New Tomb Raider goes digi-only

One of the highest-profile brands in video gaming is taking the bold move of bypassing retail altogether with the confirmation that Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light will be a digital-only release.

Interestingly, the game has also dropped the famous ‘Tomb Raider’ moniker, relying instead on the brand appeal of leading heroine Lara Croft.

This is a really exciting project for Crystal Dynamics, we have created something completely new and very different to what people might be expecting,” Crystal Dynamics general manager Darrell Gallagher stated.

Lara Croft is such an iconic character in videogames, with Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light we have created what we believe is a truly original digital experience.”

The game is due out in 2010 and will be the first title in the series to be released under the stewardship of new Eidos owner Square Enix.

Platforms have not yet been confirmed.

It’s not the first time Lara Croft has dabbled with digital delivery. Tomb Raider Anniversary was available as a two-part download on Xbox Live to all those who bought the boxed version of Tomb Raider: Legend – though the game was also available in shops.

UPDATE: When asked by MCV about the possibility of a retail release at a later date, a Square Enix spokesperson stated: "There is no further information beyond what is in the press release at this stage."