The Tomb Raider series is renowned for its rich, intricate environmental puzzles that challenge players in various engaging ways. Below, I categorize and explain the different types of puzzles you can expect to encounter throughout the games, each contributing to the overarching theme of exploration and adventure:

1. Pipe and Generator Puzzles
These puzzles often involve interacting with various colored pipes that manage different systems such as biological, fuel, water, or radioactive materials. Players must work with generators and fuse boxes to manipulate these systems effectively. For example, in Cold Darkness Awakened, players must rotate pipes and manipulate cranks across different levels of a structure to progress through the game, demonstrating the integration of puzzle-solving with the environment.

2. Water Wheel and Water Flow Puzzles
Water-based puzzles typically require players to manage water levels and redirect flow using cranks. This can unlock new areas or remove obstacles blocking crucial pathways. A prime example can be found in the Cenote Water Wheel puzzle from Shadow of the Tomb Raider, where adjusting water flow is vital for swimming to access new regions or clearing debris.

3. Timed Traversal and Trap Navigation
In these puzzles, quick reflexes are essential as players navigate through perilous environments laden with traps and hazards. A classic instance is in Tomb Raider II’s 40 Fathoms level, where players face timed doors and burning obstacles. This type of puzzle emphasizes the need for both agility and timing, often requiring quick decision-making to ensure survival.

4. Manipulation of Ancient Mechanisms and Symbols
Many of the puzzles require players to engage with ancient mechanisms or decipher environmental clues aligned with thematic elements or symbols. In Rise of the Tomb Raider, the Nested Puzzles involve solving a series of interrelated challenges to unlock a larger mystery. Players must use their understanding of the narratives and historical context to make the correct adjustments, adding a layer of depth to the puzzle-solving experience.

5. Platforming Puzzles Involving Wind or Environmental Hazards
Certain puzzles challenge players to utilize natural elements, such as wind currents, to navigate complex platforming challenges. This requires precise timing and expert mastery of jumping mechanics, especially as players avoid hazards like wind tunnels or other environmental dangers. Successful navigation through these challenges demonstrates the combination of action and puzzle-solving inherent in the Tomb Raider formula.

6. Electric and Water-Based Circuit Puzzles
These puzzles involve engaging with electricity and water, often requiring players to reroute or fix connections to make areas safe for traversal. An example of this can be found in the 2013 Tomb Raider, where players must address environmental hazards meticulously to ensure safe passage over water.

Conclusion
The environmental puzzles in the Tomb Raider series are expertly designed to challenge players’ problem-solving abilities while maintaining fluid gameplay. They integrate seamlessly with the exploration and combat elements that define the series, requiring a blend of observation, timing, and resource management. Each puzzle type enriches the experience, encouraging players to engage with the game’s world thoughtfully and creatively. Overall, these puzzles are a testament to the series’ commitment to marrying narrative depth with interactive gameplay.