Tomb Raider III

Copyright: KBkids.com 1998

This sequel in the Tomb Raider series brings some graphical improvements, and a lot of gameplay for the money, but not a lot of changes. It will take your kids a long time to work their way through this entire game. On the other hand, it definitely isn't for everyone. Tomb Raider III earns its teen rating for animated violence, but is more famous for Lara Croft's skimpy wardrobe, and extremely well endowed figure. Yes, Tomb Raider sports a girl as the main character, but this one was definitely designed with teenage boys in mind.

An ancient civilization has been unearthed in Antarctica. The mystery involves Darwin's journey, meteorites and a lot of ancient artifacts. Lara first finds herself in an Indian jungle, fighting monkeys, tigers and more. The controls are a bit difficult to handle, and you often find Lara impaled on spikes, or worse, only having to restart the level. Once she has completed this level, your kids can select a path that takes Lara through South America, London, or Area 51 in Nevada. It doesn't matter which level is selected, but the game will make you work your way through each. Antarctica will be Lara's last stop.

While Lara is not running around constantly shooting other humans, she will battle piranhas, hyenas and even a T-Rex (returning from the other versions.) Lara can run fairly well in this version, and even has a few more transportation modes (kayak etc.) She will meet people along the way, some who will help her, and some not so nice characters. The graphics are nice, but a bit blocky looking.

This game will appeal to teenage boys who are not opposed to some animated violence. Girls who are diehard gamers will enjoy Lara as well, but she was not designed to "attract the female gaming audience." A good adventure game for families who have no objection to animated violence.

Bottom Line: A good edition to the Tomb Raider series. Definitely not for everyone, but a good adventure game for those not minding the violence.

Ratings: (based on KBkids.com's 4 star rating system)

Overall: 3

BrainGain: 1/2

FunFactor: 3

EasePlease: 2 1/2

Buy Tomb Raider 3 at Amazon!