Is a New Tomb Raider TV Show Exciting, But Where's the Next Video Game?

The upcoming Tomb Raider TV show, featuring Sophie Turner as Lara Croft, has generated significant buzz, but the franchise itself appears to be in a precarious position. With no new video game release since 2018 and only remasters to sustain interest, fans are left wondering about the future of Tomb Raider. This article delves into the current state of the franchise, the implications of the TV adaptation, and what this may mean for future games.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Sophie Turner will star as Lara Croft in Amazon's new Tomb Raider TV show.
• The last video game release was Shadow of the Tomb Raider in 2018.
• There is little information about the next Tomb Raider game, first mentioned in 2021.
• The TV show may not correlate with the upcoming game, potentially creating a disjointed narrative.
• Crystal Dynamics faces challenges in game development, impacting the franchise's future.

The Current State of the Tomb Raider Franchise

The Tomb Raider franchise, which debuted in 1996, has been a cornerstone of the action-adventure video game genre. However, the last notable release was Shadow of the Tomb Raider, launched in 2018. Since then, the franchise has struggled to maintain momentum, largely relying on remasters and mobile titles. This stagnation raises questions about the viability of Tomb Raider as a leading gaming franchise.

Sophie Turner’s Casting: A Mixed Response

The announcement of Sophie Turner, known for her role in Game of Thrones, as Lara Croft has elicited a variety of reactions. While her star power may attract new viewers, some fans are disappointed, especially given the previous interest shown by Elizabeth Dulau, who expressed her desire to play the role. This reflects a broader concern that casting decisions may prioritise celebrity over character fidelity.

The Impact of Celebrity Casting on Video Game Adaptations

Celebrity casting can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it brings visibility and may attract fans of the actor. On the other, it risks alienating long-time fans who value authenticity and a deep connection to the character. The Tomb Raider franchise has a rich history and a dedicated fanbase; thus, the choice of Turner raises the stakes for how well the character is portrayed.

The Delay in Game Development

Despite the excitement surrounding the TV adaptation, the gaming side of Tomb Raider appears to be in limbo. The next game was first mentioned in 2021, coinciding with the franchise's 25th anniversary, yet tangible updates have been sparse. Early discussions suggested a shift towards an open-world setting and non-lethal combat, but no official confirmations have been made. This lack of clarity is concerning for fans eagerly anticipating a new adventure with Lara Croft.

Challenges Facing Crystal Dynamics

Crystal Dynamics, the studio behind the Tomb Raider games, has faced numerous challenges in recent years. In 2021, Microsoft enlisted the studio to assist in developing the Perfect Dark reboot, which reportedly resulted in them taking over the project. This has diverted resources and attention away from Tomb Raider, leading to speculation about the future of the franchise.

In 2022, Square Enix sold Crystal Dynamics to the Embracer Group. Since then, the studio has experienced layoffs and restructuring, further complicating the development of new games. Although Crystal Dynamics has stated that Tomb Raider's progress is 'unaffected by this decision', the impact on studio morale cannot be overlooked. A disheartened team may struggle to produce compelling content.

Hollywood’s Disconnect with Gaming

The relationship between Hollywood and gaming has often been fraught with challenges. Video game adaptations frequently lack synergy with their source material, leading to disjointed timelines and narratives. For instance, the recent Tomb Raider TV show may not tie into the upcoming game, a situation that feels familiar in other adaptations, such as Uncharted and Castlevania.

The Need for Synergy

Having a new game released alongside a movie or series seems like a logical strategy for maximising profits and engaging fans. However, this has rarely occurred. Nintendo's approach to the Super Mario franchise exemplifies this disconnect. Imagine if Nintendo announced a casting for a new Mario film while neglecting new game releases for several years—fans would likely be more confused than excited.

What Lies Ahead for Tomb Raider?

The future of the Tomb Raider franchise remains uncertain. With the TV show set to release, many fans are left wondering when, or if, a new game will materialise. The worry is that the show might overshadow the gaming aspect, which is the core of the franchise. If the TV adaptation succeeds, it could pave the way for renewed interest in the games, but that depends on the quality of the show and its reception.

The Role of Cross-Promotion

Amazon's involvement in both the TV show and the upcoming game suggests a potential for cross-promotion. Ideally, this would create a cohesive brand experience, allowing new viewers to easily transition into the gaming universe. However, if the two projects are not aligned, it may hinder growth for both the TV show and the game.

Conclusion: A Call for Clarity and Cohesion

As the Tomb Raider franchise navigates its uncertain waters, clarity and cohesion will be paramount. Fans deserve an engaging narrative that respects the legacy of Lara Croft while also looking forward to new adventures. With the TV show on the horizon, it’s crucial for Crystal Dynamics to communicate openly about the game development process to maintain trust and anticipation among its audience.

Will Amazon's Tomb Raider show succeed in revitalising the franchise, or will it further highlight the gaps in communication and development? Only time will tell, but fans are hoping for a world where both the games and the adaptations thrive together. #TombRaider #SophieTurner #GamingFranchise

FAQs

When will the new Tomb Raider TV show be released?

The release date for the new Tomb Raider TV show has not been officially announced, but it is expected to be in development for some time before it hits screens.

Will the new Tomb Raider game be released alongside the TV show?

Currently, there is no information suggesting that the new Tomb Raider game will coincide with the release of the TV show. The two projects appear to be developing independently.

What changes can fans expect in the Tomb Raider TV show?

While specific details about the show are limited, it is anticipated that it may take creative liberties with Lara Croft's character, potentially drawing from both the original games and the recent reboots.

Who is involved in the production of the new Tomb Raider game?

The upcoming Tomb Raider game is being developed by Crystal Dynamics and is co-produced by Amazon and the Embracer Group. However, updates on its development have been scarce.

How has Crystal Dynamics been affected by recent changes in ownership?

The sale of Crystal Dynamics to the Embracer Group has led to layoffs and restructuring, which may have impacted the development timeline for upcoming projects, including Tomb Raider.