Crystal Dynamics has officially pulled back the curtain on the future of the Tomb Raider franchise, announcing not one but two brand-new entries during The Game Awards 2025. The studio revealed Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, slated for release in 2026, followed by Tomb Raider: Catalyst, planned for 2027. The dual announcement signals a bold, long-term vision for one of gaming’s most iconic action-adventure series and confirms that Lara Croft’s next era is already well underway.
Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis will arrive first and appears to lean heavily into the franchise’s mythological roots. Set around the long-rumored lost civilization of Atlantis, the game promises ancient mysteries, sprawling ruins, and environmental puzzles on a scale larger than anything seen in previous entries. Crystal Dynamics described the project as a globe-spanning adventure that blends classic tomb exploration with modern cinematic storytelling. Early teases suggest underwater traversal, ancient technology, and a narrative that explores how myths shape history—fitting themes for a series built on uncovering forgotten worlds.
The studio emphasized that Legacy of Atlantis is designed to be welcoming to longtime fans while also serving as an accessible entry point for new players. Gameplay will reportedly build on the survival-action foundations established in the reboot trilogy, while reintroducing a stronger focus on puzzle-solving, platforming, and intricate tomb design. Lara Croft herself is said to be portrayed as a more confident and seasoned explorer, reflecting her evolution across previous games.
Looking further ahead, Tomb Raider: Catalyst is positioned as a more experimental follow-up arriving in 2027. While Crystal Dynamics has shared fewer concrete details, the studio framed Catalyst as a turning point for the franchise. The game aims to push Lara Croft into uncharted territory—both narratively and mechanically—exploring the consequences of her discoveries and how they ripple across the world. Developers hinted at deeper character-driven storytelling and more dynamic gameplay systems, suggesting a shift toward greater player choice and reactivity.
Importantly, Crystal Dynamics confirmed that both titles are being developed with modern hardware in mind, leveraging next-generation technology to deliver expansive environments, advanced physics, and more immersive visuals. Although platforms were not fully detailed, the games are expected to target current and next-generation consoles alongside PC, ensuring broad reach and technical ambition.
The announcement of two consecutive Tomb Raider games also reflects renewed confidence in the franchise following its years of relative quiet. Rather than spacing releases far apart, Crystal Dynamics appears committed to maintaining momentum, building a connected narrative arc that unfolds over multiple titles.
For fans, the reveal was one of the standout moments of The Game Awards 2025. Lara Croft remains one of gaming’s most enduring characters, and the promise of two ambitious adventures suggests that her legacy is far from finished. With Legacy of Atlantis arriving in 2026 and Catalyst following in 2027, Tomb Raider is poised to reclaim a major spotlight in the action-adventure genre over the next several years.
