Tomb Raider: Development Progressing Despite Embracer Layoffs, Says Amazon Games Head

The next chapter in the iconic Tomb Raider franchise is moving forward, according to Christoph Hartmann, head of Amazon Games. Despite the recent layoffs and financial turmoil at Embracer Group, the parent company of Crystal Dynamics, Hartmann assures that the studio developing the new Lara Croft adventure is "fairly sheltered" from the wider industry woes.

Speaking with IGN, Hartmann dismissed concerns about the impact of Embracer's troubles on the Tomb Raider project. He emphasised that Crystal Dynamics has not experienced any significant changes in resources or management, despite letting go of a small number of employees last September. "People obviously look at what the parent company is doing, but it never impacted on resources, never led to any changes on management for them, so they're fine," he said.

While remaining tight-lipped on specifics, Hartmann confirmed that development is progressing well. "Doing a new Tomb Raider, the bar is so high. The longer you go, the expectation goes higher, so it's a huge task, but things are progressing. I mean, there's some really great ideas here," he shared.

The new Tomb Raider was first announced in 2021 by Crystal Dynamics, with Amazon Games taking on publishing duties from Embracer a few months later. Despite the passing of over two years, neither Amazon nor Crystal Dynamics have released any official teasers or details about the upcoming game.

This news comes amidst the continued wave of layoffs sweeping the gaming industry. Embracer Group has been particularly affected, with multiple studios undergoing staff reductions. However, Hartmann's statement suggests that Crystal Dynamics is relatively unaffected by these developments, allowing them to focus on delivering a high-quality experience for Tomb Raider fans.

While the wait for concrete details on the new Tomb Raider continues, fans can find solace in the reassurance that development is progressing steadily. With a strong team at Crystal Dynamics and the backing of Amazon Games, the future of Lara Croft appears to be in safe hands.