This write-up covers the version of Tomb Raider (2013) for the PlayStation 3, specifically focusing on applying a 3.55 firmware fix
. This process is typically used by those running legacy Custom Firmware (CFW) to ensure the game remains compatible with older system software versions. Game Overview Tomb Raider (Reboot) Product ID: BLES01834 (European/PAL Release) PlayStation 3 Original Firmware Required: The 3.55 Fix Explained
Modern PS3 games are encrypted with keys corresponding to the firmware version they were released on. Because Tomb Raider
was released during the 4.xx firmware era, it will not natively boot on systems running 3.55 CFW. The "fix" involves replacing the original encrypted files with modified versions signed with 3.55-compatible keys. Required Files
To apply this fix, you generally need a modified archive containing: EBOOT.BIN: The main executable for the game. PARAM.SFO:
The configuration file that defines the required system version. .SPRX files:
Various library files (if applicable) that may also require resigning. Installation Instructions Backup Original Files:
Before making any changes, navigate to your game directory (usually dev_hdd0/GAMES/BLES01834/PS3_GAME/USRDIR/ ) and copy the original to a safe location on your PC. Download the Fix:
Locate the specific BLES01834 3.55 fix. Ensure it matches your Region ID exactly, as using a BLUS (US) fix on a BLES (EU) copy can cause crashes or black screens. Replace Files: Transfer the modified files into the Transfer the modified Set Permissions: If using a file manager like , highlight the game, press
, and select "Fix Permissions" to ensure the system can execute the new files. Launch Game: Start the game through your preferred backup manager. Troubleshooting Black Screen on Boot: bles01834 tomb raider ps3 3-55 fix
Ensure you haven't mixed files from different regions. Also, check if "BD Mirror" or "Internal/External" settings in MultiMAN need to be toggled. Version Error:
If the game still asks for a firmware update, double-check that the has been edited to list as the version.
The BLES01834 region code specifically identifies the European version of the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot for the PlayStation 3. For users running older 3.55 Custom Firmware (CFW), a specific "fix" is often required to bypass the game's original requirement for a higher system firmware. Understanding the BLES01834 3.55 Fix
When Tomb Raider was released in 2013, the PS3 was already several firmware versions past the "golden" 3.55 jailbreak era. To allow the game to run on these older, modified systems, developers released modified files—typically a patched EBOOT.BIN—that trick the console into booting the game without demanding a system update. Key Components of the Fix
Modified EBOOT.BIN: The primary file responsible for launching the game. The "3.55 fix" replaces the original encrypted file with one decrypted and resigned specifically for older firmware.
Param.sfo Edits: Often, the internal metadata of the game must be edited to lower the "System Software" requirement from the default (typically 4.30+) down to 3.55.
PKG Patches: Many versions of this fix are distributed as a .pkg file that can be installed directly through the "Install Package Files" menu on the PS3 XMB. Installation Guide
Backup Your Game: Ensure you have the full Tomb Raider (BLES01834) game folder on your internal or external hard drive.
Locate the Files: Download the 3.55 fix specific to the BLES01834 ID. This usually includes a new EBOOT.BIN and sometimes a PARAM.SFO file. Replace Original Files: This write-up covers the version of Tomb Raider
Navigate to the game directory: GAMES/Tomb Raider [BLES01834]/PS3_GAME/USRDIR/. Delete or rename the original EBOOT.BIN. Copy the fixed EBOOT.BIN into this folder.
Clear Game Data: If you have previously tried to launch the game, go to the Game Data Utility on your PS3 and delete any Tomb Raider data to ensure the new files are used.
Boot via multiMAN: Launch the game through a backup manager like multiMAN or Irisman. Modern Alternative: Updating Your Firmware
The term "bles01834 tomb raider ps3 3-55 fix" refers to a specific patching methodology to downgrade the game’s requirements. There is no official patch from Crystal Dynamics or Square Enix that supports 3.55. Instead, the underground scene developed two primary fixes:
EBOOT.BIN (encrypted for 4.21+) and re-encrypting it with 3.55-compatible keys via tools like TrueAncestor EBOOT Resigner.sprx libraries to remove firmware syscalls.For the average user, Fix #1 is the gold standard.
By: Site Staff
For years, the PlayStation 3 homebrew and backup-loading community has maintained a delicate dance with firmware versions. Among the most sought-after fixes during the early 2010s was the infamous BLES01834 compatibility patch for Tomb Raider (2013). If you were running Custom Firmware (CFW) 3.55—the golden standard for jailbroken PS3s for a long time—this fix was essential.
Here is everything you need to know about the patch, why it was necessary, and how it worked.
Published by: PS3 Legacy Homebrew Hub
Target Firmware: 3.55 (CFW/OFW Hybrids)
Game ID: BLES01834 (Tomb Raider – European/Australian Edition) The "3
Manually Update the Game: If "bles01834" refers to a specific version or patch of "Tomb Raider," try manually updating the game through the PS3's system software or directly from the PS Store.
EBOOT Fix: For some games, particularly those with homebrew or unofficial patches, an EBOOT fix can resolve compatibility or performance issues. However, be cautious and only use such patches from trusted sources to avoid game or system corruption.
Verify Game and System Compatibility:
Reinstall the Game:
Check for Official Patches:
Check Online Forums and Communities:
Hard Reset of the PS3:
Disclaimer: This guide assumes you own a legitimate copy of Tomb Raider and are using a jailbroken PS3 for backup/homebrew purposes. Modifying EBOOTs may violate terms of service in online multiplayer (though the servers for the 2013 PS3 version are largely legacy).