Tomb Raider Legacy of Atlantis Will Feature Completely Rebuilt Combat and Exploration, Confirms Game Director
One of the standout announcements at The Game Awards 2025 was the unveiling of Tomb Raider Legacy of Atlantis, a full remake of the original Tomb Raider that first launched in 1996. While fans already knew Crystal Dynamics was working on a new Lara Croft adventure, few expected the studio to revisit the franchise’s origins in such an ambitious way. Rather than a simple visual update, Legacy of Atlantis is positioned as a full reimagining that bridges classic design with modern gameplay expectations.
Set to launch in 2026 to coincide with the franchise’s 30th anniversary, Tomb Raider Legacy of Atlantis gives Crystal Dynamics additional runway to release the next mainline entry in 2027. The project is being co developed with Flying Wild Hog, the Polish studio known for Hard Reset, Shadow Warrior, Trek to Yomi, and Evil West, bringing additional action focused expertise to the remake.
Following the announcement, Italian outlet Multiplayer interviewed Crystal Dynamics Game Director Will Kerslake and Studio Head Scot Amos, shedding new light on how the remake is being approached.
According to Scot Amos, the guiding principle behind Legacy of Atlantis is respect for the original while acknowledging how much player expectations have evolved. The team aims to honor the DNA established by Core Design, but reinterpret it through the lens of a modern audience.
Will Kerslake expanded on this philosophy by explaining that while the emotional core of the original experience remains the target, the mechanical foundation could not simply be carried forward unchanged. The realities of game design in 1996 and 2026 are fundamentally different. As a result, Crystal Dynamics has completely rebuilt both the combat and exploration systems from the ground up. The goal is to evoke the same sense of mystery, danger, and discovery players felt decades ago, while ensuring the moment to moment gameplay feels contemporary and fluid.
Despite these extensive changes, Legacy of Atlantis is not abandoning its roots. Kerslake confirmed that many of the original puzzles remain intact, and iconic elements such as the brutal environmental traps have been preserved. Deadly rolling boulders and other unforgiving hazards are still very much part of the experience, reinforcing the high stakes exploration that defined early Tomb Raider.
The interview also clarified how Legacy of Atlantis fits into the broader future of the franchise. Crystal Dynamics confirmed that the Lara Croft seen in Legacy of Atlantis and the upcoming Tomb Raider Catalyst is the same character, depicted at different stages of her life. Legacy of Atlantis revisits Lara’s origins, while Catalyst will portray her at the height of her abilities. As previously rumored, Tomb Raider Catalyst will be set in India, offering a contrast in tone and scale compared to the origin focused remake.
Continuity extends to voice acting as well. In both titles, Lara Croft will be voiced by British actress Alix Wilton Regan. Her extensive credits include Samantha Traynor in Mass Effect 3, the female Inquisitor in Dragon Age Inquisition and Veilguard, Aya in Assassin’s Creed Origins, Alt Cunningham in Cyberpunk 2077, and the female player character in the upcoming Squadron 42. Her continued involvement signals Crystal Dynamics’ intent to maintain a consistent portrayal of Lara across the next era of Tomb Raider.
With its promise of rebuilt systems, preserved legacy elements, and a clear long term vision for Lara Croft, Tomb Raider Legacy of Atlantis is shaping up to be far more than a nostalgic exercise. It represents a strategic reset for the franchise that aims to reconnect with longtime fans while welcoming a new generation of players.
Do you prefer Tomb Raider remakes that stay extremely close to the original mechanics, or do you welcome full rebuilds if they preserve the spirit of the classic experience?
