The latest entry starring one of the most beloved characters is nearly here
A new instalment of Netflix’s adaptation of an iconic video game franchise is set to land later this month.
Season 2 of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft arrives very soon and promises to continue the journey of one of the most beloved characters. While the story continues from the rebooted version of the games, which started back in 2013, there are still references to the classic titles.
But what is the animated series Legend of Lara Croft actually about? Who is in the voice cast, and what was the verdict on season one? Here’s everything you need to know before season 2’s release date.
What is Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft season 2 about?
Season 1 of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft was an origin story of sorts, and Season 2 looks to advance her character from somewhat of a rookie to her journey to becoming the icon we know today.
This could be confusing for dedicated fans as events of the series pick up after the events of the highly successful Tomb Raider video game Survivor trilogy (Tomb Raider; Rise of the Tomb Raider; Shadow of the Tomb Raider), which charted the exact same kind of journey for Lara from novice explorer to fearsome and experienced adventurer.
The synopsis for season 2 specifically states: “When adventurer Lara Croft discovers a trail of stolen African Orisha masks, she joins forces with her best friend Sam to retrieve the precious artifacts. Lara’s thrilling new adventure takes her around the globe as she delves deeper into the hidden secrets of Orisha history, dodges the machinations of a dangerous and enigmatic billionaire who wants the masks for herself, while discovering these relics contain dark secrets and a power that defies logic. Power that may, in fact, be divine.”
Showrunner Tasha Huo has explained that the new season will focus on Lara transitioning from a lone wolf to building a team around her. She’s also promised a shark could appear at some point in the series, hinting at another classic game moment recreation. In season one, Lara came face-to-face with a T. rex in a nod to the original game.
Who is in the cast for Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft season 2?
Hayley Atwell, known for starring in Marvel movies and TV series as Agent Carter, as well as appearing in Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning, will reprise her role of Lara Croft. Earl Baylon will also return as Jonah, a character he voiced in season one and the Tomb Raider games developed by Crystal Dynamics.
Baylon’s voice may also be familiar to gamers from other titles such as Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Rise of the Ronin, and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Another Tomb Raider video game ally back for season 2 is Zip, who first appeared in the Tomb Raider Chronicles game.
He later featured in Legend and Underworld, is Lara’s right-hand man and tech expert, and was once again played by Allen Maldonado. Maldonado starred as Curtis on Black-ish and Rooster Robbins in the series Heels.
There are a few cast members we’re yet to discover. This includes who will take on the role of Lara’s best friend, Sam, who is set to join her on a new mission. Sam was another character who appeared in the 2013 Tomb Raider game. Details of season 2’s villain are also yet to be confirmed.
What did reviews for Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft say about season 1?
Season 1 of the series achieved a score of 73% on the website Rotten Tomatoes. Plenty of critics praise it as impressive fan service for fans of the original games, while also offering something fresh for the iconic Lara Croft character.
One critic went so far as to say: “Tomb Raider: Legend of Lara Croft fits alongside the acclaimed TV versions of Fallout and The Last of Us, continuing the strong streak of video game television adaptations that are far better than they have any right to be.”
Another added, “It’s not just another adaptation; it adds an extra layer of emotional development that takes her story to new heights with her signature guns. Lara Croft’s legacy lives on.”
While some reviews are disappointed with the actual animation, one said: “It provides us with an engaging new adventure, exciting new characters, plenty of action, and, of course, as much tomb raiding as you could ever hope for.”
When does Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft season 2 release on Netflix?
Viewers can catch up on all episodes of season one right now on Netflix. There’s not too long to wait for the latest instalment as season 2 is set to land on December 11.
Tomb Raider The Legend of Lara Croft is streaming on Netflix
