Hold up, Tomb Raider faithful! We've got news and it's a bit of a mixed bag. Lara Croft is making a comeback on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 with Tomb Raider Anniversary landing on the digital shelves October 21st. But here's the thing... it's not quite the triumphant return some were hoping for.
Been jonesing for some classic Lara action? You're in luck! But before you crank up the excitement to eleven, let's pump the brakes a little. It's looking like we're getting an emulated version of the PS2 classic, not the beefed-up PS3 edition. Why? Well, Sony's still wrestling with PS3 emulation on modern consoles. I mean, come on, Sony, get it together!
Could this be a stealth drop for PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers? Maybe! Tomb Raider: Legend got that treatment last year, so it's not out of the question. But as of right now? Zilch. Nada. Nothing confirmed.
For those new to the Croft-verse, Tomb Raider Anniversary is a 2007 remake of the OG Tomb Raider. It retells the same story, same levels, just with a 2007-era facelift to match the gameplay style of Tomb Raider: Legend. Think of it as a modern twist on a beloved classic. But is this enough?
Here's where the community is buzzing. The arrival of both Legend and Anniversary has sparked fears. Fears that Crystal Dynamics (and let's be honest, we're all looking at them) might be ditching plans for a proper Legend trilogy remaster. Y'know, the kind that gets the full HD treatment, new textures, all the bells and whistles?
Are we really getting emulated titles instead of a proper remaster? It feels like a slap in the face to fans who've been begging for this for years. - AngryTombRaiderFan92 on Reddit
Aspyr's already given us remastered versions of the first six Tomb Raider adventures (you know, the fixed versions, after that launch). So why not the Legend trilogy? What gives?
Some folks think these emulated releases are a stand-in for a full-blown remaster. Like, "Hey, here's something to tide you over." But is it really? Is it good enough? Let's not forget the Deus Ex situation. The Conspiracy showed up as an emulation, and BAM! Remaster announcement at Sony State of Play. So... hope isn't totally lost.
Now, the big question: what about Tomb Raider: Underworld? Will the final chapter of the Legend trilogy join the party on PS4 and PS5 down the line? Crystal Dynamics is staying tight-lipped. We'll be watching like a hawk, don't you worry.
But here's the real kicker. And this is where my tin-foil hat comes out. Is this some kind of testing ground? Are they gauging interest before greenlighting a bigger project? I mean, it makes sense, right? Look at the install numbers, see how many people buy it, and then make a decision.
The fact is, it could be a sign of things to come. We just don't know. All we know is that Tomb Raider Anniversary hits the PlayStation Store on October 21st, 2025. And that's something, at least. Maybe?
So, should you buy it? If you're itching for some old-school Lara on your modern console, then sure, why not? Just keep those expectations in check. It's a PS2 game, after all. But if you're holding out for a Legend trilogy remaster? Well, keep holding. And keep your fingers crossed. Maybe, just maybe, Crystal Dynamics is listening.
