Tomb Raider, one of the most iconic video game franchises, has captivated players with its blend of archaeological adventure and thrilling storytelling. Since its debut in 1996, the series has followed the exploits of Lara Croft, a British archaeologist, as she explores treacherous ruins and uncovers ancient secrets. This article provides a detailed look at all the Tomb Raider games in order, highlighting the evolution of the series and its impact on gaming.

The Evolution of Tomb Raider Games

The Tomb Raider series has undergone significant changes since its inception, evolving from simple 3D action-adventure to a more narrative-driven, cinematic experience. The games have been developed across multiple gaming platforms, from the PlayStation era to the latest generation consoles and PC.

Tomb Raider Games in Chronological Order

1. Tomb Raider (1996)
   • The game that started it all, introducing players to Lara Croft and her globe-trotting adventures. It was groundbreaking for its 3D graphics and gameplay mechanics.
2. Tomb Raider II (1997)
   • Building on the success of the first game, Tomb Raider II introduced new weapons, vehicles, and a more expansive storyline.
3. Tomb Raider III: Adventures of Lara Croft (1998)
   • Known for its increased difficulty and refined graphics, this installment took Lara to more exotic locations like India, the South Pacific, and Antarctica.
4. Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (1999)
   • This game focused heavily on Egyptian mythology and was intended to conclude Lara’s story, featuring what was initially planned as her demise.
5. Tomb Raider Chronicles (2000)
   • After the events of The Last Revelation, this game features levels that are flashbacks to various adventures in Lara’s life.
6. Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness (2003)
   • A darker tone and more complex storyline, this game faced mixed reviews due to its clunky gameplay mechanics and was the last developed by Core Design.
7. Tomb Raider: Legend (2006)
   • Developed by Crystal Dynamics, this game rebooted the series with a new origin story for Lara, focusing on the disappearance of her mother.
8. Tomb Raider: Anniversary (2007)
   • A remake of the original Tomb Raider game, featuring updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.
9. Tomb Raider: Underworld (2008)
   • Continuing the story from Legend and Anniversary, this game explores Norse mythology and concludes the trilogy.
10. Tomb Raider (2013)
    • A second reboot of the franchise, this game presents a young, inexperienced Lara who must survive her first adventure after being stranded on a mysterious island.
11. Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015)
    • Sequel to the 2013 reboot, it follows Lara as she seeks the secret of immortality in Siberia, facing off against a paramilitary organization.
12. Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018)
    • The final installment in the reboot trilogy, Lara races to stop a Mayan apocalypse she has unwittingly unleashed.

Why Play the Tomb Raider Games in Order?

Playing the Tomb Raider games in order provides not only a deeper understanding of the development of video game technology but also offers an insight into the evolution of a female video game protagonist. Each game builds on its predecessor, offering more complex narratives and improved gameplay mechanics, enriching the player’s experience.

Conclusion

The Tomb Raider series has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, thanks to its compelling storytelling, innovative gameplay, and iconic protagonist. Playing through the games in order provides a window into the history of video games through the lens of one of its most famous characters. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, the Tomb Raider games offer a rich world of adventure worth exploring.