Ice Palace ...continued

The Gong Show (down)
When you get to the boulder room, pause for a moment to reflect on the very first mission of the game. This is same type of trap that launched your first running episode - only on a lot bigger scale. Enter the room in a full-tilt run and curve to the left. Make for the hole in the far wall - only a perfect running jump into it will keep you from becoming an abominable snowwoman.

Down the passage, stop when you get to the edge of the cliff. Turn around and slide down the slope, grab button held down. Shimmy all the way down to the left, pull up, and backflip to a flat spot. Turn and stand before the wide snowladder of a wall. Climb to the opening at the top.

Enter and walk to the next ledge. Turn and slide, grab button pressed down. Take a look at that gong! Only when Lara's fully extended should you release.

You can hammer the gong now, or defer instant gratification in lieu of this mission's final secret.

Secret 3

Strike the gong and climb over either side of the platform and locate the now-open doorways into the heart of the Ice Palace. The Talion Key rests on the large block. Select your favorite long-distance killing device and head for the floor: It's Lara versus Big Ugly in a Talion Key showdown.

Because this boss possesses no ranged attacks and is too big to climb, the easiest victory path begins when you call him into action (by setting foot on the ground). Immediately turn tail and climb to a safe position on the Ice Palace. You are free to take pot shots. If you prefer to go toe-to-talon, be our guest. Keep moving and abuse that fire button. No matter how you decide to work over Big Bird, the moment he gives up the ghost the level ends. Enjoy the cutscene. We'll be waiting for you at the Temple's gate.

Next Stop: Temple of Xian