Tomb Raider Games: Chronological Play Order

How Many Tomb Raider Games Are There?

A comprehensive roster of Tomb Raider games encompasses 20 titles, spanning three distinct timelines. These iterations feature varied storylines and perspectives on Lara Croft and her supporting cast, offering distinct gameplay experiences. This article will outline each of these timelines.

Tomb Raider Games in Chronological Order

To embark on a chronological adventure through the Tomb Raider universe, you’ll encounter three distinct timelines: the Original Saga, the Legend of Tomb Raider, and the Survivor Trilogy. Each offers a unique storyline and gaming experience for the intrepid explorer.

First Timeline – Original Saga

This saga represents the earliest installments of the Tomb Raider series, characterized by a focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The gameplay style and narrative are distinct from the later iterations of the franchise.

1. Tomb Raider (1996)

Lara Croft’s initial adventure begins with a mission from businesswoman Jacqueline Natla. Lara’s quest for the Scion of Atlantis leads her to various locations and a thrilling confrontation with Natla on a volcanic island.

2. Tomb Raider: The Curse of the Sword (2001)

This Game Boy Color exclusive focuses on Lara’s pursuit of a mystical sword and her clash with the resurrected Madame Paveau. The gameplay, geared towards handheld devices, presents a distinct experience from the console iterations.

3. Tomb Raider II (1997)

The second installment of the Original Saga introduces Lara’s quest for the legendary Dagger of Xian. This quest involves uncovering secrets related to ancient Chinese Emperors and a cult leader obsessed with the dagger’s power.

4. Tomb Raider III (1998)

In Tomb Raider III, Lara Croft confronts Dr. Willard, who seeks to harness the power of ancient crystalline artifacts. Lara’s objective is to prevent global mutation and reclaim these artifacts.

5. Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999)

Lara explores ancient Egyptian tombs, releasing the chaos god Set. In this adventure, Lara seeks to summon Horus, the god of order, to restore balance to the world and battle the forces of chaos.

6. Tomb Raider: Chronicles (2000)

This title compiles various tales from Lara’s past adventures, told through flashbacks and recounts. From Rome to a submerged Russian submarine, Lara’s experiences are detailed through varied storytelling mechanisms.

7. Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness (2003)

Accused of her mentor’s murder, Lara investigates conspiracies in Paris and Prague. She faces a relentless adversary, the last survivor of the Lux Veritatis Society, and unravels a deep-seated mystery related to his true nature.

Second Timeline – Legend of Tomb Raider

This timeline presents a re-imagining of the original series, featuring updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.

1. Tomb Raider Anniversary (2007)

A remake of the first game, this edition introduces a refreshed perspective on the original adventure, incorporating updated physics-based puzzles and environment interaction.

2. Tomb Raider: Legend (2006)

Lara Croft’s origins are re-examined in this reboot, as she embarks on a global quest for the legendary sword Excalibur. She races against her former friend, Amanda Evert, to claim the artifact first.

3. Tomb Raider: Underworld (2008)

Lara delves into the realm of the dead in search of Mjolnir, a key to Helheim, the underworld. Confronting Natla and mythological underworlds, Lara’s quest for the artifact places her at the heart of a legendary conflict.

Third Timeline – Survivor Trilogy

This series presents a gritty, grounded depiction of Lara Croft, emphasizing her struggles and resilience.

1. Tomb Raider (2013)

A rebooted Lara must confront the Solarii Brotherhood on a hostile island as she searches for the lost kingdom of Yamatai. Lara faces perilous conditions and a dangerous ritual, while battling a shadowy cult.

2. Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015)

Lara’s Siberian expedition leads her to seek Kitezh, a legendary city. Confronting Trinity, a paramilitary organization, Lara’s quest for the lost city and the enigmatic Deathless Ones reveals a hidden conspiracy.

3. Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018)

Lara traverses the Americas in pursuit of Paititi, a city steeped in Mayan lore. Battling monstrous creatures and the relentless Trinity, Lara navigates a desperate race against a Mayan apocalypse.

How to Play ALL the Tomb Raider Games By Release Date

What’s Next for Tomb Raider?

Upcoming projects include a new Tomb Raider game utilizing Unreal Engine 5, slated to continue Lara Croft’s narrative, along with an animated series and a potential live-action adaptation.