Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition Review – Nintendo Switch 2

Wrapping up the reboot trilogy ports, Shadow of the Tomb Raider comes to Nintendo Switch 2 with a few exclusive features and a complete collection of download content in this Definitive Edition. Lara Croft was previously tested on a very wet Yamatai island in Tomb Raider, braced the cold expanse of Siberia in Rise of the Tomb Raider, but now gets to enjoy a little heat in the Peruvian jungle.

It may not be a huge surprise to learn that the third arc of Lara’s origins story doesn’t really set the world on fire… but setting the world on fire seems to be at the heart of this game regardless. Tracing her father’s steps and following the paramilitary organisation Trinity, Lara finds herself in Mexico on the hunt for an ancient Mayan dagger.

Eager to prevent Dominguez, the leader of Trinity, from getting to it first, Lara takes the dagger from its resting place in an underground cavern, unwittingly triggering an apocalyptic event. The first of several cataclysms is a tsunami that destroys the Mexican village, before many more disasters strike various parts of the world throughout the game.

There is the feeling that these destructive events could have served more of a purpose than dodgy set pieces, but the best approach with Shadow of the Tomb Raider is not to think too hard about its story. Interesting plots and characters haven’t been this trilogy’s strong suit, and that sadly continues here, with Lara herself being one of the weaker aspects.

Thankfully, there are areas that Shadow thrives, and it’s mainly in the form of the part of the series that everyone is keen for: tombs. No matter where Lara’s adventure takes her – whether it’s through deep jungles or brilliant underwater depths – going off the beaten path is an exercise in satisfaction, as long-forgotten and abandoned caverns with a clear history behind them are waiting to be discovered.

These treacherous ruins often present some of the most gratifying platforming and puzzle sections in the game, as immaculately designed levels require careful consideration and well-timed jumps, with plenty of secrets and weapon upgrades awaiting those that fully complete each one.

For the absolute best experience, it is highly recommended to turn up the difficulty settings to at least hard. The white paint that shows Lara where to climb will be removed, there won’t be any hints for solving puzzles, and the survival instincts ability won’t highlight key items and points of interest. It makes gameplay – especially in tombs – far more engaging, letting players experiment and use their eyes and brains to really make it feel like a trial’s reward is earned. These settings can be changed at any time, too, so no need to fear if a little help is required.

Underwater sections are an improvement on the previous title, and this also lends into the combat mechanics, where Lara can swim up on unsuspecting bad guys to yank them into the water. Stealth plays an important role as a whole, with Lara utilising camouflage and the ability to hide amongst vegetation, as well as using the treetops for a range of killing options.

There are many creative ways for players to tackle enemies, but there is the case that once a guaranteed method for taking them out has been found, it is unlikely too much emphasis will be placed on other mechanics. Once those poison arrows have been acquired, there’s no turning back. Lara’s camouflage is satisfying in its execution, but it never really sees its full potential realised since most encounters don’t provide major tests.

This being the Definitive Edition means not only are there neat gyro and mouse controls, but all the previous DLC challenge tombs are available and help to bolster the main quest. When they were released individually following the release of the original version of the game, it was difficult to justify them for what they offered. As inclusions to the core adventure in one complete package, however, it is easier to look at these trials more favourably, with rewards attained getting more use out of them as opposed to when they were achieved post story.