During a low‑key showcase at Gamescom last week, developers gave players a glimpse of Tomb Ranger: Legacy of Atlantis and made it clear that this title is far more than a straightforward remaster of the 1996 classic. Instead, it represents a thorough re‑imagining of Lara Croft’s inaugural adventure. The responsibility for bringing this vision to life has been handed over to the Polish studio Flying Wild Hog, which has injected fresh ideas into the established Tomb Ranger formula. For example, the familiar first‑aid kits have been replaced with a crafting system that lets Lara mix health‑restoring tinctures and nutrient‑rich meals from ingredients she gathers throughout the world.
Additionally, a brand‑new skill tree has been introduced; the demo highlighted how players can spend skill points to extend the range of Lara’s signature dual pistols, adding a layer of strategic depth that was absent from the original. Following the demo, a round‑table Q&A featured Raul Siqueira, game director at Crystal Dynamics, and Arek Tomaszewski, art director at Flying Wild Hog. The two discussed how the partnership between an internal studio and an external developer was structured, how they coordinate with their publishing partner Amazon, and why fans will not see the return of the infamous tank‑control scheme when Legacy of Atlantis launches on February 12. Both Crystal Dynamics, based in California, and Flying Wild Hog, located in Poland, are working side‑by‑side under a single internal banner known as “Team Atlantis.” Siqueira explained that the team deliberately broke down the invisible barriers that often separate studios during joint projects.
“From the first conversations it was obvious that we shared the same philosophy on game development,” he said. “We were transparent about our needs and our approach, and the collaboration felt completely natural.” He added, “Crystal brings a deep legacy of Tomb Ranger titles, but sometimes you need an outside perspective. Bringing in a fresh set of eyes can spark ideas that make the final product truly unique. That collaborative spirit has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this undertaking.” Flying Wild Hog isn’t the only external relationship influencing Legacy of Atlantis.
Amazon, a tech and retail powerhouse, is publishing both this game and the upcoming Tomb Ranger: Catalyst, and is also producing a television adaptation starring Sophie Turner. Siqueira noted that Crystal Dynamics works "pretty closely" with Amazon across all fronts.
“We share a commitment to the franchise and to Lara herself that extends beyond the walls of any single studio,” he said. “Our internal franchise team, composed of veterans who have spent over two decades on Tomb Ranger, collaborates on every project.
The synergy is strong, though I’m careful not to reveal too much—otherwise I might get tackled from the audience!” When the development team first revisited the 1996 original and the 2007 remake, Tomb Ranger: Anniversary, they discovered how memory can distort perception. “We all have a mental picture of what the game looked like,” Siqueira explained. “When we actually played it, we realized there were differences. That helped us pinpoint the essential moments and locations that must stay true, while also identifying where we could safely experiment and add new color.” Team Atlantis has therefore introduced features like crafting, weapon upgrades, and a more nuanced skill system.
However, one hallmark of the original—its tank‑control scheme—has been intentionally omitted. “The control layout has been modernized for today’s audience,” Siqueira said.
“The original version is still available as Tomb Ranger 1 Remastered for those who want to experience the classic feel. Personally, I’ve tried the tank controls many times; they’re challenging, and I respect anyone who enjoys that difficulty.” Tomaszewski echoed this sentiment, recalling his own reaction when he revisited the game after two decades. “I remembered it being awesome, but playing it now felt like, ‘What is happening?’ The controls are simply too cumbersome for modern expectations.” Legacy of Atlantis was announced alongside Tomb Ranger: Catalyst, a sequel set years after the events of 2008’s Tomb Ranger: Underworld.
When asked about the relationship between the two titles, Siqueira confirmed that there is “definite collaboration” but emphasized that each project remains distinct. “Legacy of Atlantis is its own self‑contained experience, and we’re committed to honoring the original game’s spirit. At the same time, we respect the narrative arc of Lara’s journey across all entries—from the Survivor era (Tomb Ranger 2013, Rise of the Tomb Ranger, Shadow of the Tomb Ranger) to future installments.
The Lara you see in Atlantis is the same Lara who will appear in our upcoming projects.” In summary, the partnership between Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog illustrates how external development can breathe new life into a beloved classic, delivering fresh mechanics while preserving core identity. The decision to drop tank controls reflects a broader industry trend toward accessibility, yet the original version remains accessible for purists. With Amazon’s backing and a coordinated franchise strategy, Legacy of Atlantis aims to satisfy longtime fans and attract newcomers alike when it arrives in February.
Disclosure: Alex Forbes‑Calvin previously collaborated with Crystal Dynamics on the book *Chronicles of the Tomb Ranger*.