Very nostalgic of the original, but the graphics engine was tweaked to allow better textures and graphic definition. I must admit that the animals in Tomb Raider II are definitely improved and far more realistic. Overall graphically, there seems to be an increased attention to detail. One thing that I feel will be sadly missed is the FMV treat we were all given in between each level. The creators seem to believe that players would prefer the game to “continue,” but this actually distracted me. I’d rather sit back and watch the mini-movie.

Again, Tomb Raider II is very similar to the original, but if it ain’t broke... Of course, Lara has been given some new weapons, which are always nice. I found the harpoon very difficult to aim (but I’m an Uzi girl anyway). Hint: try the harpoon on the dragon. Also, Lara is now able to climb walls, etc. This does come in handy in a number of situations. The sunken cruise ship provided some interesting twists to the game. I thought it was a novel way to cash in on the “Titanic” craze. My major complaint was the number of really stupid human enemies. I found the animals in the first game to be more of a challenge, because at least they didn’t make that weird mechanical squeaking noise. And what was that ridiculous grunting anyway? These guys deserve to be mowed down with an Uzi! Also, I prefer more mystical enemies like the Natla “zombies” in all their forms. They are more unpredictable and more interesting than a bunch of Mafia hoods. But the monk fight is a treat (just stand back and let ‘em go). Again, at times the game is maddening, but the levels are huge and beautiful and provide hours of entertainment.

Not very high for any Tomb Raider fan -- I finished this game quicker than the first, but it did have more frustrating moments. Basically, it’s a new and improved version of the original.

I must complain about the fact that they changed Lara’s voice. How could they do such a thing! The fools! But one thing that I liked in Tomb Raider II was the fact that there were three “secret” dragon statues to obtain in each level. You knew if you got them without the annoying guesswork of the original. Also, if you used the “Oops” feature in the first game as extensively as I did, you’ll notice that it isn’t as easily accomplished in TR2. Again, if you liked the first game, you’ll like this one.

Tomb Raider II is GREATLY improved with the Reality Quest Glove. If you have ever tried to line up a jump perfectly, you can understand the frustration. With the Glove on Simulated Analog, Lara moves in the tiniest increments, so it’s much easier.