The animal hunting mechanic in the Tomb Raider series, particularly in the 2013 reboot and its sequels, is designed as an engaging side activity that intertwines seamlessly with the overall gameplay experience. Players are encouraged to explore the diverse game world to locate and hunt various wildlife, such as deer, boars, and pigeons, which contribute to resource gathering and crafting. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the hunting challenges and their associated rewards:

Key Features of Animal Hunting Challenges

1. Resource Gathering:
– Hunting animals yields valuable resources, including hide, feathers, and meat. These materials are essential for crafting upgrades and enhancing Lara’s weapons and gear, making resource collection a strategic aspect of gameplay.

2. Experience Points:
– Successfully hunting animals contributes to Lara’s overall experience points, helping players to level up her skills. Developing her skills is critical for overcoming challenges and progressing further in the game.

3. Animal Instincts Skill:
– The Animal Instincts skill, once unlocked, significantly aids players in hunting. This skill highlights animals and harvestable plants on the map, allowing players to efficiently locate targets and gather essential materials.

Specific Quests and Challenges

– A Hearty Meal Mission:
– In Rise of the Tomb Raider, players encounter specific quests that require hunting, such as the “A Hearty Meal” mission. Completing such quests not only provides immediate rewards but also unlocks unique outfits (e.g., the Huntress outfit) that enhance gameplay, specifically aiding in hunting activities.

– Access to Hunting Areas:
– Certain outfits and specific regions within the game world increase the availability of animals. For example, wearing the Huntress outfit can lead players to areas with infinite spawning pigeons, facilitating the completion of hunting-related achievements and challenges.

Gameplay Context

– Optional Activity:
– While hunting is a compelling side activity, it is entirely optional and is not tied to survival mechanics like hunger or starvation. Instead, it serves as a means of gathering materials and experience points while enriching the exploration aspect of the game.

– Expanded Focus in Specific Modes:
– Hunting takes on greater significance in certain expansions or game modes, such as Survival Mode or the Endurance DLC. In these scenarios, players must prioritize hunting to gather food and crucial resources that support their survival and crafting needs.

Achievements and Trophies

– Players can earn trophies or achievements by specifically targeting and hunting a certain number or types of animals. This incentivizes participation in hunting not just for functional benefits, but also for completionist players who enjoy unlocking all in-game accolades.

Tips for Effective Hunting

– Leverage the Animal Instincts skill to easily spot potential targets.
– Pay attention to the clothing Lara is wearing, as specific outfits may open up new hunting opportunities in certain regions.
– Engage in hunting not only as a means to gather resources but also as a way to explore and enjoy the detailed environments crafted within the game.

Conclusion

In summary, animal hunting in Tomb Raider functions primarily as a side activity that enhances resource gathering, skill development, and quest progression. It contributes to the overall depth of the gameplay experience without imposing unnecessary survival pressures, allowing players to enjoy the rich and immersive world while engaging in a fulfilling and rewarding aspect of gameplay.