Lara Croft’s return is highly anticipated as fans await the next Tomb Raider installment from Crystal Dynamics, confirmed to use Unreal Engine 5. The series, which has a rich legacy dating back to the original PlayStation, has seen recent remastering efforts, with classic titles set for release in 2024 and 2025. Speculation about a comprehensive collection of pivotal games like Tomb Raider Legend and Anniversary is growing, especially with the excitement building for the new game reveal at the upcoming Game Awards.
The Anticipation for the Next Tomb Raider Adventure
Lara Croft has been on a long pause, and fans are eagerly awaiting what’s next for the Tomb Raider series. With Shadow of the Tomb Raider feeling like a distant memory, the excitement surrounding the forthcoming installment from Crystal Dynamics is palpable. While details remain scarce, it’s confirmed that the new game will utilize Unreal Engine 5, aiming to unite fans across generations. Whether you joined the adventure in 2013 with the reboot, experienced the franchise through Tomb Raider Legend in 2006, or are a veteran from its inception in 1996, there’s something for everyone. However, before we dive into the next chapter, we can look forward to the return of Lara’s classic adventures in fully remastered versions, which many fans hope will culminate in a comprehensive collection.
Tomb Raider’s Legacy and PlayStation’s 30th Anniversary
The Tomb Raider series has enjoyed a significant legacy, especially for players who first encountered Lara on the original PlayStation. Back then, Tomb Raider was nothing short of a phenomenon. The captivating heroine and engaging gameplay, despite some challenges, helped establish an icon. Lara Croft emerged as a symbol of a new era of female protagonists and was even featured prominently on PlayStation packaging. As PlayStation celebrated its 30th anniversary on December 2nd with a nostalgic video showcasing nearly three decades of gaming milestones, it was only fitting that Tomb Raider made an appearance, albeit briefly. The remastered versions of classics like Tomb Raider 2, Angel of Darkness, and Tomb Raider Legend highlighted her enduring legacy.
While Tomb Raider Legend is currently available in its classic form exclusively through the PS Plus Premium subscription, fans are hopeful for a more complete remaster. The recent buzz surrounding a potential leak from an Amazon product page has sparked speculation about an ultimate compilation featuring Tomb Raider Legend, Anniversary, and Underworld. These titles are pivotal in the franchise’s evolution, laying essential groundwork for future installments.
With the remastering of Tomb Raider 1-3 set for a 2024 release and a collection of episodes 4 to 6 planned for February 14, 2025, the anticipation for an ultimate compilation continues to grow. While there’s no official confirmation yet, the enthusiasm surrounding the franchise is undeniable, and it’s hard to imagine Embracer Group not pursuing this opportunity, especially given the popularity of these beloved games. This could serve as the perfect setup for the unveiling of the much-anticipated new installment, which we hope to see at the upcoming Game Awards.