CELEB
Amazon Doubles Down on Gaming With Classic British IP
Amazon is making a major push into the video game space, and its latest target is one of the most iconic adventurers in gaming history: Lara Croft. Fresh off the launch of its James Bond title "007 First Light," the tech giant is now setting its sights on the Tomb Raider franchise with not one but two new games, plus a live-action television adaptation in development.
The strategy appears clear: Amazon wants to compete with the big players in gaming by building a portfolio of beloved franchises. "First Light" proved the company could handle a high-profile spy thriller, and now it's tackling an action-adventure legend. The dual-game approach suggests Amazon is thinking long-term about this IP, creating multiple entry points for players and building out a complete universe.
First Up: A Trip Back to 1996
The opening salvo in Amazon's Tomb Raider revival is "Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis," a remake of the groundbreaking original 1996 game that launched Croft to stardom. This title is set to arrive in February 2027, giving fans a chance to experience. or revisit. the game that started it all with modern graphics and gameplay improvements.
Amazon Games and developer Crystal Dynamics recently showcased "Atlantis" at Summer Game Fest, giving press an early look at what's in store. While the demo turned heads, details about the full experience remain somewhat under wraps. What we do know is that Amazon is treating the source material with respect, not reinventing the wheel but rather modernizing a classic for a new generation of players.
The Real Adventure: What's Coming in 'Catalyst'?
If "Legacy of Atlantis" is the appetizer, then "Tomb Raider: Catalyst" is clearly the main course. Slated to launch later in 2027, this new title represents the flagship launch for Amazon's Tomb Raider era. However, specifics about the game remain frustratingly scarce. Beyond a brief initial plot description, the company has kept details tightly under wraps.
This scarcity of information has only heightened anticipation. The Tomb Raider fanbase is notoriously passionate, and the lack of concrete details has sparked speculation about what "Catalyst" might bring to the table. Will it continue the story from "Legacy of Atlantis"? Will it introduce entirely new mechanics? These questions remain unanswered, but the mystery is clearly part of Amazon's strategy to build buzz.
The Bigger Picture: TV Ambitions and the Sophie Turner Connection
Beyond the games, Amazon is clearly thinking bigger with its Tomb Raider plans. A live-action television series has been in development, with Sophie Turner attached to star. While the article focuses primarily on the gaming side, this TV component signals that Amazon views Tomb Raider as a multimedia franchise opportunity.
The combination of games and a television show mirrors strategies we've seen from other major franchises, creating an interconnected universe that can engage audiences across different platforms. For Amazon, which has found success with gaming through "New World" and its Bond partnership, Tomb Raider represents another chance to establish itself as a serious player in the entertainment space.
