Getting into the classics...

[KongLooey84]

Hey everyone, I've been looking to start playing the original TR games since I've only played through Legend and Anniversary. However, I can't come to a concrete decision on how to go about doing this. After discovering the XP patches and audio/video fixes, I was planning on purchasing them for PC, and I wanted to have access to the extra levels in the gold editions. I later discovered both Unfinished Business and Golden Mask levels could be downloaded from tombraiderchronicles, so normal vs. gold edition purchases became irrelevant.

The next issue was control; directing Lara around in original game demos I've tried proved rather clunky after becoming accustomed to separate camera control via joystick or mouse in the newer installments. I'm also curious about the combat in the classics, particularly aiming or lock-on. I then thought about the possibility of getting a PSX-PC converter for console-like control while staying on the PC. I did not really come across any particularly promising converter and I don't know specifics about it, such as which generation of controller would work with it or is which required.

Another possible issue I have is that my PC is running XP 64-bit, which has caused some compatibility problems in the past. I did, however, successfully run the TRC demo from tombraiderchronicles, but I'm wondering if the 64-bit may cause problems with the additional software needed. I've been thinking it would just be a simple solution to get them for Playstation, since fixing them up on PC appears to be a bit of a runaround. I would prefer playing them with a controller, and, if possible, I'd like to experience the extra levels. I am unsure whether or not any extended play was released on the Playstation versions, though.

So, what do you all think? Are there any major bonuses PC has over Playstation, or vice versa? Would I be missing out on any particularly interesting or memorable experiences in the extra levels? I can see myself warming up to the PC controls in time, and apparently the visuals are a bit better. This isn't a major issue, though. I'm just really looking to get the entire classic TR experience, or simply as much of it as I can.

Well, I hope this was an appropriate place to post this question, although it does cover many issues; I figured it would be the best place to start. Anyway, any and all insight, opinions, and/or tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[Dia2blo]

i suppose the best option is to buy a pc controller which would be comfortable for you, although it might be a bit strange adjusting to the old controls, they are awkward, the only reason we deal with it is because we've always been used to it :p

as for the technical issues, regardless of your pc specs it should function well. although it has to be known that the pc versions are generally prettier (eg. in last revelation and chronicles there are nice dripping and steam effects that the playstation lacks)
One thing though, i noticed the sound on tr1 is often sketchy, due to it being old and all. this may not be an issue for you, but personally i have to play it silently, which frankly sucks.

as for missing out, yes the expansions are great, but obviously the main games are the focus points, and considering how short ub is, it doesnt leave you missing a lot. conversely, the lost artefacts and golden mask are definitely worth playing through!!

You can't really go wrong buying the games for pc, i mean they are pretty cheap now after all, and if there are any real problems, it wont break the bank to invest in the playstation versions!!

[MMAN]

On controls, what I posted in another thread:

If you want to try further and not just quit you first need to accept the fact that you aren't just going to be able to throw yourself into things at first; you NEED to take a little time to learn how the system comes together to allow you to move smoothly (namely, the grid system and how Lara's movements interact with it, along with compensating for the small delay when you jump). On the other hand, the original system offers certain advantages over the new one once you learn how it comes together, namely near-%100 consistency in your movements, although TR1 has a quirk in that regard that was fixed in the later games (the jumping delay is slightly random, while it is always the same in the later games).

And if you need some sort of "proof" of how the system can used smoothly when learned, here's one of my videos: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdeQOckRyd8&feature=PlayList&p=CE89C3D5233F28B8&index=0 (while this is a speedrun and above my normal play in smoothness, it's still pretty close to how I can do normally).

As long as you use texture smoothing on the PS version the difference isn't THAT big (framerate is another matter though), but if you have a PAL system then avoid console TR1 as it will run much slower than the PC version (thankfully they fixed it in the later games).

[godmodder]

I actually love the controls from the classics. I find it very clumsy to have to adjust the camera manually in the new games. The camera from the classics automatically gives a good vantage position most of the time and you can always look manually if it doesn't.

[KongLooey84]

So, after playing through some of the demos a few times over, I've grown rather fond of the keyboard controls. It was a surprisingly easy adjustment, and they seem to function pretty well. I think I'll invest in the first game for PC and see how the patching and fixing goes. The anticipation building around Underworld seems to be amplifying my interest in the classics, and I'm increasingly excited to play through them. Thanks for all the input!

[The Great Chi]

I always prefer the fighting tequniques of the earlier games TR1 to TR4, as there are certain moves that are better for specific baddies.

I will name some here (some are specific to certain games) but most likey I can't remember them all as they become automatic while in the midst of battle :D

Back hops while firing keeping those baddies with hand held weapons at bay.
Back flips while firing, same idea as above, but faster.
Side to side flips while firing, stops armed baddies getting direct hits at lara.
Jumping over and reverse flipping while shooting, gets the baddie in the back, lara is not a 'good sport' with this method, but it is effective :p
Running round in circles, (circling the baddie) while using uzi's, I love this one.
Hiding in a corner and taking pot shots, you can lock on, and the baddie just loses his energy eventually.

I'm just hoping TR Underworld goes 'back to basics' like the above methods where you have a free hand in fighting combat, rather than specialising in moves like Adrenaline dodge.

[aquaflute]

I always prefer the fighting tequniques of the earlier games TR1 to TR4, as there are certain moves that are better for specific baddies.

I will name some here (some are specific to certain games) but most likey I can't remember them all as they become automatic while in the midst of battle :D

Back hops while firing keeping those baddies with hand held weapons at bay.
Back flips while firing, same idea as above, but faster.
Side to side flips while firing, stops armed baddies getting direct hits at lara.
Jumping over and reverse flipping while shooting, gets the baddie in the back, lara is not a 'good sport' with this method, but it is effective :p
Running round in circles, (circling the baddie) while using uzi's, I love this one.
Hiding in a corner and taking pot shots, you can lock on, and the baddie just loses his energy eventually.

I'm just hoping TR Underworld goes 'back to basics' like the above methods where you have a free hand in fighting combat, rather than specialising in moves like Adrenaline dodge.


combat is one huge reason why I favor classic ones, besides all those you mentioned, the wide selection of weapons and being able to keep all the ammo you picked up throughout the game make it much much more interesting!

[KongLooey84]

I found the combat in the Crystal Dynamics games relatively entertaining with all the acrobatics and varying firearm options. I think the shotgun is the most visually amusing :D. Anyway, I've ordered the first two games for PC, and I'm ready to dive into these vintage adventures. Thanks for the classic combat-specific insight!