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Is there only one Tomb Raider?

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Is There Only One Tomb Raider? Unearthing the Legacy of Lara Croft

Absolutely not! There isn’t just one Tomb Raider. There is one Lara Croft, but her journey and the Tomb Raider universe are vast, spanning numerous games, films, and other media. To put it simply, the Tomb Raider franchise is a sprawling, multifaceted epic with a rich history and continuing evolution. So buckle up, because we’re about to delve deep into the world of Lara Croft!

A Legacy of Exploration: Beyond the Games

The Tomb Raider legacy extends far beyond a single game or a single character iteration. It’s a cultural phenomenon that has evolved across decades, encompassing different interpretations of Lara Croft and the core themes of exploration, adventure, and survival. We’re talking about 19 released games as of 2023, a number of movies, comics, novels, and animated series. Each offers a unique entry point into the adventurous life of Lara Croft, the intrepid archaeologist.

Different Eras, Different Lara

It’s important to note the different eras of Tomb Raider that have reshaped the franchise. The original games introduced us to a confident, almost superhuman Lara Croft, traversing ancient ruins with unmatched skill. The Legend Trilogy offered a more narrative-focused experience, delving into Lara’s backstory and motivations. The more recent Survivor Trilogy presented a grittier, more realistic Lara, facing immense challenges to become the iconic adventurer we know. Each of these versions is valid, each adding a layer to the complex tapestry of the Tomb Raider mythos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tomb Raider

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common questions surrounding the Tomb Raider franchise, addressing the details of its legacy and evolution.

1. How many Tomb Raider games are there in total?

As of 2023, there are a total of 19 Tomb Raider games that have been released. This includes main series titles, spin-offs, and mobile games. Keep in mind that this number may increase as new titles are developed and released.

2. In what order should I play the Tomb Raider games to understand the story?

There are a few ways to approach this:

  • Release Order: This is the most traditional approach, allowing you to experience the evolution of the gameplay and graphics over time.

  • Chronological Order (within each era):

    • Survivor Trilogy: Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015), Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018)

    • Original Series: Tomb Raider (1996), Tomb Raider II (1997), Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft (1998), Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999), Tomb Raider Chronicles (2000)

  • It’s important to note that the original series is connected, but not directly connected to the Legend trilogy or the recent Survivor trilogy. Each trilogy essentially reboots the story to some extent.

3. Are all the Tomb Raider games connected in terms of storyline?

Not all the games are directly connected. The original games form a cohesive storyline, but the Legend Trilogy and the Survivor Trilogy function as separate continuities with their own unique narratives.

4. Do I need to play the first Tomb Raider game to understand the later ones?

Not necessarily. While the games share the same core character and themes, each installment often works as a standalone adventure. The connections are usually subtle and don’t require prior knowledge to enjoy the current game. Each Tomb Raider game is it’s own standalone adventure that’s accessible to players of any level.

5. Was Lara Croft based on a real person?

Lara Croft isn’t based on one specific real person, but her design and personality were inspired by various sources. These include the Swedish singer-songwriter Neneh Cherry and the British comic book character Tank Girl. The goal was to create a strong and independent female character who challenged traditional video game stereotypes.

6. What is the latest Tomb Raider game that has been released?

The latest release in the main series is Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018).

7. Is the Tomb Raider story a trilogy, and if so, which games are included?

The Tomb Raider story has been presented in several trilogies:

  • The Legend Trilogy: Tomb Raider: Legend, Tomb Raider: Anniversary, Tomb Raider: Underworld.

  • The Survivor Trilogy: Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider, Shadow of the Tomb Raider.

8. Why wasn’t Angelina Jolie in the third Tomb Raider movie?

Angelina Jolie stated that she felt satisfied with her portrayal of Lara Croft in the first two films and didn’t feel the need to make a third installment.

9. What happened to Alicia Vikander’s Tomb Raider sequel?

The sequel was canceled because MGM didn’t give it the green light in time, resulting in the studio losing the rights to the franchise.

10. What was the controversy surrounding the Tomb Raider reboot (2013)?

The controversy stemmed from a promotional interview where the executive producer mentioned that Lara’s origin story included a rape attempt. This caused significant backlash, as many felt it was an unnecessary and exploitative addition to the character’s narrative.

11. Who currently owns the Tomb Raider franchise?

The Tomb Raider franchise is currently owned by CDE Entertainment. Formerly owned by Eidos Interactive, then by Square Enix Europe after Square Enix’s acquisition of Eidos in 2009 until Embracer Group purchased the intellectual property alongside Eidos in 2022.

12. Where can I play the original Tomb Raider game?

The original Tomb Raider (1996) is available on various platforms, including Steam.

13. Will there be another Tomb Raider game in the future?

Yes, Crystal Dynamics is currently working on a new Tomb Raider game. It is expected to be released around Winter 2024/Spring 2025.

14. Is Lara Croft extremely wealthy?

Yes, Lara Croft is depicted as being incredibly wealthy. She was born into an aristocratic family and inherited a massive fortune, estimated to be around $1.3 billion.

15. What is Lara Croft’s occupation?

Lara Croft is a highly intelligent and athletic British archaeologist. She travels the world, exploring ancient tombs and hazardous ruins in search of artifacts and historical knowledge.

The Enduring Appeal of Lara Croft

The enduring appeal of Tomb Raider lies in Lara Croft’s multifaceted character and the exciting environments she explores. She’s not just a treasure hunter; she’s a complex individual driven by curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, and a desire to uncover the secrets of the past. The blend of action, puzzle-solving, and historical exploration creates a compelling experience that has captivated gamers for decades. You can also find useful resources on how games can be used as educational tools on the Games Learning Society website, GamesLearningSociety.org.

In conclusion, there isn’t just one Tomb Raider. There’s a vast and rich universe filled with adventure, mystery, and a constantly evolving legacy. Whether you prefer the classic games, the more recent reboots, or the film adaptations, there’s a version of Tomb Raider out there for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your gear, prepare for adventure, and dive into the world of Lara Croft!

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