Tomb Raider Underworld: Beneath the Ashes

You’ll be left with mixed emotions after playing Beneath the Ashes. On the one hand you’ll have really enjoyed the experience, especially the fact that the new level isn’t a patchwork quilt of other environments from the main game; it’s a fresh new level with some pretty great puzzles. On the other hand, 2 or 3 hours will have passed and you’ll be questioning the price for such a short albeit entertaining experience.

In closing, Beneath the Ashes is a commendable slice of Tomb Raider adventuring, but still feels like it was part of the main game, that was either left on the cutting room floor, or withheld for the purpose of exclusive content.

Lara fans and platforming nuts will no doubt be sated, but memorable Tomb Raiding this ain't. [May 2009, p.75]

At 800 points (approx £7.00) this extra level is a bit costly, however if you look at it as going to the cinema, it has similar length and is more fun than most of the drivel that turns up at your local multiplex. Worth a try if you can't get enough of Lara.

The follow-up to the latest Lara game uses the same engine, offers some brand new environments and storyline. But, overall, it lacks depth, it's far too short and quite expensive for what it offers. Good ideas, not so well developed.

Tomb Raider Underworld: Beneath the Ashes is a new level that can only be recommended to more dedicated fans. Even if you put aside this short duration, the truth is that it brings nothing new to the experience. It offers challenges that the player already knows how to deal with, and once you finish it there is no reason to play again.

Not beefy enough to warrant the fat cash. [June 2009, p.96]