2. Progression
Yes, it's a bit trite that just about every game going now seems to have a level-based progression system complete with XP, but much like in Far Cry 3, it actually has more of a point in this game given the nature of the story. You're stranded on an island filled with burly bad guys, while you have only basic weaponry to begin with, and so it stands to reason that if Lara is going to survive these events, she's going to need to get tough(er) throughout the course of the game. As you progress through the game, you'll be able to level up various attributes of Lara's physical repertoire, and also kit yourself out with a more impressive and lethal array of weaponry. Crystal Dynamics have managed to do this in a manner consistent with the survivalist tone of the game; even if Lara takes to killing a too quickly for my liking after her traumatic first one, there is a sense of growth throughout the entirety of this adventure.