Lara Croft, the iconic protagonist from the Tomb Raider franchise, is set to enter the world of World Of Tanks as part of a special collaboration that also features Duke Nukem. This partnership will introduce two unique battle passes that enable players to earn rewards inspired by both franchises. The announcement emphasizes player choice, allowing them to switch chapters and claim rewards at their own pace. The collaboration showcases a refreshed version of Lara Croft, who will be voiced by Keeley Hawes, a veteran of the franchise since 2006.
The collaboration is scheduled to launch on July 10 and will run until July 21, 2025. Despite the excitement from some corners, the announcement has generated discontent among many Tomb Raider fans, who express frustration over Lara’s frequent appearances in unrelated games and media, with no new mainline game since 2018’s “Shadow of the Tomb Raider.” Fans have taken to social media, voicing their disappointment with comments such as “Lara has appeared in every single game except her own at this point,” and the feeling that the character is being overexposed.
Interestingly, there is a new Tomb Raider game in development by Crystal Dynamics, announced at the end of 2022. This game aims to recapture the essence that has made the franchise such a beloved part of gaming. Enthusiasm remains high among some fans for this upcoming title, with assurances from Amazon Games about its progress, though expectations are also elevated due to the franchise’s legacy.
In addition, a live-action series that was intended to be made by Amazon, written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, has reportedly been canceled, leaving fans with mixed feelings about the franchise’s future direction.
While the ongoing crossovers may seem excessive to some, they do provide additional exposure and engagement with the character of Lara Croft, potentially reigniting interest in future mainline releases. This collaboration with World Of Tanks could also attract new players to the Tomb Raider universe, demonstrating the character’s enduring appeal.
The combination of past disappointments and future prospects presents a dichotomy for fans, as they navigate their hopes for the future of Lara Croft in gaming.