Lara Croft is on the brink of her most ambitious franchise overhaul in nearly three decades. With Crystal Dynamics, Amazon MGM Studios, and Flying Wild Hog joining forces, the iconic archaeologist is expanding across next-generation gaming engines, high-budget live-action television, and a unified canonical timeline.
If you've been trying to keep track of where the series is heading next, here is the complete, up-to-date breakdown of everything shaping the future of Tomb Raider.
1. Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis (2026/2027)
Co-developed by Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is a full Unreal Engine 5 reimagining of Lara's original 1996 debut. Far from a simple graphical facelift, this title reconstructs her iconic search for the Scion from the ground up for modern hardware.
Key Features & Gameplay Upgrades:
- Modern Traversal Mechanics: Features a wrist-mounted grappling hook for dynamic acrobatics, alongside an expanded climbing system.
- Archaeological Scanner: A real-time scanning tool that helps uncover hidden lore, decipher ancient inscriptions, and solve complex environmental puzzles.
- Focus Combat: Introduces precision combat maneuvers and cinematic dual-pistol action alongside a tactical "Focus" system.
- Unified Narrative: While revisiting her original classic mission, dialogue and easter eggs connect this adventure directly into her broader post-Survivor Trilogy life.
2. Tomb Raider: Catalyst (2027/2028)
Positioned as the largest and most ambitious Tomb Raider title ever created, Tomb Raider: Catalyst is an all-new mainline entry built on Unreal Engine 5.
Set across the dramatic landscapes of Northern India, Catalyst follows an experienced, veteran Lara Croft in the wake of a cataclysmic mythic event that exposes hidden ancient secrets. Players will race against rival treasure hunting factions and ancient guardian forces across massive open environments.
Voice Cast Update: Both upcoming games feature acclaimed voice actress Alix Wilton Regan (known for Cyberpunk 2077 and Dragon Age: Inquisition) bringing Lara Croft to life with fresh spirit and authority.
3. Amazon Prime Video Live-Action Series
Beyond the gaming sphere, Amazon MGM Studios is producing a flagship live-action television series for Prime Video.
- Sophie Turner as Lara Croft: Best known for her roles in Game of Thrones and X-Men, Sophie Turner leads the cast as the legendary adventurer.
- Phoebe Waller-Bridge at the Helm: The Emmy-winning creator of Fleabag serves as the primary writer, executive producer, and showrunner, promising sharp character writing paired with high-stakes globe-trotting action.
- Star-Studded Cast: Joining Turner are Sigourney Weaver, Jason Isaacs, Martin Bobb-Semple, Bill Paterson, and Celia Imrie.
4. Strategy: The Unified Tomb Raider Lore
Instead of rebooting the franchise every decade, Crystal Dynamics and Amazon are building a single connected universe. Moving forward, the classic 1990s adventures, the Survivor Trilogy origins, the upcoming Unreal Engine 5 games, and the Amazon television series all share one cohesive lore timeline.
| Project | Format | Lead Talent / Developer | Release Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legacy of Atlantis | UE5 Game Remake | Crystal Dynamics / Flying Wild Hog | 2026 / 2027 |
| Tomb Raider: Catalyst | AAA Open-World Game | Crystal Dynamics / Amazon Games | 2027 / 2028 |
| Amazon Live-Action Series | Prime Video TV Series | Sophie Turner / Phoebe Waller-Bridge | In Production |
What Are Your Thoughts on Lara Croft's Next Era?
Are you most excited to replay the classic Scion storyline in Unreal Engine 5, or are you looking forward to seeing Sophie Turner pick up the dual pistols on Prime Video?
Leave a comment below and share your predictions!