Lara Croft fans have been spoiled, as Amazon Game Studios and Crystal Dynamics confirmed not one but two major Tomb Raider projects heading to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Steam.
Tomb Raider: Catalyst is the next big chapter for the franchise, while Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis reimagines the 1996 classic for the modern era – and both look set to redefine what we expect from the iconic adventurer.
Before we dive in, here is a quick breakdown of what was announced:
- Two new Tomb Raider titles revealed: Tomb Raider: Catalyst and Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis
- Catalyst is a brand-new adventure powered by Unreal Engine 5
- Legacy of Atlantis fully reimagines Lara’s 1996 debut
- Catalyst launches in 2027 – Legacy of Atlantis arrives in 2026
- Both games release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Steam
- Actress Alix Wilton Regan will portray Lara Croft across both titles
Twin Announcements Bring Tomb Raider Back Into The Spotlight
Fans have waited years for the next chapter in Lara’s journey, especially after the previous reboot, and Tomb Raider: Catalyst finally lifts the lid on what’s next.
Developed by Crystal Dynamics and published by Amazon Game Studios, Catalyst sees Lara venture across Northern India in the aftermath of a mythic cataclysm. The disaster has unearthed buried secrets, awakened ancient guardians, and attracted treasure hunters from around the world – all racing for the same prize.
Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Catalyst promises the largest Tomb Raider world ever built, offering sprawling landscapes, intricate tombs and a storyline based on trust, betrayal and the blurred line between myth and reality. Lara’s arsenal, gadgets and traversal tech are evolving too, making this a true generational leap for the series.
Digging Into Tomb Raider: Catalyst
Catalyst throws Lara into a landscape transformed by supernatural upheaval. With rival hunters circling and the world shifting beneath her feet, Lara will have to decide who she can rely on before the ancient and modern worlds collide catastrophically.
Exploring Northern India, players will encounter vast environments hiding lost tombs, elaborate puzzles and rich storytelling threads that push the series deeper into mythical territory than ever before.
Crystal Dynamics is promising its most technically ambitious Tomb Raider to date, with Catalyst using cutting-edge visuals to expand the series’ cinematic reach.
Tomb Raider: Catalyst launches in 2027.
Legacy Reborn In Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis
The surprise reveal of Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis electrified longtime fans. Developed jointly by Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog, this modern reimagining returns to the adventure that started it all – but rebuilt from the ground up.
Lara’s original trek for the Scion is reborn with Unreal Engine 5 visuals, expanded storylines and reworked challenges that honour the spirit of the 1996 classic while refreshing it for a new generation.
From deadly traps to forgotten temples, from exotic ruins to vicious predators, Legacy of Atlantis is set to blend nostalgia with contemporary design on an epic scale.
The game arrives in 2026.
A Unified Lara Croft For A Unified Franchise
Both games feature actress Alix Wilton Regan as Lara Croft, bringing a consistent performance across these distinct adventures. Her past work in Dragon Age: Inquisition, Cyberpunk 2077 and Mass Effect 3 positions her well to bring depth and energy to the role as the franchise enters a new era.
“Tomb Raider stands among gaming’s most beloved and enduring franchises, and we’re thrilled to partner with Crystal Dynamics to bring two distinct Lara Croft adventures to players worldwide,” said Christoph Hartmann, VP of Amazon Game Studios. “This innovative new chapter with Tomb Raider: Catalyst, and the thoughtful reinvention of the series’ roots with Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, perfectly exemplifies our commitment to supporting developers with bold creative visions. We’re focused on delivering rich, story-driven experiences that resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers, strengthening our dedication to high-quality gaming experiences.“
“Our collaboration with Amazon Game Studios has been truly transformative for these ambitious projects,” said Scot Amos, Head of Studio at Crystal Dynamics. “Amazon’s partnership has provided the resources, expertise, and creative freedom necessary to realize our vision for both games without compromise. With Tomb Raider: Catalyst, we’re crafting our most expansive and innovative Tomb Raider adventure yet, while Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis allows us to revisit where it all began through a modern lens. This collaboration with Amazon has empowered us to create experiences that honor Lara’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for the franchise.“
“Our partnership with Crystal Dynamics and Amazon Game Studios marks one of the most significant creative undertakings in our history,” said Michał Szustak, CEO of Flying Wild Hog. “Bringing our passion and expertise into such an iconic IP is both an honor and a creative thrill. Crafting a modern reimagining of Lara’s original adventure is a responsibility we embrace with passion and absolute focus. With Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, we’re expanding the universe while staying loyal to what fans have always loved. We can’t wait for players around the world to experience the results of our hard work and dedication.“
A Huge Moment For Tomb Raider Fans Everywhere
Two games. Two visions. One iconic heroine. Amazon Game Studios and Crystal Dynamics are not just reviving Tomb Raider – they’re catapulting it into a bold new future.
Whether you’re chasing the reimagined thrills of Legacy of Atlantis or diving into the sweeping new adventure found in Catalyst, Lara Croft’s next era looks set to be one of the most exciting in the franchise’s long history.
