Tomb Raider: A Legendary Adventure Franchise
Lara Croft's globe-trotting tomb explorations have cemented her status as one of gaming's most iconic protagonists. With each dangerous expedition, she overcomes incredible challenges to uncover long-lost relics and secrets.
Crystal Dynamics is currently developing a new Tomb Raider title, promising fresh adventures for the intrepid archaeologist. To help fans prepare for Lara's next chapter, we've compiled a comprehensive timeline of every Tomb Raider game - perfect for newcomers and veterans alike.
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- Playing in chronological order
- Playing by release date
The Complete Tomb Raider Series
As of 2025, there are 20 main Tomb Raider titles spanning three distinct timelines. While 14 games were released for home consoles, 6 also supported handheld systems, and another 6 were mobile releases. Certain spin-off titles aren't included in this core timeline.
Where to Begin in 2025?
New players should start with 2013's Tomb Raider reboot - the first entry in the acclaimed "Survivor Trilogy" that establishes Lara's modern origin story through to 2018's Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
Complete Timeline Breakdown
The Tomb Raider saga divides neatly into three parallel timelines, each offering unique interpretations of Lara's adventures:
1. Original Series Timeline (1996-2003)
Starting with the groundbreaking 1996 original, this seven-game saga established Lara's core mythology through classic platforming adventures across global locations.
2. Legend Trilogy Timeline (2006-2008)
This rebooted universe reimagined Lara's origin through three technologically advanced entries featuring more cinematic storytelling.
3. Survivor Trilogy Timeline (2013-2018)
The most recent and gritty interpretation shows Lara's transformation from inexperienced explorer to hardened survivor across three critically acclaimed titles.
Upcoming Tomb Raider Projects
Fans can enjoy remastered versions of the original PlayStation-era games, with the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered collection released in early 2024 and Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered following in February 2025.
Crystal Dynamics is developing a brand new Tomb Raider using Unreal Engine 5, to be published by Amazon Games. Official statements suggest this will continue Lara's story from the Survivor Trilogy conclusion.
The Tomb Raider universe continues expanding beyond games with Netflix's animated series "Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft," which debuted in October and has been renewed for a second season.
