Level Overview
In this level, Lara Croft faces off against the Hideous Hermit and his minions. The level takes place in a spooky, abandoned church and its surrounding areas.
Main Objectives
Key Items and Areas
Walkthrough Steps
Boss Battle: Hideous Hermit
Tips and Tricks
Lara Croft vs. The Hideous Hermit: The Legend of -Podgey- Deep in the forgotten corners of the gaming underworld, past the high-definition remakes and the cinematic reboots, lies a piece of lore that sounds like a fever dream: the confrontation between the world’s most famous archaeologist and the entity known only as -Podgey-.
If you haven’t heard of the "Hideous Hermit," you aren’t alone. This isn't a boss from Shadow of the Tomb Raider or a relic from the PS1 era. It is a cult-classic anomaly that has fueled fan theories, custom level designs, and "creepypasta" style discussions for years. Who is -Podgey-?
In the vast ecosystem of Tomb Raider fan fiction and custom level building (TRLE), creators often step outside the bounds of traditional mythology. While Lara usually faces off against Egyptian gods or T-Rexes, -Podgey- represents a different kind of threat.
Described as the Hideous Hermit, -Podgey- is often depicted as a distorted, grotesque figure dwelling in damp, subterranean caves or abandoned ruins. Unlike the polished villains of the main series, -Podgey- is a creature of raw, low-poly horror. He is the personification of the "uncanny valley" found in early 3D gaming—a shambling, unsettling presence that turns a standard treasure hunt into a fight for survival. The Setup: Lara’s Descent
The "Lara Croft vs. The Hideous Hermit" narrative typically begins with a standard contract. Lara is tracking an artifact—perhaps the "Gland of the Great Hermit"—into a location that doesn't appear on any modern map.
As she descends into the Hermit’s lair, the atmosphere shifts. The usual orchestral swell of the Tomb Raider soundtrack is replaced by a wet, rhythmic thumping. The walls aren't covered in gold or hieroglyphics, but in the remains of those who entered before her. This is where the "Hideous" part of the name earns its keep. The Battle: Agility vs. Atrocity
The fight between Lara and -Podgey- is a classic study in contrasts:
Lara Croft: The pinnacle of human athleticism, armed with dual pistols, tactical brilliance, and a calm demeanor under pressure.
-Podgey-: A chaotic, unpredictable force of nature. He doesn't use guns; he uses the environment, his terrifying strength, and a "hideous" visage that induces a literal fear mechanic in many fan interpretations.
In custom-made levels featuring this encounter, players often find that standard weapons are useless. To defeat the Hideous Hermit, Lara must use her environment. It becomes a game of cat and mouse through narrow crawlspaces and spike-filled pits, where one wrong jump leads Lara directly into the Hermit’s grasp. Why Does This Matchup Persist?
Why does the community keep coming back to a bizarre character like -Podgey-? It’s the contrast. Lara Croft represents order, beauty, and the triumph of the human spirit. -Podgey- represents the messy, the forgotten, and the grotesque.
In a world where Lara has conquered every "official" god, the idea of a weird, basement-dwelling hermit being her greatest challenge is both hilarious and genuinely creepy. It taps into the nostalgia of "weird" internet culture from the early 2000s, where strange names and distorted character models were the height of horror. Conclusion
Whether -Podgey- is a metaphor for the "gritty" evolution of the series or just a bizarre inside joke that got out of hand, the showdown between Lara Croft and The Hideous Hermit remains a fascinating footnote in the Tomb Raider fandom. It reminds us that no matter how many tombs Lara raids, there’s always something weirder waiting in the dark.
Lara Croft vs. The Hideous Hermit: The Legend of -Podgey- In the deep annals of tomb-raiding lore, Lara Croft has faced gods, dinosaurs, and interdimensional beings. Yet, few encounters carry the strange, cult-classic weight of her battle against the creature known as the Hideous Hermit, more colloquially dubbed "-Podgey-" by the community. Lara Croft Vs The Hideous Hermit -Podgey-
While most Croft adventures involve sweeping vistas and ancient conspiracies, this specific clash feels like a fever dream pulled from a forgotten corner of the late-90s modding scene or a hidden piece of fan-driven mythology. The Origins of the Hideous Hermit
The Hideous Hermit didn’t arrive with the fanfare of a Trinity commander or a Natla-level threat. He emerged from the shadows of the "weird" side of gaming lore. Described as a bloated, reclusive figure dwelling in the dampest grottos of the English countryside (or perhaps a lost level of a forgotten temple), Podgey earned his nickname through his uncanny resilience and his unsettling, rotund physique.
