How Much Did Microsoft Pay for Tomb Raider?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Microsoft did not purchase the Tomb Raider IP. However, in 2016, Microsoft paid $100 million for a timed exclusivity deal for the game Rise of the Tomb Raider. This deal meant the game would be released first on Xbox consoles and Windows PC, delaying its availability on other platforms like PlayStation for a specific period. It’s crucial to understand this wasn’t an acquisition of the franchise itself, but rather a temporary exclusivity agreement.
The Complex History of Tomb Raider Ownership
The ownership of the Tomb Raider franchise has been quite the rollercoaster. Initially owned by Eidos Interactive, the rights transitioned to Square Enix Europe following Square Enix’s acquisition of Eidos in 2009. This is an important detail because it’s often confused with the exclusivity deal Microsoft secured for Rise of the Tomb Raider.
In May 2022, the gaming world witnessed another significant shift when Embracer Group purchased the intellectual property (IP) of Tomb Raider, along with other assets, from Square Enix for $300 million. This deal included over 50 IPs across three studios, notably Crystal Dynamics, the studio behind the recent Tomb Raider games.
Currently, the Tomb Raider IP is owned by CDE Entertainment after Embracer group sold the IP to Amazon for a reported $600 Million, marking a substantial change in the franchise’s trajectory.
The Impact of the Microsoft Exclusivity Deal
The $100 million investment from Microsoft for the Rise of the Tomb Raider exclusivity was a strategic move in the console wars. Securing a popular title like Tomb Raider as an exclusive aimed to attract players to the Xbox ecosystem. While the deal undoubtedly boosted Microsoft’s image at the time, it did not translate into ownership of the franchise itself.
It is important to note that this exclusivity deal was a temporary arrangement. It allowed Microsoft to capitalize on the popularity of Tomb Raider for a specific window, but didn’t grant them any long-term control over the IP.
Amazon’s Acquisition and the Future of Tomb Raider
The most recent development in the Tomb Raider saga is Amazon’s acquisition of the IP for a staggering $600 million. This move marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, as Amazon is now positioned to shape the future of Tomb Raider across various media, including games, movies, and TV series. The $600 million deal instantly doubled the investment of Embracer group in their previous acquisition of Tomb Raider and other IP for only $300 million.
This sale signals a shift from a primarily gaming-focused IP to one with potential across all of Amazon’s considerable platforms. The future holds exciting possibilities, with a new Tomb Raider game in development by Crystal Dynamics utilizing Unreal Engine 5, said to be the most expansive one yet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tomb Raider
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the complex history of ownership and various financial dealings surrounding the Tomb Raider franchise.
1. Who Currently Owns the Rights to Tomb Raider?
The current owner of the Tomb Raider IP is CDE Entertainment, a subsidiary of Amazon, after its purchase from Embracer group for $600 million.
2. Did Microsoft Ever Own Tomb Raider?
No, Microsoft has never owned the Tomb Raider IP. They paid $100 million for a timed exclusivity deal for Rise of the Tomb Raider in 2016.
3. How Much Did Embracer Group Pay for Tomb Raider?
Embracer Group acquired the Tomb Raider IP along with 50 other IP’s from Square Enix in a deal valued at $300 million in May 2022.
4. What is Crystal Dynamics’ Role in Tomb Raider?
Crystal Dynamics is the primary studio developing the Tomb Raider games. They were included in the sale to Embracer Group and are currently working on a new Tomb Raider title using Unreal Engine 5.
5. How Much is the Tomb Raider IP Worth?
The Tomb Raider IP was recently sold to Amazon for $600 million, indicating its substantial value in the entertainment market.
6. Was the 2018 Tomb Raider Movie a Success?
The 2018 Tomb Raider film grossed around $274.7 million worldwide, against a production budget between $90–106 million. While it made money, estimates suggest it needed to gross at least $275 million to truly break even.
7. Why Was There No Tomb Raider 2 (Movie)?
The planned Tomb Raider 2 was canceled due to creative differences, a bloated budget, and MGM’s rights expiring.
8. How Much Did the First Tomb Raider Game (1996) Make?
The original Tomb Raider game was a massive success, selling seven million units worldwide on the PlayStation. It also helped turn a company loss into a $14.5 million profit in a single year.
9. What Happened with Tomb Raider’s Original Publisher?
Eidos Interactive was the original publisher of the Tomb Raider games, but the company was acquired by Square Enix Europe in 2009.
10. What is the New Tomb Raider Game About?
The new Tomb Raider game, currently in development by Crystal Dynamics, is intended to be the “most expansive” one yet and will be utilizing the advanced capabilities of Unreal Engine 5.
11. Did Amazon Buy the Rights to Other IPs Along with Tomb Raider?
No, Amazon only purchased the Tomb Raider IP from Embracer Group, not the other 50+ properties.
12. How Much Did Shadow of the Tomb Raider Cost to Develop?
The development costs of Shadow of the Tomb Raider were estimated to be between $75 and $100 million, with an additional $35 million budget for marketing and promotion.
13. Was the First Angelina Jolie Tomb Raider Movie a Flop?
No, the 2001 Tomb Raider movie was a box office success. It debuted at number one in the box office and grossed over $274 million worldwide.
14. How is Lara Croft So Wealthy?
Lara Croft, the main character in the franchise, was born into a wealthy family and inherited a large fortune, estimated at $1.3 billion. Her archaeological endeavors have only increased her wealth.
15. Which Tomb Raider Game is a Remake of the Original?
Tomb Raider: Anniversary released in 2007 is a remake of the original Tomb Raider game released in 1996.
Final Thoughts
The journey of the Tomb Raider IP is marked by numerous ownership changes and significant financial transactions. Microsoft’s $100 million exclusivity deal was a strategic maneuver that boosted its Xbox platform at the time, but the acquisition of the franchise by Amazon for $600 million is the latest major event in the series. This recent purchase marks a significant shift for the IP, paving the way for its expansion into diverse entertainment realms. By understanding these complex shifts, we gain a deeper appreciation for the business and creative dynamics shaping the future of Tomb Raider.