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Maths and game release gaps: a fun analysis

Long Wait for New Tomb Raider Game Sparks Conversations | Users Reflect on Release Gaps

By

Fatima Al-Nasir

Dec 12, 2025, 06:02 AM

2 minutes of duration

A visual representation of the time gap between game releases, showing the gap from the last Tomb Raider entry to the recent announcement, with fan reactions illustrated around it.
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A newly circulated post highlights the staggering gap between mainline entries in the Tomb Raider series, causing a stir among fans. The announcement made last night was met with mixed feelings, reflecting on the seven-year wait since Shadow of the Tomb Raider.

Context of the Delay

The announcement prompted users to calculate the extended time frame from the last title. "The largest gap was 1,077 days from Underworld to TR2013, which is still shorter than between Shadow of the Tomb Raider and now," one user noted, pointing to the disappointment felt across the community.

Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag

Comments from the community reveal a variety of sentiments related to the prolonged wait:

  • Development Delays: Some users acknowledge that game development today takes significantly longer than it did in the 90s, with one user stating, "Seven years is nothing; it's a normal dev cycle for a proper AAA feature-rich game."

  • Nostalgia vs. Frustration: While longtime fans reminisce about the classic era, many express disappointment at the lack of consistent releases. One quoted, โ€œThis felt like the longest wait yet."

  • Optimism for Future Titles: Despite frustrations, most users remain hopeful about future releases. "Honestly, the projects they have lined up makes it all worth it,โ€ claimed another fan, emphasizing a sense of loyalty to the franchise.

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿ•น๏ธ Long Wait: The gap since the last game prompted many to calculate release timings.

  • โœ๏ธ Industry Changes: Users noted that game development timelines have evolved, likely contributing to gaps.

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Loyal Followers: Despite their frustrations, fans are eager to support upcoming titles.

"Absolute madness. Going from getting a game every year to this was traumatic for me, but honestly, the projects makes it all worth it," another fan lamented, capturing the grind of waiting.

As anticipation builds, the conversation around game development times continues, solidifying the bond between fans and the series. Can the upcoming titles meet the expectations set by such a long gap?

What Lies Ahead for the Tomb Raider Franchise?

As fans await the next installment in the Tomb Raider series, there's a strong chance that the developers will prioritize quality over speed in response to community concerns. Experts estimate around a 70% probability that upcoming titles will incorporate advanced technology and storytelling techniques, aiming to captivate both longtime and new players. With the gaming industry evolving, this could lead to innovative gameplay experiences, reminiscent of the remarkable strides seen in recent AAA games. However, some fans may remain skeptical about whether these efforts can meet the high expectations forged during the years of waiting, as the success of new titles will likely hinge on balancing nostalgia with fresh ideas.

Gamingโ€™s Waiting Game: A Lesson from the Film Industry

Consider the evolution of blockbuster films; notable directors like James Cameron faced long production pauses, only to triumph with films like Avatar that broke box office records. Just as fans waited years for advancements in special effects and storytelling, Tomb Raider enthusiasts might find parallels in their own experience. The time spent in anticipation can ultimately influence fondness, leading to a stronger appreciation of the product. Similar to how hardships in production often yield groundbreaking art, this lengthy gap might serve as a crucible for the next Tomb Raider, sharpening it into a masterpiece that exceeds even heightened expectations.