Tomb Raider 2 (2024): Legends Awaken

Tomb Raider 2 (2024): A New Chapter in an Iconic Franchise

The Tomb Raider franchise, originally known as Lara Croft Tomb Raider from 2001 to 2008, has captivated audiences for decades. It began as an action-adventure video game series created by the British gaming company Core Design. Over the years, the franchise has evolved under different ownership, initially under Eidos Interactive and later under Square Enix Europe after its acquisition of Eidos in 2009. Central to the franchise is the fictional British archaeologist Lara Croft, who embarks on thrilling adventures around the globe in search of lost artifacts, all while navigating dangerous tombs and ancient ruins.

Gameplay in Tomb Raider emphasizes exploration, puzzle-solving, and survival in hostile environments filled with traps and adversaries. Players are often challenged to think critically as they unravel the mysteries of each tomb, making for a dynamic gaming experience. Beyond video games, the franchise has expanded into other media, including film adaptations, comics, and novels, further broadening its appeal.

Video : TOMB RAIDER 2 Teaser (2024) With Alicia Vikander & Alexandre Willaume

The journey of Tomb Raider began in 1994 when the development of the original game commenced. Released two years later, it achieved both critical and commercial success, leading Core Design to produce a new game annually for the next four years. However, this rapid pace put immense strain on the development team. The sixth installment, The Angel of Darkness, encountered significant challenges during production and was deemed a failure upon its release. This setback prompted Eidos to transfer development responsibilities to Crystal Dynamics, which has since become the primary developer for the series. Other developers have contributed to spin-offs and ports of the mainline titles, enriching the franchise’s legacy.

As of 2021, Tomb Raider games have sold over 85 million copies worldwide, solidifying their status in the gaming industry. The series has received widespread critical acclaim and is recognized as a pioneer of the action-adventure genre. Lara Croft herself has emerged as one of the most recognizable video game protagonists, earning numerous accolades and a place on the Walk of Game, as well as Guinness World Records. While she has been celebrated for advancing the portrayal of female characters in video games, Lara Croft has also sparked controversy due to the sexual appeal used in her marketing, illustrating the complex nature of her character and the franchise’s impact on gaming culture.

With the upcoming release of Tomb Raider 2 in 2024, fans are eager to see how this beloved franchise continues to evolve and captivate new generations of players. As Lara Croft embarks on her next adventure, the world awaits to discover the treasures and challenges that lie ahead.