OL wrote: The fact that it utilizes a legitimate stealth system this time is a pretty huge change. Same with the slightly more "open" environments that crop up here and there. And the grappling hook is ridiculously fun. Best swinging mechanics and physics I've ever played.
It's really a game made for big fans of the earlier games. There are easter eggs, sure, but more importantly the game provides a genuinely good wrap-up for its main characters, which is a rare thing to come across. I almost never see endings to long-standing series that truly feel satisfyingly over and done with, but this one absolutely nails it, and also adds new depth to the events that have come before.
Didn't the other games have a stealth system too? I remember sneaking around killing enemies before. They probably added that new "enemy sight" system and have a full on area dedicating to not being seen, but I didn't think it was that different. The grappling hook is definitely new but I also remember Tomb Raider implementing that kind of thing before.
I guess I'm too spoiled with the stuff Tomb Raider has already been doing. Though the story is quite good here.