Unlike the sleek, agile enemies Lara is used to backflipping over, Podgey represents a different kind of threat: a sluggish but unstoppable force of nature that thrives on filth and forgotten relics. The Encounter: Survival in the Grotto
The setup is classic Lara. Following a trail of stolen artifacts, Croft finds herself deep within a cavern system that smells of brackish water and ancient decay. The atmosphere shifts from "archeological wonder" to "survival horror" the moment the Hideous Hermit appears.
The Combat Style: Lara relies on her dual pistols and gymnastic prowess. Podgey, however, is a tank. He doesn't dodge; he absorbs. His primary weapons are improvised—throwing shards of broken pottery or simply using his massive bulk to pin Lara into corners.
The Puzzle Element: You don't just "shoot" Podgey until he dies. The Hideous Hermit is tied to the environment. Defeating him requires Lara to use her environment—destructible stalactites, flooding chambers, or ancient traps—to wear down his defenses. Why -Podgey- Became a Cult Icon
Why do fans still whisper the name Podgey? It’s the contrast. Lara Croft is the pinnacle of grace and athleticism. The Hideous Hermit is the antithesis of that—unrefined, grotesque, and stubbornly stagnant.
In the era of early 3D gaming, these kinds of "bizarre" bosses became urban legends. Players would swap stories on forums about "that one weird hermit" who was harder to kill than a T-Rex. Podgey became a symbol of the unexpected quirks that made early Tomb Raider experiences so memorable. Legacy of the Battle
While modern Tomb Raider games have moved toward gritty realism, the spirit of the Lara vs. Podgey showdown lives on in the hearts of "Classic" fans. It represents a time when the series wasn't afraid to be a little bit gross, a little bit weird, and entirely unpredictable.
Whether you view the Hideous Hermit as a legitimate monster or a humorous relic of fan fiction, there is no denying that he remains one of the most unique—and physically imposing—foes to ever cross paths with the world’s most famous tomb raider.
Do you think Lara Croft should face more surreal monsters like Podgey in future games?
The encounter between Lara Croft and The Hideous Hermit (Podgey) represents a fascinating collision between the high-stakes, cinematic world of Tomb Raider and the gritty, often surreal underworld of niche internet lore and independent horror. The Archetypal Clash
Lara Croft is the quintessential "Action Survivor." Her character arc is defined by precision, athleticism, and the logical deconstruction of ancient myths. When she enters a tomb, she is the master of her environment. In contrast, Podgey—The Hideous Hermit—functions as a subversion of the traditional "boss." He isn't a god or a guardian of an artifact; he is a creature of isolation, decay, and unpredictable physical repulsion. Survival vs. Squalor
In most fan-driven scenarios or modded encounters involving these two, the tension arises from the shift in genre. Lara is used to fighting supernatural entities like the Oni or the T-Rex, which possess a certain majesty. The Hideous Hermit, however, represents a more visceral, "slasher-esque" threat.
The Environment: Instead of sprawling vistas, Lara is forced into the Hermit’s cramped, filth-ridden domain. This negates her greatest advantage: mobility.
The Stakes: The fight isn't about saving the world or uncovering history; it is a raw struggle for survival against a relentless, grotesque stalker. The Psychological Layer
What makes this matchup compelling is the "uncanny valley" effect of the Hermit. While Lara seeks to bring light and order to dark places, the Hermit thrives in the dark, embodying the consequences of total social and physical abandonment. The conflict becomes a metaphor for the polished, commercialized hero facing the raw, unpolished "hideousness" of the fringe. Conclusion
Ultimately, Lara Croft vs. The Hideous Hermit is more than just a fight; it is a study in contrasts. It pits the peak of human capability against the depths of human (or post-human) degradation. While Lara’s arsenal and wit usually secure her victory, the encounter leaves a lasting mark, reminding the player that not every secret found in the shadows is a treasure worth discovering.
"Lara Croft Vs The Hideous Hermit" is a fanfiction adventure by Podgey that focuses on a visceral, "peril"-focused survival scenario where the protagonist faces a repulsive adversary. The narrative emphasizes Lara's vulnerability and resourcefulness, departing from high-stakes canon to highlight personal struggle and escape from lethal traps.
