is probably the most racy of them all, as her measurements (32DD, 25, 36) and young age (18) denote true youthful sex appeal. She was definitely there at the booth, and looking great. The best way to describe her is with one word, "WOW."