'Engaging' Netflix series based on iconic franchise, cast, plot, release date

A fresh chapter of Netflix's adaptation of a legendary video game franchise is set to hit screens later this month.

The second series of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is just around the corner, promising to further the saga of one of gaming's most cherished characters.

While the narrative picks up from the rebooted version of the games, which kicked off in 2013, nods to the classic titles are still present.

But what exactly is the animated series Legend of Lara Croft all about? Who lends their voices to the characters, and how was the first season received?

Here's everything you need to know ahead of the release of season 2

What can we expect from Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft season 2?

The first season of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft served as an origin story of sorts, with the second season set to progress her character from a relative novice to the iconic figure we recognise today , reports the Mirror.

This may cause some confusion for die-hard fans, as the series continues 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 traced a similar journey for Lara from greenhorn explorer to formidable and seasoned adventurer.

The synopsis for series 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 revealed that the upcoming series will centre on Lara's transformation from a solitary operative to assembling a crew around her. She's also teased that a shark might make an appearance at some stage in the programme, suggesting another iconic gaming sequence recreation. In series one, Lara encountered a T. rex as a tribute to the original game.

Who features in the cast for Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft series 2?

Hayley Atwell, recognised for her roles in Marvel films and television programmes as Agent Carter, plus her appearance in Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning, will return as Lara Croft. Earl Baylon will likewise come back as Jonah, a character he provided the voice for in series one and the Tomb Raider games created by Crystal Dynamics.

Baylon's voice may also be recognised by gaming enthusiasts from other titles such as Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Rise of the Ronin, and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.

Another Tomb Raider video game companion returning for series 2 is Zip, who initially appeared in the Tomb Raider Chronicles game.

He subsequently featured in Legend and Underworld, serves as Lara's trusted aide and technology specialist, and was once more portrayed by Allen Maldonado.

Maldonado appeared as Curtis on Black-ish and Rooster Robbins in the programme Heels. Several cast members remain to be revealed.

This encompasses who will portray Lara's closest friend, Sam, who is scheduled to accompany her on a fresh assignment. Sam was another character who featured in the 2013 Tomb Raider game. Details of series 2's antagonist are also yet to be disclosed.

What did reviews for Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft say about series 1?

Series 1 of the programme secured a rating of 73% on the website Rotten Tomatoes. Numerous critics commend it as remarkable fan service for devotees of the original games, whilst simultaneously providing something novel for the legendary Lara Croft character.

One reviewer went as far as to declare: "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 fan chimed in, "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."

Despite some reviews expressing disappointment with the actual animation, one viewer noted: "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 is Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft season 2 set to premiere on Netflix?

Fans can binge-watch all episodes of the first season currently available on Netflix. The wait for the next chapter won't be long as season 2 is slated to drop on December 11.