The gaming community was abuzz with excitement during The Game Awards 2025, as a thrilling new development unfolded. A major highlight was the unveiling of Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis. Though some news had leaked prior to the event, the reveal of the remake of the iconic first installment in the beloved action/adventure series delighted fans eager to see the most famous gaming heroine, Lara Croft, in action once more.
A Nostalgic Yet Modern Experience
Scheduled for a 2026 release, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis invites players to rediscover the classic magic on the 30th anniversary of the franchise. This strategic timing allows Crystal Dynamics to focus on a fresh entry in the series, planned for 2027. The development of Legacy of Atlantis is a collaborative effort with the Polish studio Flying Wild Hog, known for titles like Hard Reset, Shadow Warrior, Trek to Yomi, and Evil West.
In an illuminating chat with game director Will Kerslake and studio head Scot Amos from Crystal Dynamics, insights were shared on how the remake aims to stay true to the original’s essence while appealing to modern audiences. “We want to honor the original DNA of Core Design, but through the lens of the modern gamer,” stated Amos. Kerslake added, “We kept the confident Lara and most of the puzzles, but had to completely rebuild the combat and exploration systems.” Despite these updates, fans can look forward to facing the same treacherous traps, including the notorious rolling boulders.
Lara Croft Through The Ages
In a fascinating connection between titles, developers confirmed that Lara Croft in both Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis and the upcoming Tomb Raider: Catalyst is portrayed as the same character at different life stages. Legacy of Atlantis provides a nostalgic look back at her roots, while Catalyst, set in India, showcases Lara at the height of her prowess. Both titles feature the voice talents of British actress Alix Wilton Regan, celebrated for her roles in games such as Mass Effect 3, Dragon Age: Inquisition, and Assassin’s Creed Origins.
These exciting developments herald a new era for Tomb Raider fans, blending nostalgia with fresh experiences, setting the stage for Lara Croft’s enduring legacy.