An exciting new chapter in the Tomb Raider series is on the horizon. Crystal Dynamics has revealed plans for a brand new Tomb Raider game set to launch in 2022, in collaboration with Amazon. This upcoming title, named Tomb Raider Catalyst, will focus on a single-player narrative experience powered by Unreal Engine 5. Fans can look forward to diving into this game in 2027, as it aims to bring together various facets of the Tomb Raider universe.
In a surprising twist, a remake of the original 1996 Tomb Raider game has also been announced. Titled Legacy of Atlantis, this project is a joint effort between Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog, known for their work on the Shadow Warrior series. The release date for Legacy of Atlantis has been pushed back to February 2027, offering fans a chance to revisit Lara Croft’s origins in a fresh new light.
Notably, this isn’t the first time the original Tomb Raider has undergone a remake. Back in 2007, Crystal Dynamics worked with Buzz Monkey Software to release Tomb Raider: Anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the franchise’s history.
Jeff Adams, the game’s experience director, shared his thoughts on the project, stating, “As we approach Lara Croft’s 30th anniversary, we believe this is the perfect moment to reintroduce this iconic adventure to both loyal fans and newcomers. Legacy of Atlantis serves as a solid entry point for those unfamiliar with the series, laying the foundation for what’s yet to come.”
While the visual aspects of the game have been enhanced, the focus remains on capturing the essence of the original Tomb Raider experience. Arek Tomaszewski, the art director at Flying Wild Hog, emphasized the team’s goal of evoking the same sense of wonder and excitement that players felt decades ago.
Raul Siqueira, the game director at Crystal Dynamics, elaborated on the design philosophy behind Legacy of Atlantis, stating, “While we draw inspiration from the original game and its remake, Tomb Raider: Anniversary, we’ve also introduced modern elements to appeal to today’s gaming audience. It’s a delicate balance of preserving the classic charm while incorporating contemporary features.”
By leveraging modern technology, the development teams have expanded the game world to provide a more immersive experience for players. Siqueira explained, “While we stay true to the original locations like Peru, we have the freedom to enrich these environments with new details and gameplay mechanics. This approach allows us to honor the source material while introducing innovative elements.”
He added, “Our goal is to enhance the original game without overshadowing it. Legacy of Atlantis is a tribute to the fans, blending nostalgia with fresh perspectives to create a memorable gaming experience.”
The project also incorporates elements of AI technology during the development phase, although Adams clarified that human input remains integral to the final product. The team aims to strike a balance between honoring the past and embracing modern advancements in gaming.
The trend of remakes in the gaming industry reflects a desire to modernize classic titles while honoring their legacy.
Legacy of Atlantis joins a wave of remakes in the gaming industry, showcasing a trend of revitalizing beloved franchises with a contemporary twist. From Resident Evil: Code Veronica to Rayman Legends Retold, these projects seek to pay homage to the original while introducing new elements for today’s audience.
Siqueira noted, “We are inspired by the success of other remakes like Final Fantasy and Resident Evil, which have struck a balance between nostalgia and innovation. Our aim is to deliver a remake that resonates with fans while offering a fresh perspective on the classic Tomb Raider experience.”
Tomaszewski echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of respecting the fan base and building upon established foundations. He stated, “Our approach mirrors that of successful franchises that have reimagined their classics with care and creativity. By staying true to the essence of the original game, we aim to create a remake that honors the past while embracing the future.”
Disclosure: Alex Forbes-Calvin has previously collaborated with Crystal Dynamics on the Chronicles of the Tomb Raider