Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, a remake of the first game, is getting RPG skill trees, crafting mechanics and a 'focus meter'

Amazon Game Studios and Crystal Dynamics have unveiled a new trailer for Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, the latest entry in the long-running series. This sixth installment marks a significant departure from the original 1996 game, with the developers at Flying Wild Hog introducing a host of new features to make the experience more dynamic and engaging.

One of the most notable additions is a focus meter, a mechanic that tracks Lara Croft's agility and resilience. As Lara deals damage, takes hits, or dodges attacks, the focus bar fills, allowing her to slow down time and perform acrobatic maneuvers that feel more responsive and fluid than in previous games. This differs greatly from the original title, where Lara could execute fluid movements without the need for a dedicated focus meter.

In addition to the focus mechanic, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis introduces a skill tree reminiscent of RPGs, allowing players to enhance Lara's abilities as they progress through the game. Rather than relying on experience points earned through gameplay, the skill tree is populated with artefacts scattered throughout the levels, encouraging players to explore and uncover hidden rewards.

The developers have also retained the iconic dual pistols as Lara's baseline weapon, complemented by a variety of other firearms, including shotguns, assault rifles, and SMGs. Each weapon is designed to cater to different playstyles and enemy distances, providing players with a diverse arsenal to tackle the game's challenges.

While these new features aim to breathe new life into the classic Tomb Raider formula, the changes have not been met without criticism. Some fans have expressed disappointment at the introduction of RPG elements and the reduced focus on exploration, wondering why Lara, as a seasoned treasure hunter, would need to learn new skills at her age. The shift towards newer mechanics has also faced backlash, with some users voicing their displeasure on social media platforms.

Despite the mixed reactions, Flying Wild Hog has confirmed that the upcoming release, set for February 12th, 2027, will bring these new additions to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and PC via Steam. The developers hope that these enhancements will provide players with a fresh and exciting Tomb Raider experience.