Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Tomb Raider.
What is the Tomb Raider franchise?
Tomb Raider is a long-running action-adventure video game series centered on archaeologist Lara Croft exploring ancient tombs and solving puzzles. The games blend platforming, combat, and narrative storytelling across various historical and fictional settings.
Who is the main protagonist of Tomb Raider?
The central character is Lara Croft, a British archaeologist known for her intelligence, athletic prowess, and signature dual pistols. She has been portrayed by different voice actors and motion capture artists throughout the series' history.
Which game should new players start with?
Newcomers are often recommended to begin with 'Tomb Raider' (2013), which serves as a modern origin story reimagining Lara's first solo adventure. Alternatively, fans of classic gameplay may prefer the original 1996 title or the rebooted trilogy starting in 2013.
How many main games are in the series?
There have been over twenty core titles released across multiple generations of consoles and PC platforms since the first game launched in 1996. The series includes several reboots, sequels, spin-offs, and remakes depending on how they are categorized.
Who created Lara Croft?
Lara Croft was designed by Toby Gard while working at Core Design for the original 1996 game. She quickly became a global icon of gaming culture due to her distinctive design and personality.
What are the three main eras of Tomb Raider games?
The series is generally divided into the Classic era (1996–2003), the Legend/Underworld trilogy (2006–2008), and the Survivor Trilogy reboot (2013–2018). Each era features different graphical styles, gameplay mechanics, and narrative tones.
Is there a movie adaptation of Tomb Raider?
Yes, there have been multiple film adaptations featuring actors like Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft. These movies generally follow the game's themes but take significant creative liberties with the story.
What is the most famous location in the series?
Trinity Island from 'Tomb Raider' (2013) and the Lost City of Paititi are among the most iconic settings, though Atlantis remains a recurring mythological destination. Many games also feature real-world locations like Egypt, Peru, and Cambodia.
Does Lara Croft die in any game?
Lara faces numerous life-threatening situations and near-death experiences throughout the series, but she survives every main storyline to continue her adventures. Some alternate timelines or spin-offs may depict different outcomes for her character.
What makes Tomb Raider unique compared to other action games?
The franchise distinguishes itself by combining intricate environmental puzzles, historical mythology, and challenging platforming with third-person shooter mechanics. Its focus on exploration and narrative depth has influenced many subsequent adventure titles.