Lara Croft from "Tomb Raider" and Duke Nukem joined the new "World of Tanks" crossover as the newest characters. The limited-time event was announced on July 7, and it brings in two exclusive Battle Pass chapters, both dedicated to each of the distinct personality traits of the chosen characters.
While this is a great collaboration, fans believe that it did not really give justice to the female protagonist, with others suggesting that she should have her own standalone game after many years of promise.
Lara Croft Returns, But Not in Her Own Game
While some fans are looking forward to a revamped take on Lara Croft, initially hinted at in her "Call of Duty" cameo in 2023 and reprised by longtime voice actress Keeley Hawes, others are left frustrated. Lara has been popping up with regular cameos in a sprawling list of crossovers that includes "Hero Wars," "Fall Guys," and "Call of Duty," according to NME.
But beneath these guises, there has not been a new mainline "Tomb Raider" title since 2018's "Shadow of the Tomb Raider."
Lara Croft Fans Are Not Happy About 'World of Tanks' Crossover
A lot of fans expressed their frustration on social media and online forums. While they welcome the new look and retro charm, some are experiencing cross-promotional fatigue.
One fan found the crossover "ridiculous" because Lara Croft should have her own game at the moment after taking part in numerous crossovers.
"A cookbook, a crappy Netflix series, countless disappointing cross-overs/cameos and spin-offs, and now A TANK. For goodness sake," another fan wrote.
A cookbook, a crappy Netflix series, countless disappointing cross-overs/cameos and spin-offs and now A TANK. For goodness sake. #TombRaider https://t.co/SIJyHlJf8S
— Dathan Smith (@DathanSmith1991) July 2, 2025
One fan even ranted that no new game announcement for Lara Croft has come, and it's just another day with a cross-promo.
The word on the street? Gamers are ready for Lara Croft to star in her own game again, not simply a cameo in other IPs.
New Tomb Raider Game Is Coming...Eventually
In December of 2022, Amazon Games announced that a new "Tomb Raider" game is in the works under Crystal Dynamics. The next game in the series is a single-player, story-centric experience that will emphasize exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, all hallmarks of the classic series.
While Amazon Games VP Christoph Hartmann said last year that the bar for the game is "so high" and "things are moving forward," no gameplay or release window has been revealed. It's been three years, but no teasers have been made so far.
