Tomb Raider Video Game Series
Tomb Raider
A series of TPP action adventure games, whose main character is archaeologist Lara Croft. Through video games, comic books and movies, Tomb Raider is among the most recognizable brands of contemporary popular culture.
The first six installments of the series were developed by Core Design studio. In 2005, custody of the series was handed over to the Crystal Dynamics team, known for such series as Legacy of Kain. In 2015-2019, the list of major developers working on the described series also included the Eidos Montreal studio.
As for the publishers of Tomb Raider - between 1996 and 2009, the games under this banner were released by Eidos Interactive. In 2010, after its merger with Square Enix, the latter took over, while in 2022 the rights to the brand were acquired by the Embracer Group; as a result, the next big game under the banner was to be published by Amazon Games.
A brief history of the Tomb Raider series
The series debuted in 1996 with the game Tomb Raider. The production set a path that the series followed until 2013, when the Crystal Dynamics studio gave us a reboot it had prepared, also titled Tomb Raider.
In the meantime, the series lived to see a number of side-representatives. In 2010 debuted isometric game Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, which was followed 4 years later by Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris. In 2015, an endless runner appeared on mobile devices under the title Lara Croft: Relic Run, as well as the adventure-logic Lara Croft GO. The year 2023 brought the release of yet another mobile item - Tomb Raider Reloaded - while 2024 saw the debut of a compilation of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, containing refreshed versions of the first three parts of the series.
The plot in the games of the Tomb Raider series
The creators intended the main character - Lara Croft - to be a female version of Indiana Jones. The designers, headed by Toby Gard, took care to emphasize her visual appeal. It's worth noting that the 2013 reboot of the series didn't miss this aspect either, making Lara enjoy a more realistic outfit and silhouette ever since.
In addition to the obvious changes in the appearance of the main character, Lara Croft underwent a major psychological transformation in 2013.. The creators allowed us to get to know her as a young woman of only twenty-one, going on an expedition to the ancient country of Yamatai to prove herself as an archaeologist. From now on, the series was to be devoted not only to the exploration of more tombs, but above all to the path the young protagonist must take to become the tough and indomitable Lara Croft known from the first games.
At the same time, the plot of the series is not a coherent whole. Players generally learn about Lara Croft's separate adventures in each installment, although some themes, characters and locations recur several times in different parts of the series. The heroine herself also has several versions of her biography - there is even talk of four different variants. The first is the plot of the first six games in the series Tomb Raider. Another is contained in the games: Tomb Raider: Legend i Tomb Raider: Underworld and in the first two films. The third biography of Miss Croft was presented in comic books published by Top Cow, while the fourth appeared with the reboot of the series in 2013.
Gameplay in the Tomb Raider series games
Gameplay in the games in the series Tomb Raider is based on a combination of arcade platformer, adventure and shooter elements. The player directs the actions of the main character, watching the action from behind her back. The game mainly consists of exploring exotic locations (catacombs, interiors of pyramids, caves, dungeons, etc.), eccentrically overcoming terrain obstacles and traps, solving puzzles and fighting opponents.. The heroine makes use of firearms and white weapons, and can both engage in open fire exchanges and act quietly, eliminating enemies by surprise (the latter aspect of gameplay was significantly developed in the 2013 reboot and its sequels).
The success of the Tomb Raider series
In 2022, it was revealed that the series Tomb Raider had found more than 90 million buyers. Its popularity is evidenced by the fact that in 2006 Lara Croft was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as "the most successful computer game character in real life."
As one of the few fictional characters in the video game world, she also has an official face. This role has been played by models Rhona Mitra and Alison Carroll, as well as actress Angelina Jolie, among others. The latter has appeared in two film adaptations - Tomb Raider (2001) i Tomb Raider: the Cradle of Life (2003), which proved to be blockbusters. In 2018, another film about the adventures of the archaeologist lady entered theaters, this time based on the 2013 installment of the game and also rebooting the cinematic series. The lead role was played by Academy Award winner Alicia Vikander. Nevertheless, the production was not as warmly received as the game reboot was. The brand also lived to see its own series of comic books and books.
