Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered Interview – Visual Enhancements, QoL Upgrades, and More

In the spring of 2024, Aspyr and Crystal Dynamics plan to release a new collection, following their remastered version of the original Tomb Raider trilogy. This upcoming collection is dubbed as Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered. Similar to the previous remastered trilogy, this new one will include upgrades and enhancements. However, it’s not just an update; they aim to build upon these improvements based on audience feedback. Furthermore, the second trilogy of Tomb Raider titles is known for its darker and tonally different atmosphere. For more details about what Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered has in store, we spoke with Matthew Ray, Aspyr’s brand manager. You can find the full interview below.

Initially, we aimed to deliver the full classic Tomb Raider experience to fans, including all six original Core Design games. The fantastic reception to Tomb Raider I-III Remastered significantly strengthens our dedication to realizing this vision.

Was it originally intended to remaster Tomb Raider 4 through 6, or did the decision come about following the success of the Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered versions?

As a gamer myself, I’ve always dreamt about delivering the pure, authentic Tomb Raider experience, covering all six classic Core Design titles. The incredible reception to the remastered versions of Tomb Raider I-III really sealed the deal for us. It was a massive boost, showing just how much these games resonate with this dedicated fan base. This renewed energy pushes us to pour the same level of dedication and enthusiasm into Lara Croft’s most challenging escapades.

Could you tell me about some key comments or suggestions from the community regarding Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered, which have influenced our plans for enhancing Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered?

Feedback from the community on the remastered version of “Tomb Raider I-III” was extremely helpful. The Photo Mode stood out as a popular feature, prompting requests for more creative tools. To meet this demand, we added extra poses and costumes for Lara Croft in the updated collection. Many players also praised the graphic toggle option, leading us to reintroduce it as well. We always find ways to innovate based on community feedback, which is why we eagerly embrace it.

How did you go about improving and modernizing the graphics? Can you explain how the game manages to both evolve its aesthetics and stay faithful to its initial style?

At Aspyr, we prefer to emphasize “Enhancements instead of Alterations.” We value preserving the original creative vision, but leverage contemporary technology to heighten the overall experience. Each visual upgrade, be it improved textures, refined lighting, or updated character models, is crafted to intensify the immersive ambiance that Core Design intended. For instance, the Great Pyramid in The Last Revelation now boasts better textures and lighting, accentuating its mystery and grandeur while maintaining its iconic ominous tone.

Feedback from the community regarding the remastered version of Tomb Raider I-III proved extremely beneficial. A standout feature was the Photo Mode, which prompted players to request more creative tools. This constructive feedback led us to enhance the collection by adding extra poses and outfits for Lara Croft in the updated version.

Can you talk us through Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered’s most significant quality-of-life additions?

In our new version, we’ve added numerous improvements to the gameplay while preserving the essence of the originals in every way. New controls make the game friendlier for beginners, yet we’ve retained the classic tank controls for veteran players. We’ve also incorporated boss health bars (which can be turned off), offering strategic aid during challenging battles without diluting the excitement of the challenge. Lastly, we’re unveiling the exclusive “Times Exclusive” level from The Last Revelation to all players for the first time ever, allowing everyone an unprecedented opportunity to explore this unique segment in the history of Tomb Raider. There’s much more to look forward to; pre-order now and discover it all for yourself!

Could it be possible that the new poses from Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered’s Photo Mode might eventually be incorporated as an update for Tomb Raider 1-3?

Indeed, this is an intriguing query! Certainly, fans would be thrilled about such a prospect! At the moment, our primary goal is to offer the optimal experience for the remastered versions of Tomb Raider IV-VI. However, we’re constantly seeking ways to enhance and broaden our past releases.

As a developer, I’d be happy to share my perspectives on the potential PS5 Pro. In terms of game development, how might an upgraded GPU benefit your project when compared to the standard PS5?

This way, the question is rephrased in a more conversational and easy-to-read style while maintaining its original meaning.

The powerful GPU of the upgraded PS5 model presents enticing possibilities for developers. It empowers us to strive for even higher graphical accuracy, encompassing sharper textures and more vivid lighting and shadow effects. Moreover, this additional power guarantees a consistently smooth gameplay experience, even during visually demanding scenes, without sacrificing the quality or detail.

We’ve made significant improvements to the gameplay while preserving the integrity of the original games. Newcomers to the series can enjoy a smoother experience with modern controls, yet veterans will appreciate the retention of traditional tank controls.

What resolution and frame rates will the game target on the Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PS5 Pro?

The game on Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 will offer a breathtaking visual experience in 4K resolution running at 60 frames per second. Meanwhile, our goal on Xbox Series S is to present the action at a smooth 1440p and 60 FPS.

2025-01-08 17:42

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