The Tomb Raider franchise is about to expand. The rogue-like mobile game Tomb Raider Reloaded is set to be released, players can clean the Croft mansion in the PowerWash Simulator DLC, and Amazon Studios is developing a Tomb Raider television series. Given that the franchise itself has been part of video game history for almost two decades, there are quite a few iterations of Lara Croft available to experience. From the darker take seen in Shadow of the Tomb Raider to the version of Lara Croft fighting apex predators in Tomb Raider: Anniversary, there is definitely the possibility of a Spider-Man-esque "Lara-verse" on the horizon.
In fact, there are some rumors that Amazon Studios is producing the Tomb Raider television series - helmed by Killing Eve creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge - as a gateway to a Tomb Raider content multiverse similar to Marvel's MCU. This could involve the sequel to the 2018 Tomb Raider film starring Alicia Vikander and a future video game that would star every iteration of Lara Croft seen in video games. A multiverse-themed Tomb Raider video game would be an excellent way for fans to play an epic adventure as their favorite version of Croft.
A Spider-Man-Inspired Tomb Raider Game Could Explore Dimension-Hopping and Time Travel
While a Tomb Raider installment featuring all the versions of Lara might seem like a stretch to some fans, there have been multiple in earlier games. For instance, Tomb Raider: Underworld is centered on Lara's evil clone that has been manufactured to eliminate her human weaknesses, including her connection with her assistant Alistair. Since the precedent for multiple Lara has already been set, it's not a stretch for a storyline to be created that involves crossing through the many iterations of the Croft family, legacy, and lore.
In fact, Tomb Raider's focus on ancient ruins and mysterious, impossible occurrences actually makes the franchise the perfect fit for a multiverse-inspired game. The game could begin with the latest iteration of Lara - rumored to be older in the upcoming Crystal Dynamics Tomb Raider game - discovering an ancient relic or phenomenon that allows people to travel across dimensions. Lara could be thrown into a myriad of different timelines - all corresponding to other Tomb Raider titles. The goal might then be to defeat an epic threat bigger than any one Tomb Raider villain, as seen in the major Marvel crossover events.
A Tomb Raider Multiverse Game Could Be A Gift To Fans
As many Tomb Raider fans know, the franchise - and Croft herself - has gone through many jarring changes, as different developers, publishers, and creators have spun their own take on Lara's story. This inconsistent set of games could be addressed in a clever and humorous way through a multiverse game, as different versions of Lara come together to fight, explore, and discover. For example, it would be awesome to see Shadow of the Tomb Raider's Lara help Tomb Raider: Anniversary Lara fight the infamous T. Rex. Another awesome pairing would be seeing Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness Lara fight her evil doppelganger with the help of the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot Lara.
A multiverse Tomb Raider game would bring a different and unexpected comical tone to Lara Croft and be an excellent gift to fans. Many Tomb Raider fans have endured so many changes, delays, and games that it requires them to relearn the franchise all over again. Allowing players to step into the shoes of their favorite Croft - or fight alongside them - would be a fantastic way to honor the franchise's legacy while introducing a unique story. The game could also be a cheeky throwback to iconic elements of the franchise, including the blocky controls in the 1996 Tomb Raider, the many names and faces of her parents, and more.