Tomb Raider II (1997) (2012)

The second installment in the Tomb Raider series, this reimagining invites you to join Lara Croft as she travels across the globe on a perilous quest. Her mission: to retrieve the legendary Dagger of Xian before it can be seized by nefarious forces who would wield its immense power. This ancient artifact is whispered to grant its possessor the terrifying might of a fire-breathing dragon, a power too dangerous to fall into the wrong hands. Prepare for a global adventure filled with ancient ruins, treacherous traps, and a race against time. While this particular release marks a later re-release, its inclusion speaks to the enduring legacy of the original *Tomb Raider II* and its foundational impact on Lara Croft's adventures. The original game, developed by Core Design, set a high bar for action-adventure gameplay and narrative, qualities that Crystal Dynamics would later build upon with their own iconic entries. This 2012 iteration serves as a testament to the strength of the *Tomb Raider II* design, showcasing the intricate level design, challenging puzzles, and thrilling combat that made Lara a household name, and hints at the high standards Crystal Dynamics would strive to meet and exceed in their own contributions to the franchise.