I’m slowly counting down the days until I can get my hands on Rise of the Tomb Raider’s 20th Anniversary Edition. Seeing as I’ve not yet played the sequel to the amazing 2013 reboot, picking up the premium package on October 11th really is a no brainer. It’ll come with the base game (naturally), as well as a plethora of DLC.
Hell, those who digitally pre-order the 20th Anniversary Edition for the PlayStation 4 will even get a free copy of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition thrown in for free. Admittedly, that little incentive really has me wondering if I should get the game on Sony’s console instead of PC, but then I imagine Geoff’s disapproving face (along with all of your digital avatars) and that thought evaporates immediately!
Anyhow, one part of the package I’m really looking forward to is all the included DLC. The unreleased content in particular, Blood Ties, seems rather interesting. Here’s its premise in case you’ve forgotten…
Blood Ties, a new premium DLC, beckons players to explore Croft Manor in a new story mode; then defend it against a zombie invasion in Lara’s Nightmare. When Lara’s uncle contests ownership of the Manor, Lara must explore the estate to find proof that she is the rightful heir, or lose her birthright and father’s secrets for good. Players can then test their zombie-killing skills in the replayable Lara’s Nightmare mode: a haunted Croft Manor where players have new challenges and must rid the Manor of an evil presence.
When I saw that I’d get to explore the famous Croft mansion, I got super excited. But then I saw the inclusion of the undead, and I lost some interest in Blood Ties immediately.
That was before I watched the DLC’s new trailer however. Check it out (via VG247):
Not everybody seems to share my enthusiasm on the horde mode. Based on the comments on the trailer, people are livid that Crystal Dynamics are taking Lara down the Michael Bay all out action route.
I don’t get it to be honest. The first part of the DLC will let players explore Croft Manor in detail (ie: traditional Tomb Raider gameplay), while the second part is all about gunplay (ie: something more modern). It’s a good balance, is it not – something for fans both old and new? Or should Lara only focus on solving puzzles, while having minor action spaced throughout, just like the good old days?
All I hope really, is that Blood Ties features a butler and a freezer. Everything else will be for nought if that little easter egg isn’t thrown in!
Last Updated: August 23, 2016
Alien Emperor Trevor
August 23, 2016 at 14:06
Meh, zero interest in this DLC. I recently finish the main game on PC, it’s pretty damn good.
Krabby Paddy
August 23, 2016 at 14:11
Enjoyed playing the main game but haven’t been at all interested in any of the DLC. This one included. Also I tend to struggle getting back into games where I’ve finished the main story.
NinjaNinja
August 23, 2016 at 14:16
But will we be able to do this:
hairyknees
August 23, 2016 at 15:05
I sure hope so 😛
Admiral Chief
August 23, 2016 at 14:19
Ummm, wasn’t this a thing in TR2?
Admiral Chief
August 23, 2016 at 14:19
(minus the zombies)
Matthew Holliday
August 23, 2016 at 18:54
And TR1 as well I think, that obstacle course and looking for the secrets of the manor were my favorite things to do in those games.
Although with all the handholding in these latest games, the obstacle course wouldnt exactly be a challenge.
But so pretty
Fox1 - Retro
August 23, 2016 at 15:59
One of the finest game’s I’ve played this generation. Can’t wait for the uber 20th Anniversary Edition!