Aside from the new graphics and game play mechanics, there is a lot more to be found in the game. Each levels has a number of artifacts that can be found and will allow you to unlock extras in the game menu such as bios, artwork, cut scenes, music, costumes and the coolest feature of all, a commentary system. The commentary is by Jason Botta – the current creative director of the recent Tomb Raider games – and Toby Gard – the creative director for the original Tomb Raider – and allows you to play through the levels with crystals that appear every so often which triggers the voice over as they talk about the particular area that you are in, comparing the original game and the Anniversary edition. This feature alone is a reason to replay the levels a second time and is something that a lot more games should do.
Even though Tomb Raider: Anniversary has its ups and downs, it is most certainly worthy of anyone who had a chance to play the original or anyone who had wanted to. The visual upgrade and redesign breathes new life into the old game and even though it does have a few faults here and there, it is well worth the reduced price point and is a great way to travel back in time and see how the saga of Lara Croft all began.