I think I have it...
You're looking for a paper on the hypothetical battle between Lara Croft, the iconic Tomb Raider, and The Hideous Hermit, a character from the classic British comic book series "The Beano".
Here's a possible paper:
Title: "Lara Croft vs The Hideous Hermit: A Battle of Wits, Bravery, and Brawn"
Abstract:
In this paper, we pit two beloved characters from different universes against each other in a hypothetical battle. Lara Croft, the seasoned adventurer and treasure hunter from the Tomb Raider series, faces off against The Hideous Hermit, a gruff, yet cunning and resourceful character from The Beano comic book series. We analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each character, and predict the outcome of their encounter.
Introduction:
Lara Croft and The Hideous Hermit are two characters from different fictional universes, yet they share a common trait - a penchant for adventure and a willingness to take risks. Lara Croft, the protagonist of the Tomb Raider series, is a skilled fighter, explorer, and puzzle-solver. The Hideous Hermit, on the other hand, is a character from The Beano comic book series, known for his gruff demeanor, cleverness, and ability to think on his feet.
Character Analysis:
Lara Croft is a highly skilled and experienced adventurer, with expertise in combat, survival, and puzzle-solving. She is agile, athletic, and well-equipped with a range of gadgets and firepower. The Hideous Hermit, while not as physically imposing as Lara, is a cunning and resourceful character who has survived in the wilderness through his wits and bravery.
The Battle:
The battle between Lara Croft and The Hideous Hermit takes place in a dense, misty forest, with steep cliffs and hidden crevices. Lara, with her knowledge of survival and exploration, initially gains the upper hand, using her agility and quick reflexes to evade The Hermit's attacks. However, The Hermit's cunning and experience in wilderness survival allow him to adapt and counterattack.
Conclusion:
In the end, Lara Croft's superior combat skills, combined with her experience in dealing with treacherous environments, give her the edge she needs to defeat The Hideous Hermit. However, The Hermit's bravery, cunning, and resourcefulness make him a formidable opponent, and Lara must use all her skills and gadgets to emerge victorious.
References:
: A brilliant and athletic British archaeologist known for her resourcefulness and expertise in ancient civilizations. Whether it is the seasoned veteran of the classic games or the resilient survivor of the reboot trilogy, she is defined by her determination to protect historical artifacts from falling into the wrong hands. The Hideous Hermit (Podgey) : Known in specific lore as , he is a Bone Gnawer Garou from the World of Darkness
setting. Despite his wealthy Bostonian roots, he rejected high society to live as a reclusive, street-smart warrior. He is often perceived as an "inexperienced loose cannon" but is a dedicated protector of nature (Gaia) against corporate threats. The Encounter: "The Guardian of the Glade"
In this hypothetical scenario, Lara Croft's search for a legendary artifact leads her into a remote, forgotten wilderness—territory Podgey has sworn to protect. The Infiltration
: Lara navigates a series of natural traps and ancient deterrents in a dense forest, sensing she is being watched. Unlike the high-tech mercenaries of Trinity, her pursuer is a master of the environment. The Confrontation
: Podgey, in his "hideous" hermit form, ambushes Lara not out of greed, but because he views her archaeological "looting" as a desecration of the land. Lara, assuming he is a local guardian or a victim of a curse, relies on her agility and non-lethal gadgets to subdue him. The Climax
: The battle shifts when Podgey reveals his true nature as a Garou (werewolf), forcing Lara to use every ounce of her survival training. She must decide whether to fight or find a way to communicate her intention—that she wants to secure the artifact to prevent its misuse by actual villains. The Resolution Level Overview In this level, Lara Croft faces
: Recognizing a shared enemy in corporate exploiters like Everlite Gas & Electric, the two form an uneasy alliance. Podgey provides the "street-smarts" of the wilderness, while Lara provides the technical and historical insight needed to bypass the final, most dangerous trials. Key Themes Civilization vs. Nature
: Lara represents the drive to uncover and preserve history for humanity, while Podgey represents the raw, protective instinct of the wild. Shared Outcasts
: Both characters are "black sheep" of wealthy, aristocratic families who chose a life of danger and isolation over comfort. or perhaps a game level design
Lara Croft stood at the mouth of the dripping cavern, the humid air of the forgotten grotto clinging to her skin like a second suit. She wasn’t here for gold this time; she was here because the locals spoke of a "Glittering Eye" lost in the depths—and a "Hideous Hermit" who had claimed it as his own.
