Microsoft has confirmed that the sequel to the critically acclaimed Tomb Raider reboot will be an Xbox exclusive.
Rise of the Tomb Raider was originally previewed at E3, where it was thought that it would be a multi-platform release like its predecessor. Turns out everyone was wrong. Microsoft also added that the game will drop “Holiday 2015”.
Adding to the bad news for PS4 and PC owners, this may not even be a timed-exclusive.
The game’s developer Crystal Dynamics explained the following on its tumblr:
Today’s announcement with Microsoft is one step to help us put Tomb Raider on top of action adventure gaming. Our friends at Microsoft have always seen huge potential in Tomb Raider and have believed in our vision since our first unveil with them on their stage at E3 2011. We know they will get behind this game more than any support we have had from them in the past – we believe this will be a step to really forging the Tomb Raider brand as one of the biggest in gaming, with the help, belief and backing of a major partner like Microsoft.
Crystal Dynamics tried to appease PS4 and PC owners by adding that Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris will be coming to those platforms in December. We doubt that will be much of a consolation for fans eagerly awaiting the follow-up to one of last year’s best titles.
Microsoft came to its pre-Gamescom press briefing today all guns blazing. It also announced that FIFA 15 would have an exclusive Ultimate Team Legends mode on Xbox. Perhaps it doesn’t want a repeat of E3, where most analysts agreed that the best in show presentation came courtesy of Nintendo.
Microsoft will be eager to maintain consumer interest in its next-gen console as it has slipped behind the PS4 in terms of sales. The firm also recently revealed that it had made a $400 million loss on the Xbox One since its launch late last year.
Check out the E3 trailer for Rise of the Tomb Raider below: