Crystal Dynamics have shared further details on Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition, slated for release on the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, in a Q&A with fans on their forums. The studio’s executive producer, Scot Amos, fielded a number of questions pertaining to the game’s visuals, framerate and content on the PS4 and Xbox One, and also touched upon differences between the Definitive Edition and the PC version of Tomb Raider.
Development of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition began in January 2012, after work on the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of the game had been concluded. Speaking specifically to the differences between the Definitive Edition and the PC version, Amos stated that the next-gen versions of the game use upgraded character models for Lara and all of the major story NPCs in the game, in addition to the TressFX and higher-resolution textures that were already available on PC.
Additionally, special materials have been added to Lara that change dynamically when she travels through rain or water, wades through mud, or gets blood on herself. An upgraded physics system on the character now affects the items she carries on herself, too, reacting accordingly when she runs, jumps and stumbles. Finally, The next-gen versions of the game also feature a new particle system, new lighting work, enhanced shadows, and other improved graphical details, such as debris, details on walls, more environmental vegetation and so on. These feature updated physics as well, such as wind affecting trees and leaves.
Amos also revealed that the game will run at 1080p on both platforms, but would not commit to a framerate of 60fps, adding that Crystal Dynamics are still optimizing the game and won’t be able to confirm final framerate until January.
In terms of new features, Amos stated that Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition will allow you to use voice commands for certain tasks on both Xbox One and PlayStation 4. Voice commands are used as shortcuts into various menus and for things like switching weapons, switching ammo types, and other such features.
When asked if one could expect to see Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition on other platforms—specifically PC—Amos stated that, at the moment, Square Enix are only willing to discuss the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions of the game. That said, if other platforms are demanded by fans, Crystal Dynamics are open to exploring opportunities.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition will be available in January 28th, 2014 for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The game will include all post-launch DLC and other bonus items, including:
- “Tomb of the Lost Adventurer” tomb
- 8 DLC Multiplayer maps
- 6 Multiplayer weapons
- 4 Multiplayer characters
- 6 Alternate outfits for Lara
- Tomb Raider: The Beginning digital comic
- Tomb Raider: The Art of Survival artbook
- The Final Hours of Tomb Raider documentary
We’ll have more news on Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition as it is shared.
