Crystal Dynamics has released a first image of the new Lara Croft for the upcoming Tomb Raider game, but looks may be deceiving.
The Tomb Raider saga seems to be in great shape with several projects in development. This year, Netflix will release the animated series subtitled The Legend of Lara Croft, and Prime Video is still working on a live-action adaptation in an episodic format. A TV show which could be the start of a large connected universe, with new films to feed the machine. But what fans of the adventurer are waiting for is the future game planned exclusively for PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC. A title which may have revealed the new version of Lara Croft… or not!
Lara Croft from the next Tomb Raider revealed? The studio responds!
When will the real announcement of the next Tomb Raider game be made? Good question ! There were a lot of rumors about an “imminent” presentation each time, then radio silence afterwards. Things are clearly progressing well, even if the studio does not seem ready to communicate and the situation is a little complex. Crystal Dynamics in fact belongs to the giant Embracer Group which has swallowed up a considerable number of companies in record time. Growth that was too rapid, and perhaps not so thoughtful, which led to numerous layoffs and closures.
Crystal Dynamics was affected, but did not lose key elements working on the new Tomb Raider. And for what it’s worth, Embracer has claimed multiple times that the next game is in no danger. A speech to put into perspective given the current chaotic situation. To keep players waiting, and reassure them a little, the developers have posted an image of the new Lara Croft. An artwork of the “unified” adventurer which mixes old and new design.
A first look at Lara’s appearance in Tomb Raider UE5? According to a Spanish media outlet, which contacted Crystal Dynamics, no. “The developers of the new TR have informed us that the image does not necessarily correspond to the design of Lara Croft in the future game. It is above all a cliché of a unified Lara” (via Vandal). A statement that will perhaps disappoint some, and which aims to temper expectations until the studio is actually ready to share concert details. And this is not the case for the moment, as confirmed to the Spanish media.
After the remastered collection, an Amazon Prime Video series
If you’re in a hurry to find Lara Croft, you can go back to the old ones with Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered. A compilation with the first three parts of the cult saga, but with more modern graphics and controls. A touch of modernity that is nevertheless optional, because at any time, it is possible to switch to the “Tank” controls of the original games, and to the pixelated graphics. An à la carte experience so as not to offend almost anyone. Some might have preferred true remakes, not remasters. A collection, a new PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC game, a Netflix animated production… and a Prime Video series, it’s starting to happen.
And besides, the Tomb Raider series on Prime Video, is it progressing? According to the latest news, yes. The show is still directed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who starred in the Amazon program Fleabag, with writing assistance from Megan McDonnell. She will be one of the screenwriters and has already lent her pen to Marvel projects like Disney+’s WandaVision or the film The Marvels. But as with the new game, there is no release window.