The Netflix animated series, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, serves as an exciting companion while fans eagerly anticipate the next installment in the acclaimed Tomb Raider video game franchise. Since its inception in 1996, Tomb Raider has been revered as one of the most successful series in gaming history. This adventure follows Lara Croft, a skilled archaeologist, on her quest for ancient artifacts, often battling foes and mythical creatures that threaten her pursuit.
The popularity of the Tomb Raider games has led to multiple adaptations including films, mobile games, and a forthcoming Amazon TV series. In 2024, Netflix introduced The Legend of Lara Croft, featuring actors Hayley Atwell and Earl Baylon, who bring to life characters from the beloved video games. While the release date for the next Tomb Raider game remains unconfirmed, tuning into Netflix’s animated series is a perfect way to stay engaged with the franchise.
A Sequel to Shadow of the Tomb Raider
Shadow of the Tomb Raider: A Turning Point in the Series
In Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, Lara embarks on a new adventure as she tries to reconcile with her past while hosting an auction for her family’s belongings. During her speech, villain Charles Deveraux—voiced by Richard Armitage—steals a mysterious artifact that threatens global destruction upon being opened. Determined to recover the artifact with the aid of her friends and her father’s journal, Lara sets off on a perilous chase after Deveraux.
This series fits neatly within the Tomb Raider continuum, set about three years post the events of the 2018 game Shadow of the Tomb Raider. It explores Lara’s struggles as she copes with the loss of her trusted ally, Conrad Roth, and introduces various supporting characters from the Survivor trilogy, shedding light on their journeys after the game’s conclusion.
Comparing Netflix’s Tomb Raider to Previous Films
Mixed Reception for Previous Tomb Raider Movies
Upon release, Netflix’s animated Tomb Raider series garnered widespread acclaim, particularly for its portrayal of Lara’s character evolution, high-quality animation by Powerhouse, and impressive voice performances. While some critiques noted a predictable plot, many fans hailed The Legend of Lara Croft as a compelling continuation of Lara’s narrative, surpassing previous movie adaptations.
The franchise has seen three film adaptations from 2001 to 2018, featuring Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander in the lead role. While both actresses received praise for their performances, the films were often critiqued for subpar storylines and missed opportunities to faithfully capture the essence of the gaming universe. Despite not being a cinematic masterpiece, The Legend of Lara Croft stands out as the superior adaptation compared to its predecessors.
Reviving Interest in the Survivor Trilogy
The Survivor Trilogy: A Benchmark in Gaming
In 2013, Crystal Dynamics and Square Enix unveiled a rebooted series known as the Survivor trilogy. This collection began with the titular Tomb Raider, redefining Lara Croft’s origins as an inexperienced yet determined explorer who must rescue her friends from a shipwreck on Yamatai Island. The trilogy delves into her encounters with the military organization Trinity while confronting her personal demons. Celebrated for its storytelling, gameplay, and atmospheric environments, the Survivor trilogy is often hailed as one of the best reboots in video game history.
The animated series captures the adventurous spirit of the franchise, featuring thrilling action sequences that evoke the gaming experience for viewers. The Legend of Lara Croft incorporates essential elements that reignite enthusiasm for the Survivor trilogy, as it beautifully continues Lara’s character growth stemming from those games. As a testament to its success, a second season has been confirmed, making it a must-watch while waiting for the next game installment.