It is not really in Lara Croft’s nature to celebrate a birthday by getting a makeover — but Tomb Raider developers have done just that as the character turns 28.
Crystal Dynamics has released a still image of how the adventurer which could give fans a hint as to the future of the series which will see titles published by Amazon Games.
Fans have seen the new image on tombraider.com, which hints as to what could be on the horizon after developer Crystal and publisher Aspyr released remastered versions of the three original games this year.
Over the past decade, Lara Croft has pursued adventures in the Survivor trilogy of games released in 2013, 2015 and 2018.
The character has evolved from the first game in 1996 but the latest design shows that Croft has perhaps gone back to her roots.
She is shown in his latest incarnation in her original turquoise tank top and shooting two pistols — breaking away from the bow and arrow of the 2018 Alicia Vikander film.
Eagle-eyed fans may even notice that the necklace she wears in this image — a jade pendant — is a relic of the latest game, Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
This shows that the next game will likely move the storyline forward and will not be a reboot or new universe.
Crystal Dynamics has made the games since 2006 when it took over from Core Design — the Derby studio which made the original PlayStation series. Eidos-Montréal made the most recent title, however.
The new design was released on February 14 — the same day that the remastered I-III titles went on sale for modern consoles. Valentine’s Day is also Croft’s birthday.
The evolution of Lara Croft. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/onHk7l2czv
— SmashLara • Tomb Raider News (@SmashLara) February 15, 2024
Such is the popularity of the series of video games and films that Tomb Raider even had an exhibition in London in 2021.
Of course, nothing will beat news of a new game in the franchise — or, even better, a first look at gameplay.
Mystic Geek posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Finally, back to her original look, same clothes, same hair, and her two pistols.”
“Actually really liked the design for her, was hoping they'd continue and if anything could lead to her classic look,” another user said.
Samantha Foster added: “I wonder how many years it might be before they show gameplay.”
