Misplaced chivalry? Underlying sexism? Commitment to the nature? Violence within a more grounded setting? Regardless of the reason, i feel that the majority would agree that the somewhat brutal death animations within the recently released Tomb Raider reboot are more affecting than your average videogame death. From massive head trauma to spikes in the course of the neck, watching Lara struggle frantically in her often disturbingly unpleasant final moments is not any easy watch.

As a seasoned gamer, I’ve become somewhat numb to videogame violence through the years. Sure, Leon being decapitated for the 1st time in Resident Evil 4 was as vicious because it was unexpected and that whole eyeball drill thing is Dead Space 2 wasn’t exactly agreeable, but while they certainly delivered a feeling of initial shock, it was always offset by mild amusement and an ‘oh my God!” followed by a silly grin and a mild chuckle.

Not in Tomb Raider though. You may get the “oh my God!” out of me, but that certainly won’t be followed by a wry smile or a sneaky giggle. Death in Tomb Raider is just not fun. Not within the slightest……..that isn’t necessarily a nasty thing though.

It could certainly be argued that the death animations are a touch excessive , but in defence of the event team, here, it actually feels justified. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure if it was simply down to Lara being female, but honestly, i suspect it’s more to do with me actually caring in regards to the character. Yes, Lara being female still plays an element (I’m simply not acquainted with seeing such a believable female character subjected to such outright brutality), however the fact remains; thanks to these opening hours, due to her being a completely developed character (no pun intended); seeingLara die hurts. It hurts plenty. I care what happens to Lara and seeing her suffer as a result of my incompetence isn’t really a nice experience.

It’s a tricky strategy to teach gamers easy methods to watch out, but by God, does it ever work. Fall into the rapids……won’t do this again. Caught off-guard…….won’t do this again. Wholly unpleasant, yes, however the threat of death is nonetheless given the type of gravitas usually reserved for the likes of Demon’s/Dark Souls. Yes, it is a very different approach, but believe me, losing my progress and loot was bad; seeing Lara die another grizzly death could be even worse.

Lara must live.