Review: Tomb Raider: Underworld (360)

The short answer is simply ‘yes’, for Underworld’s negative aspects are in the context of Tomb Raider Angel of Darkness, very minor indeed. With Tomb Raider: Legend, Crystal Dynamics was just getting to grips with the possibilities that Lara can offer.  Aided by Toby Gard it’s clear that Underworld being the eighth instalment in the series, is trying to recapture what made the first two games so great.

A key element were the huge sprawling, ancient and mysterious buildings. Hidden away from the modern world, these abandoned habitats may have suffered some decay, but their traps and puzzles remain intact. These return and form the centrepiece of each level. Overall these are remarkable visions, with some being more successful than offers. The sense of achievement once conquered is very rewarding, given the frustration that may arise as you try to find the right way to reach the next scene.

If you do not enjoy jumping, grappling and solving such mysteries then Underworld won’t be worth savouring. The actual core game play has not changed too much. Yes, Lara is now fully animated and possesses a variety of moves at her disposal, but it still remains solely about finding the path to the treasure. This adventure is interspaced with the occasional motorbike ride or emphasis on gunplay. Our own favourite was a brief nod to the Poseidon Adventure, forcing Lara to use her customary skills in a modern setting. Such elements dilute the platform heart of the title and introduce some novel moments.

The storyline takes place after Legend and for those unfamiliar with that title, there is an option to view previous cinematics. It will help matters and explain Lara’s dislike to certain characters, when they appear. Unsurprisingly the plot throws in several ancient civilisations, some legends and a great deal of travelling across the continents. For Gamestyle the storyline is good without ever being compulsive viewing, Underworld for us simply tries to do too much. Clearly the team have researched each civilisation in great detail, it’s a shame that Lara merely turns up; rampages through a level and then runs off again. More time in each environment, with larger levels and learning a little more about those who built these monuments would have been beneficial. In Underworld Lara seems to be a tourist, armed with a video camera and a destructive streak. A little more care and less globetrotting would be two suggestions for the next adventure.

On the current generation each environment looks tremendous, whether you are underwater, in the jungle or trying to survive in the artic wilderness.  On several occasions Gamestyle just stopped to take in the view and appreciate the design and authenticity on display. Visually Underworld is very strong and is backed up by a fantastic soundtrack, which really captures the feel of events onscreen. However Sony’s Uncharted is a much stronger graphical package, no doubt helped by being developed for a single platform.

The size of the main mode is about right, never outstaying its welcome and leaving players hungry for more. For the real enthusiasts there is the Treasure Hunt option upon completing the main game. Here you can search out those treasure vases you missed first time around, or even the rarer relics. Such activities are built into the Xbox 360 Achievements on offer. Crystal Dynamics has shown some originality here, forcing players to seek out the highest diving points, every treasure item or completing sections within a set time period. The developer has also been actively releasing free costumes on Xbox Live over the past few weeks. Underworld also benefits from an exclusive Microsoft deal to offer further missions via the Live download option, extending the life of the title. Gamestyle will certain review these when they appear.

The nuisances of the game are in many cases to be expected given the platform nature of the title. Firstly the camera can become a little demented, particularly in corners or enclosed environments. It will try to sort itself out, but quite often will require some tampering via the controller. Lara’s animation can also misbehave and although an improvement, its still way behind what many other titles display. The ability to save anywhere does remove some of the frustration; at times the way forward is well hidden and will test the patience of some players. There has been talk of bugs in the title but Gamestyle did not experience any during our adventure.

Tomb Raider Underworld is an enjoyable romp. It pretty much delivers on all fronts, but more options or at least the ability to take photographs and upload these would be welcome. Crystal Dynamics has certainly stopped the rot for now and Underworld can be viewed as a success, but Gamestyle hopes more risks will be taken next time.

Rating: 7 / 10

Words by Jason Julier