Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis Adds RPG Elements
Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is reimagining the original game with RPG mechanics including skill trees, herb brewing, and a new focus meter.
The update
Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, the remake of the franchise’s original 1996 game, will introduce several RPG-like elements when it launches on February 12, 2027. The game, developed by Flying Wild Hog in collaboration with Crystal Dynamics, features a skill tree where players can redeem artifacts for skill points to unlock weapon upgrades and ability improvements. Players will also be able to collect and brew herbs for various buffs.
Why it matters
The addition of these systems marks a significant departure from the original game’s pure platforming focus and represents a continued evolution of the series toward RPG mechanics that began with the Survivor trilogy (2013 onwards). The new “Focus” meter will allow players to slow down time and perform acrobatic maneuvers, with game director Raul Siqueira noting it’s designed to “celebrate” Lara’s iconic agility in a modern way.
What to watch
How these new RPG elements will integrate with the original level design remains to be seen. The game’s delay to February 2027 suggests development is still refining these systems. Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the changes, with some hoping for a return to more traditional Tomb Raider gameplay after the Survivor trilogy’s RPG elements.
Sources
- ign.com — Details about skill trees, herb brewing, and focus meter mechanics
- eurogamer.net — Information about the development team and fan reactions to the new mechanics
