Reviews: Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness

DEVELOPER:Core
FORMAT: PlayStation 2/Xbox
GENRE: Action/Adventure

Forget the tombs, this time round Lara's going urban. Presumably following the archaeological inter-railing route, Angel of Darkness sees Lara adventuring around Paris and Prague. This is the first Tomb Raider game for the PlayStation 2 but it follows a well-trodden path. There are plenty of puzzles to be solved, levers pulled and gaps to jump. Thankfully the sadistic controls of the original games have been improved, with less precision needed when leaping around.

It's no revolution, but there are some useful innovations thrown in. Wrench open doors and Lara's strength will grow, allowing her access to different areas. The characterisation seems stronger too, with the ability to hold conversations that open up the plot.

The graphics have been spiced up too, although not as much as expected. The urban environments are dark and grimy, resembling Blade Runner rather than Indiana Jones. The character models are impressive though, even if more variety is needed in the backdrops.

Overall Angel of Darkness is a solid and enjoyable adventure. It won't win any originality awards, but will keep you chained to the PS2 for hours. Welcome back Lara!

Tiscali Games