Tomb Raider: Lara Croft Season 1 Review – Exploring the Meaning of Survival

Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is a captivating animated series inspired by the legendary video game franchise, which premiered on Netflix on October 10, 2024. This adaptation draws heavily from Crystal Dynamics’s Survivor Trilogy, including Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider.

Since the introduction of these titles, the Tomb Raider saga has delved deeper into more profound themes, especially highlighting the trauma Lara Croft has faced throughout her journeys and the burden of survivor’s guilt she carries as a result.

A prominent theme explored in this series is the peril of vengefulness, most vividly illustrated by the antagonist, Charles Devereaux, who jeopardizes the world in his pursuit of vengeance for his father’s demise.

Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft depicts Lara’s battle with her past as a survivor

In a manner reminiscent of the Crystal Dynamics trilogy, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft deeply examines the emotional toll that survival exacts on Lara. The events of the Tomb Raider (2013) game play a significant role in shaping the series’ narrative. Lara is frequently haunted by traumatic memories from her ill-fated expedition to Yamatai, which resulted in the loss of her entire team, including her mentor, Conrad Roth.

Even after overcoming the threat of Himiko’s spirit and escaping the island, the psychological effects of that ordeal continue to weigh heavily on Lara in the series. She’s portrayed as hesitant to form close relationships, acutely aware of how perilous her adventures can be for those around her.

The plot of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft revolves around the Peril Stones—enchanted gems like the Stone of Greed, Stone of Wrath, Stone of Betrayal, and Stone of Power. These artifacts are believed to be cursed and can potentially wreak havoc upon the world if not properly concealed.

At the series’ outset, Lara and Conrad Roth discover the Stone of Greed, which takes viewers back to an earlier phase of her career, preceding her journey to Yamatai. Despite the stone’s ominous reputation, Roth insists on claiming the artifact, even going so far as to eliminate one of its protectors who attempts to stop him.

Following Conrad Roth’s death at Yamatai, Lara has kept her distance from thoughts of the Peril Stones. To help heal from her past, she begins auctioning off some of her father’s treasures. This decision inadvertently allows Charles Devereaux to infiltrate her home and steal the Stone of Greed, compelling Lara to delve into the lore of the Peril Stones and the threats they pose.

Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is a well-crafted animation for fans

As you watch the Netflix series, it’s evident that it is tailored for the existing fanbase of Tomb Raider. Those who are not acquainted with the games, especially the Crystal Dynamics Survivor Trilogy, may find themselves struggling to grasp the nuances of Lara’s survivor guilt.

The motivations of Charles Devereaux also become clearer when considering the influence of secret societies like Trinity, depicted in Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. Aside from the prerequisite knowledge, however, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft stands out as a proficient production.

The animation is fluid and adeptly captures the distinctive Tomb Raider style. The series skillfully balances its tone, providing moments that showcase Lara grappling with her trauma alongside sequences that highlight her formidable, heroic nature.

Overall, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is particularly appealing to longtime fans seeking further escapades of Lara Croft. For newcomers to the franchise, it might be advisable to explore the Survivor Trilogy first, which is available on current gaming consoles and PC.

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