Previously unseen early Tomb Raider: Legend gameplay footage shows unseen areas and different visuals as the game turns 20 years old
Tomb Raider: Legend, Crystal Dynamics’ 2006 reboot of the iconic franchise, is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the release of previously unseen early development footage. The PS2-era game has shared never-before-seen gameplay from mid-development stages, revealing striking visual and level design differences from the final released version.
The early footage showcases design decisions that were ultimately altered during development, with fans noting that “so much was cut” from the original vision. These archival materials provide valuable insight into the iterative process behind one of gaming’s most pivotal action franchises, demonstrating how Crystal Dynamics successfully reinvented Lara Croft for a new generation.
The release of this development material comes as the Tomb Raider franchise prepares for significant expansion. Publisher Square Enix has announced Legacy of Atlantis, a full remake of the original 1996 Tomb Raider, arriving in 2026, followed by a new mainline entry titled Catalyst in 2027. These upcoming projects signal renewed commitment to the franchise through both classic reimaginings and new adventures.
The disclosure of early Tomb Raider: Legend footage represents an important moment in game preservation, offering fans and historians a rare glimpse into the AAA development process and the creative decisions that shaped one of gaming’s most recognizable characters.