Tomb Raider Series Evolution
2025
Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered
2024
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered
2023
Tomb Raider Reloaded
2021
Tomb Raider: Definitive Survivor Trilogy
2018
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
2015
Rise of the Tomb Raider
2015
Lara Croft GO
2015
Lara Croft: Relic Run
2014
Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris
2013
Tomb Raider
2011
Tomb Raider Trilogy
2010
Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light
2008
Tomb Raider: Underworld
2007
Tomb Raider: Anniversary
2006
Tomb Raider: Legend
2003
Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness
2000
Tomb Raider: Chronicles
1999
Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation
1998
Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft
1997
Tomb Raider II: The Dagger of Xian
1996
Tomb Raider (1996)
Tomb Raider 13
Action
TBA
It is a TPP action adventure game, the thirteenth installment in the series about the adventures of Lara Croft, but not a direct continuation of the previous part. Game was developed entirely on Unreal Engine 5 technology.
Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered
Action
February 14, 2025
A collection of remastered versions of Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation, Chronicles and Angel of Darkness, made by Aspyr Media. Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered set features an optional modern controls scheme, better character models & textures and high resolutions support.
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered
Action
February 14, 2024
A remastered compilation of the first three Tomb Raider action adventure games. Tomb Raider I-III Remastered features refreshed visuals, new character models and textures.
Tomb Raider Reloaded
Action
February 14, 2023
Tomb Raider Reloaded is a mobile version of the famous series of action adventure games. The game focuses on a more cartoon-like setting and atmosphere and has been developed with a free-to-play model in mind. It was created by Emerald City Games and Square Enix London.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Survivor Trilogy
Action
March 18, 2021
Tomb Raider: Definitive Survivor Trilogy is a compilation of all three games about Lara Croft's beginnings (Tomb Raider, Rise of the Tomb Raider, Shadow of the Tomb Raider) by Square Enix. The trilogy is both a prequel and a reboot of the series about the adventures of the archaeologist.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
Action
September 14, 2018
Another entry in the bestselling series of action-adventure games. It is also the third entry in the saga about the beginnings of Lara Croft’s career that started in 2013. In Shadow of the Tomb Raider the female protagonist journeys to Latin America, where she discovers mysteries hidden within ruins and solves the mystery related to the Order of Trinity and the research conducted by her father.
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The Forge November 13, 2018
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The Pillar December 18, 2018
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The Nightmare January 22, 2019
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The Price of Survival February 12, 2019
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The Serpent's Heart March 5, 2019
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The Grand Caiman March 29, 2019
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The Path Home April 23, 2019
Rise of the Tomb Raider
Action
November 10, 2015
Another installment in the popular series of action adventure games, once again developed by Crystal Dynamics, the studio that brought us the successful reboot of the franchise. In terms of plot, the game continues the story arcs started in the previous part. Again we accompany the young, although tougher and more ruthless, Lara Croft. Unlike in the previous game, this time we visit different parts of the world, exploring larger and more open places. As for the mechanics, the production combines the survival aspects of its predecessor with the exploration of the many tombs and catacombs, which is the hallmark of the series. The gameplay is therefore full of numerous stealth elements as well as purely arcade sequences, including open exchanges of fire. Lara also uses a number of brand new weapons and gadgets. Designed for eighth-generation console, the production features high-quality graphics, which represents an important rise in quality as compared to the previous parts of the series.
- Rise of the Tomb Raider: Baba Yaga - The Temple of the Witch January 26, 2016
- Rise of the Tomb Raider: Blood Ties October 11, 2016
Lara Croft GO
Adventure
August 27, 2015
A spin-off to the adventures of the beautiful archaeologist Lara Croft, created for mobile platforms users by one of Square Enix’s studios, which also created a mobile game featuring Agent 47. Gameplay combines elements characteristic for the Tomb Raider series – e.g. exploring ruins and tombs filled with traps – with turn-based logic game mechanics borrowed from Hitman GO. The action is presented in isometric view and the player’s goal is to go through various locations by moving on predefined paths, disable traps, and fight enemies. To make matters more difficult, a part of a location is not visible at the beginning, so you need to precisely plan what to do – each inconsiderate move costs a lot. The game features simple hand-drawn graphics and an atmospheric soundtrack.
Lara Croft: Relic Run
Arcade
May 26, 2015
A mobile arcade game from the endless runner subgenre, created by studio Simutronis. It allows you to become Lara Croft – the protagonist of the cult Tomb Raider series. Just like many similar titles, Lara Croft: Relic Run doesn’t contain a rich storyline – it just allows you to control the eponymous character during her numerous adventures in search of precious artifacts. In the game Lara automatically runs ahead and your task is to command her to jump, slide or change direction at the right moment with gestures. Apart from that, there are many combat sequences, both with common enemies and mighty bosses (like a Tyrannosaurus). Sometimes you can also show your acrobatic talent by running on the wall or doing some other evolutions in order to avoid various threats. The gameplay is also more attractive thanks to a simple character progression system, online leaderboards and well recreated atmosphere of the Tomb Raider series.
Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris
Action
December 9, 2014
A continuation of the warmly-received spin-off of the Tomb Raider series in which adventures of beautiful archaeologist are seen from the isometric view, which is unusual for the series. The game is once again developed by Crystal Dynamics and this time the action takes us to Egypt, where you will visit the titular Temple of Osiris as well as some other places. Mechanics have not changed – complemented with characteristic elements of the Tomb Raider series, like exploration and solving puzzles, combat and arcade aspects are emphasized. Gameplay concentrates on cooperation, offering, apart from Lara, three other playable characters of various classes and skills. Interestingly, depending on the number of players, gameplay will be different. More players means more puzzles and more enemies. As the game debuted on the new generation of consoles, visuals are stunning.
Tomb Raider
Action
March 5, 2013
The tenth iteration of adventures of Lara Croft, released as a reboot of the original, cult action-adventure series - Tomb Raider. The game was developed by Crystal Dynamics Studios under the auspices of Eidos Montreal. Their goal was to re-imagine the heroine in a new, grittier way. The game is set on an island near the coast of Japan, where young Lara Croft came in search for relics of ancient civilizations. Unfortunately, she gets shipwrecked during a storm. The protagonist survives, but now she has to fight for survival in a mysterious, deadly place. As compared with the previous installments, the new Tomb Raider offers much greater freedom of exploration, and introduces some innovations in gameplay mechanics, such as crafting and a character progression system. The game is powered by the very efficient Crystal Engine, able to generate high quality visuals.
Tomb Raider Trilogy
Action
March 22, 2011
Tomb Raider Trilogy is a compilation of three action games created by Crystal Dynamics for PlayStation 3. The set includes Tomb Raider: Legend, Tomb Raider: Anniversary and Tomb Raider: Underworld. Players have the opportunity to take on the role of sexy adventurer Lara Croft and embark on a quest for legendary treasures.
Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light
Action
August 18, 2010
An unusual spin-off to the legendary Tomb Raider series. The game was developed by Crystal Dynamics - the creators of the franchise's latest installments. The game follows the adventures of a beautiful female archeologist and her friend - a Mayan warrior by the name of Totec. The characters set out for a journey, searching for a mysterious artifact known as Mirror of Smoke, which is to be used against the evil Xolotl, who has gained the power to control other spirits. Contrary to the third-person perspective the Tomb Raider games are usually played in, the spin-off is an isometric game resembling hack'n'slash titles in this aspect. The gameplay focuses on arcade elements and combat sequences, in which the player encounters hordes of ghosts - a special emphasis was placed on cooperation. The two characters have different abilities, therefore, close cooperation is the key to success. However, it is also worth mentioning that the game features elements which could be considered hallmarks of the Tomb Raider series as well, such as exploration of tombs and catacombs.
Tomb Raider: Underworld
Action
November 18, 2008
Developed once again by Crystal Dynamics, another installment of the third-person perspective adventure series started in 1996. Tomb Raider: Underworld is a continuation of the events from previous parts of the series and concentrates on the search for artifacts connected with the Nordic god Thor. On her journey, Lara Croft visits new locations, like Thailand and south Mexico, and dives in the Mediterranean Sea and the Arctic Ocean. The game offers elements characteristic for the series, like exploring tombs in places associated with mythical realms of death: Xibalba, Valhalla, or Niflheim. The game’s mechanics remain mostly unchanged, but the gameplay has become more non-linear. Lara has a new set of tricks and a useful gadget – a rope with a grappling hook. Graphics were changed also and now they have more dark and gloomy atmosphere.
Tomb Raider: Anniversary
Action
June 1, 2007
An official remake of the classic first installment in the acclaimed Tomb Raider series. It was created for the original game's tenth anniversary, having been released in 1996 both for PCs and the PlayStation consoles. Tomb Raider: Anniversary was developed by Crystal Dynamics (Tomb Raider: Legend) - a studio which took over the development of the franchise from its original creators - Core Design. The remake does not bring any differences to the original game's plot. The player assumes the role of Lara Croft - an archeologist hired by a powerful organization wishing to retrieve a mythical artifact. Although the remake includes the same weapons, enemies and locations, certain in-game environments were improved and slightly extended, for the remake utilizes a more powerful engine. The main difference between the remake and the original game lies in the visuals, remade from scratch, and modernized controls borrowed from the franchise's latest installments. The latter gives more opportunities to the protagonist and makes movement more flexible.