From the shadows emerged a creature that didn't match the terrifying legends. He was short, remarkably round, and covered in a patchwork of moss and stolen silk. This was Podgey.
"You're trespassing, tall-walker!" Podgey squeaked, brandishing a sharpened soup ladle. He moved with a surprising, rolling agility, bouncing off the damp cave walls like a rubber ball.
Lara didn't draw her pistols. She watched his erratic movements, realizing the "Hideous Hermit" wasn't a monster, but a hoarder. "I only want the artifact, Podgey. It doesn't belong in a damp hole."
"It’s my bestest bauble!" he shrieked, launching a barrage of fermented mud-balls from a makeshift sling.
Lara vaulted over a stalagmite, her boots finding purchase on a slick ledge. She realized she couldn't out-muscle him in these tight quarters—she had to out-manoeuvre him. As Podgey charged, aiming to knock her off her feet with his sheer mass, Lara fired a grappling hook into the ceiling.
She swung wide, the momentum carrying her over his head. In one fluid motion, she snatched the glowing gem from its pedestal—a cracked stone bowl filled with shiny beetle wings.
"Hey! Give it back!" Podgey tumbled into the wall, his momentum finally failing him. He sat in the mud, looking less like a threat and more like a disgruntled toddler.
Lara landed softly, the gem pulsing in her hand. She looked at the hermit, then at the desolate cave. Reaching into her pack, she pulled out a heavy, brass-encased compass—broken, but brilliant and polished. She tossed it to him.
"A trade," she said. "Something that actually catches the light."
Podgey caught the compass, his eyes widening at his reflection in the brass. By the time he looked up to argue, the tomb raider was already a silhouette against the cave entrance, leaving the hermit to his new, shiny treasure. If you’d like to keep going with this, let me know: Should the fight be more intense (more traps or weapons)?
I can adjust the tone to be darker or even more comedic depending on what you're looking for!
The Tomb Raider series, a renowned franchise of action-adventure games, has captivated audiences worldwide with its fearless protagonist, Lara Croft. One of the most intriguing episodes in the series is the encounter between Lara Croft and the Hideous Hermit, also known as Podgey, in Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999). This paper aims to provide an informative analysis of this iconic showdown, exploring the characters, their motivations, and the significance of their confrontation.
If you want to witness Lara Croft Vs The Hideous Hermit -Podgey- for yourself, you have two options:
hermit_grotto_v2.zip (the "v2" fixed a game-breaking bug where the Hermit would clip through the trophy room wall). Install manually. Expect crashes.Podgey, also known as the Hideous Hermit, is a recurring character in the Tomb Raider series. He appears in several games, including The Last Revelation, Chronicles (1999), and The Angel of Darkness (2003). Podgey is a mysterious and unsettling figure, shrouded in mystery. He is often depicted as an old, hooded man with a grotesque appearance, responsible for guarding ancient secrets and treasures.
The encounter between Lara Croft and Podgey takes place in The Last Revelation, set in Egypt. Lara, seeking to uncover the secrets of the Atlantean city of Yamatai, must confront Podgey, who is guarding a crucial artifact. Their confrontation is a pivotal moment in the game, as Lara must navigate through treacherous tombs and avoid deadly traps to reach Podgey.
The final confrontation lasts less than thirty seconds, but it is a masterclass in choreography. Lara, backed against a pit, baits the hermit into a lunge. Instead of dodging, she sidesteps and uses its own momentum to send it sprawling. As it scrabbles back toward her, she doesn’t fire a celebratory shot. She grabs a fistful of the bioluminescent fungi, jams it into the hermit’s open rib-mouth, and then—with a brutal, almost industrial stomp—kicks its lower jaw up into its skull. Explore the church and its surroundings to find
The hermit doesn’t explode. It doesn’t dramatically dissolve. It simply stops moving, collapsing into a heap of pale flesh and bone. The silence that follows is deafening. Lara stands over it, breathing heavily, her tank top torn, a bite mark on her shoulder bleeding freely. She spits out a mouthful of her own blood, picks up her dropped flashlight, and limps deeper into the cave.
She still wants the relic. That’s the point.