Speculations are swirling around the next mainline chapter of the Tomb Raider series, indicating a possible shift towards a completely open-world setting. Recent rumors, originating from an insider, suggest a departure from the linear and level-based gameplay seen in previous Tomb Raider titles.

Crystal Dynamics, the studio behind the acclaimed Tomb Raider reboot trilogy, teased the commencement of a new installment at the State of Unreal showcase in April 2022. While confirming the use of Unreal Engine 5 for the upcoming game, specific details about the title remain scarce. Apart from unveiling a revamped Lara Croft design, no substantial information has been shared since the game's announcement two years ago.

According to leaks by an insider named V Scooper on Twitter, the next Tomb Raider game is rumored to be an expansive open-world adventure set in India. The game is said to offer vast landscapes and new modes of transportation, such as motorcycles and parachutes, for players to navigate the unrestricted terrain.

V Scooper hinted at a potential imminent release, suggesting the game might launch within a year if all goes smoothly. However, the release timeframe remains uncertain, leaving room for delays.

Fans Divided Over Open-World Direction

The purported shift to an open-world format in the upcoming Tomb Raider game may polarize fans, depending on the execution by Crystal Dynamics. The success of this design choice hinges on how well the studio integrates open-world elements and traversal mechanics. While the authenticity of these rumors remains unverified, anticipation for the new Tomb Raider installment continues to build among gamers, with the potential for a 2024 release fueling excitement.