In New Game Plus, the player unlocks three new Paths that Lara Croft can master. Based on the player’s gaming style, the game can be played through again following either the Serpent Path, the Jaguar Path, or the Eagle Path. Should Lara choose to follow the Path of the Serpent, the gameplay features an emphasis on stealth and subterfuge. Lara can take down enemies by using sound and decoys to sow chaos among their ranks, and she can use mud and camoflague to hide from her enemies and strike from the shadows.
In contrast, the Path of the Jaguar features an emphasis on hunting and combat. Lara strikes down her foes with ferocity and power, and there is an emphasis on Lara’s agility and close-ranged prowess, such as knife takedowns. The Path of the Eagle, on the other hand, features an emphasis on traversal and resourcefulness. Lara can observe her enemies from afar, and traverse with ease, attacking enemies from long range. Furthermore, each chosen path in Shadow of the Tomb Raider will unlock a variety of exclusive rewards that further complement the path’s combat style and gameplay.
On top of new skills that become available, chosen Paths feature unique themed weapons and outfits, so it may well be worthwhile for hardcore Tomb Raider fans to master each path and gain all the collectibles that the Paths offer. New Game Plus mode seems like another way that developers are attempting to extend Shadow of the Tomb Raider’s playtime, as the actual story can be beaten in only 15 hours. Nevertheless, from what we have seen so far, this game promises to offer an exciting chapter in Lara Croft’s journey.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider launches for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on September 14.