Tomb Raider: Legend
Action
April 7, 2006
The seventh major installment of the Tomb Raider series. As the previous parts of the game were not received very well, a new studio – Crystal Dynamics, with Toby Gard, the creator of the original series, in its ranks – was entrusted with the game. Setting-wise, the title goes back to its roots, which means exploring ancient tombs and catacombs. During the gameplay you will visit a number of exotic locations, including Himalayas, Bolivia, Peru, Japan, Ghana, Malaysia, England, and Kazakhstan. The production offers new skills, weapons, and a whole new range of useful gadgets unavailable before. Lara’s character has also changed, both mentally and visually. The graphics are powered by a new engine, which allows for bigger interaction with the environment and changing weather conditions.
Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness
Action
June 21, 2003
The sixth installment in the popular series featuring the tenacious archaeologist Lara Croft. In Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness the protagonist is falsely accused of killing her former mentor, who is also the main antagonist – Werner Von Croy. During the game Lara is forced to go into hiding. She tries to clear her name through conversations with other characters and associating facts. This fact changes gameplay dramatically and pushes it more towards a classic adventure game. RPG elements play a crucial role in the game – with the game's progress Lara becomes stronger and gradually develops her abilities. The action takes place primarily on the streets of Paris and Prague. Sometimes the player gets to control Lara’s friend – Kurtis. The game features improved, impressive visuals.
Tomb Raider: The Prophecy
Action
November 12, 2002
The next installment of Lara Croft's adventures. This time the archaeologist tries to bring about the fulfillment of a prophecy. In order to do so, almost 30 levels have to be overcome. The action is shown in isometric projection.
Tomb Raider Collection (2001)
Action
August 10, 2001
Collector's edition of four parts of games from the Tomb Raider series, published in connection with the premiere of "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider". In a special "Lara PACK" there are Tomb Raider: Unfinished Business, Tomb Raider II: The Golden Mask, Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft and Tomb Raider 4: The Last Revelation.
Tomb Raider: Chronicles
Action
November 17, 2000
The fifth full-fledged installment in the bestselling Tomb Raider series. Again, the player assumes the role of a comely British traveler and treasure hunter by the name of Lara Croft. Contrary to the previous installments, the plot here is based on retrospections and divided into four separate episodes. Thus the protagonist travels to Rome in search for the legendary Philosopher's Stone, tries to prevent Russian mobsters from obtaining the mythical Spear of Destiny and goes back to the times of her youth, visiting a demonic island in Ireland. In the last episode, Lara tries to take an artifact called Iris (Tomb Raider 4) from Werner von Croy, breaking into the antagonist's modern-design skyscraper. The game expands the mechanics of the previous installments and features several new ones, including mainly line walking and an ability to swing from sticks. Additionally, the game features a functional level editor.
Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation
Action
November 22, 1999
Another installment in the popular action adventure game series by Core Design, featuring the sexy archaeologist as the main role. The action of Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation starts in Cambodia, in the Angkor Wat temple, but the main part of the plot takes place in Egypt, where the heroine happened to have released the evil god Seth, which threatens the whole humanity. To save the world, Lara needs to collect every piece of the mythical Armour of Horus and call upon his help in order to fight the enemy. In contrast to the previous installments of the series, Tomb Raider 4 emphasizes freedom – each location can be visited numerous times in any order. Other elements of the series are virtually unchanged, except the developer gave Lara some new abilities and weapons unavailable before. Tomb Raider 4 is the first title in the series that introduces an option of combining items, which allows us to modify our equipment.
Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft
Action
November 15, 1998
The third installment in a popular series of action-adventure games developed by Core Design and following the story of the fearless Lara Croft - an archeologist searching for legendary artifacts all around the world. In Tomb Raider III, the protagonist tries to find four mysterious artifacts carved from an ancient meteorite. In so doing, she visits five different locations, including a jungle in India, islands in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean, dark rooftops of London, an underground secret base known as Area 51 and the frosty Antarctica. Interestingly, the game is non-linear to a specific extent, for the player sets the order of visiting particular locations, excluding the first and one which comes the last. The next installment is based on the best mechanics of the predecessors, although several improvements were made. These include the addition of new movements, previously unavailable vehicles and weapons, as well as the increase in the number of different enemy types.
