Tomb Raider is a 3D action game with platforming and puzzle-solving elements, in which players control Lara Croft from a third-person perspective. The camera follows Lara Croft as she climbs, jumps, and swims through detailed environs overcoming environmental obstacles and deadly fauna. Moving through levels often involves finding spots where Lara Croft can climb, looking for spots where Lara Croft can use her acrobatic ability, and sliding blocks and pushing levers to solve puzzles and open passageways.
Tomb Raider features twin pistols with infinite ammunition, but players can also pick up higher caliber weapons to take on deadlier human opponents. Lara Croft is equipped with restorative health packs and a compass to orient herself. Her opponents include animals, gunmen, as well as primeval and supernatural beings. Careful explorers can find secret areas and avoid deadly traps.