It is finally happening. After years of rumors and leaks, Crystal Dynamics has officially unveiled Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis at The Game Awards 2025. This isn’t just another remaster; it is a full-blown, ground-up remake of Lara Croft’s debut adventure, powered by the cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5. If you thought the T-Rex encounter was terrifying in 1996, wait until you see it in 4K.
Developed in partnership with Flying Wild Hog and published by Amazon Games, Legacy of Atlantis promises to honor the spirit of the original while modernizing the gameplay for a new generation. We are talking about jaw-dropping visuals, expanded storytelling, and a Lara who looks tougher than ever.
Back to the Beginning
For those who missed the 90s, this is the story that started it all. Lara is hired by the mysterious Jacqueline Natla to recover the Scion, an ancient Atlantean artifact. The journey takes her from the snowy caves of Peru to the cisterns of Greece, the sandy tombs of Egypt, and finally, the lost city of Atlantis itself.
The announcement trailer showed off some incredibly faithful yet evolved locations. The Lost Valley looks lush and dangerous, teeming with prehistoric life. The level design seems to retain that sense of isolation and intricate puzzle-solving that defined the classic era, moving away from the heavy combat focus of the recent survivor trilogy.
Modernizing a Classic
One of the biggest questions fans had was about the controls. Tank controls are gone, replaced by a fluid, modern movement system that allows Lara to navigate treacherous landscapes with grace. The trailer showcased her signature dual pistols (yes, they are back!) and a new grappling hook mechanic that seems to add a vertical layer to exploration.
Crystal Dynamics also hinted at “expanded storytelling,” suggesting that while the core beat-for-beat plot remains, we might get more context on Lara’s background and the history of the Scion. It’s a delicate balance, but everything we have seen so far suggests they are nailing it.
A Double Dose of Lara
As if one game wasn’t enough, they also teased Tomb Raider: Catalyst, a brand-new mainline entry coming in 2027. Set years after the events of Underworld, it features a seasoned Lara dealing with a “mythical cataclysm” in Northern India. It seems Amazon and Crystal Dynamics are going all-in on the franchise, giving us both a nostalgic trip and a bold new future.
Conclusion
With a 2026 release window, we have plenty of time to replay the originals and get hyped. Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis looks like the love letter fans have been waiting for—a perfect blend of nostalgia and next-gen tech. Whether you are a veteran raider or a newcomer, it’s time to dust off your climbing axes. Lara is back.
FAQs
When is Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis coming out?
The game is scheduled for release in 2026.
What platforms will it be on?
It will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (via Steam).
Is this a remaster or a remake?
It is a full remake built from the ground up in Unreal Engine 5, featuring new assets, gameplay mechanics, and voice acting.
Who is developing the game?
It is being developed by Crystal Dynamics in partnership with Flying Wild Hog (best known for the Shadow Warrior series).
Is it connected to the new 2027 game?
While they are separate projects, Legacy of Atlantis serves to reintroduce the classic “Prime” Lara before her new adventure continues in Tomb Raider: Catalyst in 2027.