Tomb Raider Returns: Crystal Dynamics Announces 'Catalyst' and 'Legacy of Atlantis' Remake

A Double Dose of Adventure: Crystal Dynamics Unveils New Tomb Raider and Classic Remake

The gaming world was set abuzz during The Game Awards as Crystal Dynamics made a momentous double announcement, showering fans with not one, but two highly anticipated Tomb Raider projects. The studio has officially revealed "Tomb Raider: Catalyst," a brand-new installment poised to be the most expansive adventure in the franchise's history, alongside a faithful remake of the 1996 classic, "Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis." This dual reveal marks a significant moment for Lara Croft enthusiasts, promising a rich tapestry of exploration and puzzle-solving for years to come.

Catalyst Ignites a New Era in 2027

Set to launch in 2027, "Tomb Raider: Catalyst" represents the first original entry in the series in eight years. The game promises to plunge players into a post-mythical cataclysm, a world reshaped by ancient mysteries and awakened guardians. Lara Croft will be drawn to the rugged landscapes of northern India, a veritable mecca for treasure hunters and adventurers. Here, amidst a gathering of the world's most renowned relic seekers, Lara must race against time and navigate a treacherous web of allegiances to uncover the truth. The narrative will explore themes of trust and betrayal as Lara grapples with the immense power hidden within the fractured lands, a force that could easily fall into the wrong hands.

Crystal Dynamics, in collaboration with Amazon who will serve as publisher, has confirmed that "Catalyst" is being developed on the cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5. This technological foundation is expected to deliver a breathtakingly vast open world, stretching from towering mountains and arid deserts to dense jungles and forgotten ruins. Players can anticipate a dynamic environment filled with secrets, hidden tombs, and intricate puzzles that will test Lara's legendary acrobatic prowess and her sharp intellect. The familiar yet exciting journey will once again be voiced by the talented Alix Wilton Regan, lending her distinctive voice to Lara Croft.

Legacy of Atlantis: A Nostalgic Journey Reimagined

Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the original game, "Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis" is slated for release in 2026. This ambitious remake is a collaborative effort between Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog, aiming to reintroduce the groundbreaking 1996 debut to a modern audience. "Legacy of Atlantis" promises to meticulously re-imagine the classic experience, integrating updated visuals and gameplay mechanics powered by Unreal Engine 5, while staying true to the core narrative of Lara's quest for the fragments of the powerful Scion artifact. Players can expect a familiar yet fresh adventure, replete with newly devised surprises and expanded gameplay sequences that honor the legacy of the original.

A Glimpse into the Future of Gaming

While the Tomb Raider announcements stole the spotlight, The Game Awards also offered a glimpse into other significant gaming developments. Notably, "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" clinched the coveted "Game of the Year" award for 2025, and the Sandfall project achieved a record-breaking nine awards. Furthermore, Larian Studios teased "Divinity," an ambitious undertaking described as the largest game ever created, dwarfing even the acclaimed "Baldur's Gate 3." Adding to the excitement, the director of the original "Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic" is returning with a new single-player RPG, "Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic," aiming to capture the spirit of the beloved classic.