- Tomb Raider III: The Lost Artifact March 8, 2000
Tomb Raider II: The Dagger of Xian
Action
October 31, 1997
A sequel to a groundbreaking action-adventure game released in 1996. In the original game, the player followed the adventures of the extraordinary Lara Croft - an archeologist exploring ancient tombs located all around the world, searching for valuable artifacts. In Tomb Raider II created again by Core Design, the plot focuses around the search for a mythical dagger from the Xian temple. The item itself is capable of turning a human being into a powerful dragon. Following the traces of the legendary dagger, the protagonist visits different locations, such as the Great Wall of China, Venice, Tibet, an oil rig or undersea depths. When it comes to the mechanics, the sequel remains faithful to the original game, delivering an alluring combination of an action-adventure game with platformer elements in third person perspective. However, the game features a number of new elements as well, such as different movements added, new weapons or enemies. Thanks to the modern-day 3D accelerators, the visuals were noticeably improved as well.
Tomb Raider (1996)
Action
November 3, 1996
A TPP action game with platformer elements, in which we play as the brave and attractive female archaeologist Lara Croft. Our protagonist sets out in search of a mystical artifact named Scion, which lies inside the tomb of Qualopec, located deep in the Peruvian jungle. After her guide dies at the very beginning of the journey, Lara is forced to face all the dangers waiting within ancient structures, tunnels, and catacombs on her own. And this is just the beginning of her adventure, which will lead her from ancient Rome, through Egyptian pyramids, and to several other exotic places. Tomb Raider’s gameplay skillfully combines the elements of an adventure game with the features of a platformer (e.g. climbing rock shelves) and action sequences, during which you will be facing wild animals and armed humans.
Tomb Raider Series News
Large, Open World in New Tomb Raider Sounds Intriguing. Latest Rumors Suggest Lara Croft Will Ride a Motorcycle
The new game in the Tomb Raider series will reportedly offer an open world. We've learned alleged details about the Crystal Dynamics studio's new game.
video games
Zuzanna Domeradzka
May 6, 2024
Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered - All Modern Controls
Not familiar with the modern controls in Tomb Raider I-III Remastered? Our guide with a list of all controls for each platform comes to the rescue!
How to
Dawid Lubczynski
February 15, 2024
Tomb Raider 1-3 Remasters to Include Warnings of Harmful, Stereotypical Content
The developers of Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered have not removed the harmful stereotypes in the Lara Croft trilogy. Instead, the Crystal Dynamics studio added a warning against content that can be offensive to people and cultures.
video games
Jacob Blazewicz
February 14, 2024
Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered - Backflip and Sideflip with Modern Controls
Do you want to use modern controls in Tomb Raider I-III Remastered? You may have some problems with Backflip and Sideflip. Let’s learn more about it.
How to
Damian Gacek
February 14, 2024
Handful of Details On Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered. Devs Discuss Gameplay and Graphics Novelties
Right before the release of Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered, the developers from Aspyr Media studio have shared a lot of information about the refreshed classic trilogy.
video games
Kamil Kleszyk
January 17, 2024
Embracer Keeps on Firing (People); Tomb Raider Devs Next on the List
Another wave of layoffs at Embracer has affected the creators of the Tomb Raider series. As a result of the restructuring, 10 employees were to have said goodbye to Crystal Dynamics.
video games
Marcin Przała
October 8, 2023
Official Remasters of First Tomb Raider Trilogy Announced
Official remasters of the first three installments of the Tomb Raider series have been announced. The collection will be released next year.
video games
Zuzanna Domeradzka
September 15, 2023
Here's AI Playing Tomb Raider and Comments on Its Own Actions as Lara
An experiment by an Internet user shows what games of the future could look like if their characters were aware of themselves, their surroundings and the situation they are in.
video games
Kamil Kleszyk
September 3, 2023
Classic Tomb Raider Never Looked so Good (and Demanded so Much)
The original Tomb Raider was a game whose visuals have aged badly, but thanks to Nvidia's tool, the angular models now look truly insane.
video games
Kamil Kleszyk
August 8, 2023
Tomb Raider and Deus Ex Devs Prepare Big AAA Offensive
Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montreal have ambitious plans for the future. They want to release five AAA games by 2028.
video games
Zuzanna Domeradzka
February 17, 2023