Tomb Raider 2 Fmv Sticky

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

27-12-2024

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The original Tomb Raider II, released in 1997, holds a special, and sometimes frustrating, place in gaming history. While lauded for its improved gameplay and expanded environments, a persistent issue plagued many players: sticky Full Motion Videos (FMVs).

What were the FMVs?

For those unfamiliar, FMVs were short video clips used in games to enhance storytelling and create cinematic moments. In Tomb Raider II, these videos played during key story points, introducing characters, showing locations, and advancing the plot. They were a crucial element in conveying the game's narrative.

The "Sticky" Problem

The problem wasn't with the quality of the FMVs themselves – while dated by today's standards, they were considered impressive for their time. The issue stemmed from a technical glitch. In many versions of the game, the FMVs would become "sticky," meaning they would freeze or repeatedly loop, preventing players from progressing. This was often exacerbated by specific hardware or software configurations.

Why did this happen?

The precise cause remains a subject of speculation amongst veteran players. Several factors have been proposed:

• CD-ROM drive issues: The game's reliance on CD-ROM technology meant that drive performance directly affected FMV playback. Slow read speeds or drive malfunctions could easily trigger the sticky FMV problem.
• Compatibility problems: Variations in computer hardware and operating systems contributed to the instability. Certain graphics cards or sound cards might not have been perfectly compatible with the game's FMV playback engine.
• Corrupted game data: Damaged game files could also lead to FMV playback problems, including the dreaded sticky FMV bug.

Finding Solutions (Back then)

Players back in the day employed several workarounds to circumvent the problem, including:

• CD cleaning: A meticulously cleaned CD-ROM was often the first step in troubleshooting.
• Different CD-ROM drives: Some players found that using a different CD-ROM drive resolved the issue.
• Software patches: While infrequent, occasional software patches addressed some compatibility concerns.
• Game reinstallation: A fresh installation was often a last resort.

A Lasting Legacy

The sticky FMV issue in Tomb Raider II remains a memorable (and sometimes infuriating) aspect of its legacy. While modern technology and emulation largely eliminate the problem, the story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by gamers in the era of CD-ROMs and early 3D gaming. It highlights the importance of hardware compatibility and the potential for frustrating glitches to impact even some of gaming's most celebrated titles.