Shadow of the Tomb Raider

The main pros of the game

• Graphics and Visuals: Many users praised the stunning graphics, with detailed environments and beautiful lighting that enhance immersion.
• Exploration and Tomb Design: The game features some of the best tombs in the series, with complex puzzles that reward exploration and clever thinking. Players appreciated the emphasis on exploration and platforming.
• Gameplay Mechanics: The gameplay was often described as smooth and enjoyable, with improvements in traversal mechanics and a strong focus on stealth.
• Atmosphere: The jungle setting and overall ambiance were highlighted as immersive and engaging, contributing to the game's adventurous feel.
• Replayability: Several users noted the game's replay value, with many willing to play through it multiple times.

The main cons of the game

• Story and Writing: A significant number of reviews criticized the story for being weak, disjointed, or formulaic. Many felt that Lara's character development was lacking and that the narrative didn't deliver the emotional impact expected from a finale.
• Pacing Issues: Users mentioned that the pacing could feel uneven, with slow sections that detracted from the overall experience. The middle of the game, in particular, was often described as dragging.
• Combat Mechanics: Some players expressed disappointment with the combat, noting that it felt less satisfying and impactful compared to previous entries. The game was criticized for having infrequent combat encounters, which led to a lack of tension.
• Bugs and Technical Issues: Several reviews pointed out persistent bugs and glitches that affected gameplay, including issues with character movement, audio problems, and game-breaking bugs that required workarounds.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Character Development: Many players felt that Lara Croft's character arc did not evolve meaningfully, and her portrayal was often seen as inconsistent with her development in earlier games.
• Engaging Side Quests: While some side quests were appreciated, others were deemed tedious or poorly integrated into the main narrative, leading to a feeling of filler content.
• Combat Variety: Users expressed a desire for more diverse combat scenarios and enemy types, as well as a more balanced integration of combat with exploration and puzzle-solving.
• Quality of Life Improvements: Some players mentioned missing features like a manual flashlight or options to toggle walking, which could have enhanced the gameplay experience.

Summary

• Overall, while "Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition" received praise for its visuals, exploration, and tomb design, it faced criticism for its story, pacing, and technical issues, leading to mixed reviews from players.

Summary generated on: February 2, 2026