Tomb Raider (USA, Europe) (GBC)

Tomb Raider on Game Boy Color offers a unique 2D isometric action-adventure experience, distinct from its famous 3D console counterparts. Players step into the shoes of the legendary archaeologist Lara Croft, embarking on perilous adventures to explore ancient tombs, unravel mysteries, and uncover valuable artifacts.

The gameplay of Tomb Raider focuses on a blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. From an isometric perspective, players guide Lara through complex environments, including narrow corridors, expansive chambers, and trap-filled areas. Lara possesses a range of familiar movements such as running, jumping across chasms, climbing ledges, and even swimming underwater. Interacting with the environment is key to progression, for example, pushing blocks to create paths, activating hidden switches, or utilizing found items.

Puzzles in Tomb Raider often involve finding keys, using levers to open doors, or activating complex mechanisms in a specific sequence. Many puzzles require meticulous observation and sometimes precise timing to overcome obstacles or avoid deadly traps. Successfully solving puzzles not only opens new paths but often leads to finding treasures or secret areas.

The combat system in the game is straightforward yet effective. Lara is equipped with her iconic dual pistols and can pick up additional weapon types throughout the game. Players will face various types of enemies, from wild creatures like bats and wolves, to mummies and other artifact hunters. Dodging and accurately shooting enemies requires agility, especially when facing multiple adversaries simultaneously or in confined spaces.

Each level in Tomb Raider is intricately designed with numerous secrets and hidden areas to discover. The main objective is to find the way out of the current tomb or area, often by collecting a certain number of items or defeating a particular foe. With detailed 2D graphics and characteristic sound design, this game successfully recreated the adventurous atmosphere of the Tomb Raider series on a handheld platform, providing hours of entertainment for fans.