When it comes to gaming subscription services like PS Plus or Xbox Game Pass or platforms that give away free games like the Epic Games Store, variety is the spice of life. If every game fell into a similar box on these platforms, then their current popularity would cease to exist. Every one of these excels when they give fans games that are nothing alike, and the Epic Games Store has ensured that its two main games for September 1 couldn't be any more different.
On September 1, Epic Games Store users can claim the Knockout City Armazillo DLC pack, as well as two games: Shadow of the Tomb Raider Definitive Edition and Submerged: Hidden Depths. The former tells the latest high-stakes story for Lara Croft and does so with every DLC for the game included, but whereas those seeking thrills would do best playing it, those looking for something to relax to should perhaps go with Submerged first.
Tomb Raider vs. Submerged: Survival vs. 'Relaxploration'
Genre-wise, there's not much distinction between an action-adventure game and a pure exploration game outside how one approaches the various mechanics. An exploration game could feature action sequences but not enough to hit the former category, for example. Yet, whereas Shadow of the Tomb Raider relies on action and survival, those don't even exist in the gameplay of Submerged. In the latter, fans take on the role of Miku searching half-sunken buildings, ruins, and more with a rowboat and so on to search for supplies to make her brother, Taku, better. There are no enemies, no combat, but a sense of 'relaxploration,' as coined by developer Uppercut Games.
In turn, there is no real relaxation in Shadow of the Tomb Raider's exploration. There are disturbing and difficult tombs, an environment filled with ways for Croft to attack enemies, camouflage herself, or strike fear into her enemies. There is plenty of action, enemies, and even deaths for Lara Croft. It's an interesting distinction made between the two games, and whereas some will appeal to all players, there's definitely something for anyone between these two.
Sometimes, it's best to play a game and relax; Submerged: Hidden Depths checks all the boxes required for that. Sometimes, it's best to play a game that keeps the blood pumping instead of something that is nice and mellow; Shadow of the Tomb Raider checks all of that. And Epic Games Store is the service providing players with the two boxes on September 1.
Epic Games Store users get a handful of free games.