Between remasters, mobile ports and the next big episodes, the license tomb Raider has never been so present. 2026 already promises to be busy for Lara Croftbut another project is starting to make a lot of noise among PC players, far from the official circuits.
In May 2026 must be released Tomb Raider: Side-Scroller Editiona new free fan-made game that reinterprets PS1 episodes from a side-on view. Perfect timing for all those who plan to follow the remasters, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis Then Tomb Raider: Catalyst and who already want to get back into the very retro atmosphere of the series.
Tomb Raider: Side-Scroller Edition: what is this new free game?
Tomb Raider: Side-Scroller Edition is an unofficial fan game developed by two enthusiasts, Delca And Trxye. The project transforms the original 3D adventures into a 2.5D side scroller, with three-dimensional settings but mainly horizontal progression, classic platformer style.
The game includes no less than eleven cult levels, mainly inspired by Tomb Raider II and other PlayStation episodes: Croft Manor, the Great Wall of China, Venice and many other iconic environments. The developers have preserved the very particular physics of the time, down to the possibility of performing an angel’s jump to end up crushed on the concrete like in 1997.
In terms of atmosphere, everything is designed to stick to the PS1 sensations: weapon sounds, footsteps and deliberately angular visuals. On Reddit, a fan summed up the general mood by saying: “Why does this look so cute? It totally reminds me of the old Super Mario and Sonic games! Kudos to the devs behind this! Amazing work! I can’t wait to play it!” The project will be offered free of charge on TRCustoms.orgthe reference site for mods and fan games tomb Raider.
A perfect gift for Lara Croft fans nostalgic for the PS1
For veterans, this side scroller serves as a playable Proust madeleine between official remasters Tomb Raider I-III Remasteredfuture reworked episodes IV-VI and the releases of new games. For newcomers, the side camera limits camera acrobatics while retaining the traps, puzzles and shootouts characteristic of the license.
Release, download on PC and how to prepare now
Scheduled for May 2026 on PC Windows, Tomb Raider: Side-Scroller Edition will be offered as a free download on TRCustoms.orgwithout in-app purchases, which generally remains accepted by Crystal Dynamics. A simple PC equipped with Windows and a few free gigabytes should be enough, although a controller will make the experience more comfortable.
The creators have not yet detailed the supported languages, but we can reasonably count on a minimal interface in English. While waiting for the release, players can follow the project on Reddit and TRCustoms, while (re)visiting the remasters or preparing for Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis and Tomb Raider: Catalyst, to experience a year 2026 fully placed under the sign of Lara Croft.