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Best games by Crystal Dynamics
14th Feb 2026
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Crystal Dynamics has a storied history in the gaming world, known for crafting compelling narratives, iconic characters, and groundbreaking gameplay experiences. From early forays into action-adventure to their pivotal role in shaping a beloved franchise, this studio has consistently pushed creative boundaries and delivered memorable moments for players worldwide. Their dedication to polished execution and innovation is evident in their diverse portfolio, showcasing a knack for storytelling and a commitment to player satisfaction. Now it's your turn to weigh in! We're curious to know which titles from Crystal Dynamics resonate most with you. Explore the poll below and select your favorite games. Feel free to consider everything from thrilling action sequences to the immersive worlds they've brought to life. Let your voice be heard and cast your vote for the best Crystal Dynamics games!
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#7.
Legacy of Kain: Defiance (2012)
7/10
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**Legacy of Kain: Defiance** plunges players into a rich and intricate narrative, allowing them to assume the dual roles of two formidable vampires: Kain, a god-like entity wielding immense power, and Raziel, a spectral angel of death. Each protagonist is armed with a legendary blade, and together they must navigate a world teetering on the brink of chaos, battling through treacherous landscapes and complex political machinations. Their journey is one of self-discovery and defiance, as they strive to unravel the threads of their interwoven destinies and confront the dark forces bent on ushering their world into an age of eternal damnation. *Legacy of Kain: Defiance* stands as a testament to Crystal Dynamics' mastery of atmospheric storytelling and engaging gameplay, firmly cementing its place on any "Best Games by Crystal Dynamics" list. Released in 2003, the game (not 2012 as per the item description, likely a typo) is a remarkable culmination of the series' established lore and mechanics. Crystal Dynamics successfully blended the distinct playstyles of Kain and Raziel, offering players the strategic, methodical combat of Kain and the agile, spectral prowess of Raziel. The intricate plot, filled with philosophical depth and moral ambiguity, showcases the studio's ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with players long after the credits roll, proving their talent for developing mature and sophisticated action-adventure experiences.
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Tomb Raider (2013)
**Tomb Raider (2013) Game of the Year Edition** This critically acclaimed action-adventure title plunges players into the visceral and gritty origin story of the iconic Lara Croft. Witness her transformation from an inexperienced young woman into a hardened survivor as she is stranded on a mysterious and hostile island. Armed with only her instincts and a relentless will to endure, Lara must navigate treacherous environments, solve intricate puzzles, and engage in brutal combat to uncover the island's dark secrets and escape its unforgiving grasp. The Game of the Year Edition enriches this experience with bonus content, including the Tomb of the Lost Adventurer, a collection of single-player outfits for Lara, additional multiplayer maps, and new characters to command. The 2013 reboot of Tomb Raider, developed by Crystal Dynamics, stands as a monumental achievement and a testament to the studio's mastery of the action-adventure genre. The game garnered widespread praise, with reviewers highlighting its expertly crafted pacing, captivating setting, and dark tone that combine to create a truly memorable experience. Its tight production, proficiency in both puzzle-solving and combat, and the palpable bond formed between player and character solidify its status as a superior entry in the franchise. This reboot redefined Lara Croft for a new generation, delivering a must-play experience that rightfully places it among Crystal Dynamics' best work.
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Rise of the Tomb Raider™ (2016)
**Rise of the Tomb Raider™ (2016)** Embark on Lara Croft's most defining expedition in *Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration*, a critically acclaimed action-adventure that challenges players to survive in the world's most dangerous environments and explore stunning, hostile locales. In this thrilling installment, Lara races against a ruthless organization called Trinity to uncover the secrets of a mythical Lost City, leading her on a perilous journey to Siberia. Experience a world where the environment itself is an enemy, forcing Lara to hunt, scavenge, and craft to overcome treacherous conditions and unstable landscapes. Engage in visceral, guerrilla-style combat, utilizing the environment to your advantage, customizing your gear, and employing a variety of weapons and stealth tactics. Return to the roots of Tomb Raiding with larger, more intricate tombs filled with deadly traps, complex environmental puzzles, and ancient mysteries to decipher. The *20 Year Celebration* edition expands Lara's adventure with a wealth of new content, including the "Blood Ties" story chapter, which allows you to explore and defend Croft Manor, even experiencing it in immersive VR on SteamVR for HTC Vive and Oculus Rift owners. Further tests of survival await in Endurance Mode, both solo and with a friend in the new Co-Op Endurance mode. Brace yourself for the "Lara's Nightmare" mode, where you'll battle hordes of zombies, and the challenging new "Extreme Survivor" difficulty setting for the main campaign. This comprehensive edition also includes all previously released DLC, such as "Baba Yaga: The Temple of the Witch" and "Cold Darkness Awakened," offering hours of additional story, challenges, and enemy encounters, along with a bounty of outfits, weapons, and expedition cards, including classic Lara Croft skins. *Rise of the Tomb Raider* undeniably belongs on a list of the best games by Crystal Dynamics for several key reasons. Building upon the successful reboot of the series, this title represents a significant evolution in gameplay and narrative. Crystal Dynamics masterfully honed their combat system, offering more fluid and strategic encounters that encourage environmental interaction. The game's vast and beautifully realized open hubs provide a sense of exploration that harks back to the series' roots while incorporating modern open-world design principles. Furthermore, the narrative deepened Lara's character, presenting her with more complex moral dilemmas and a more personal quest. The sheer amount of high-quality content included in the *20 Year Celebration* edition, coupled with its rave reviews for its story, gameplay, and technical achievement, solidifies *Rise of the Tomb Raider* as a pinnacle of Crystal Dynamics' work in reinventing and revitalizing the iconic Tomb Raider franchise.
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Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition (2018)
**Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition (2018)** marks the epic conclusion to Lara Croft's origin story, solidifying its place as a standout title from Crystal Dynamics. This Definitive Edition offers the ultimate experience, bundling the critically acclaimed base game with all seven DLC challenge tombs, and an array of downloadable weapons, outfits, and skills. Players will witness Lara's final transformation into the iconic Tomb Raider, forged through her most perilous adventure yet. Praised for its "arresting beauty" and "crisp, addictive, and deeply satisfying" gameplay by outlets like Polygon and Nerdist, the game immerses players in a "truly immersive experience" where survival hinges on mastering an "unforgiving jungle setting." Crystal Dynamics has consistently delivered exceptional titles, and *Shadow of the Tomb Raider* is a testament to their evolution. The game showcases their mastery of environmental design, with "vibrant" exploration and "dark and brutal tombs" that demand advanced traversal and puzzle-solving skills. Lara's ability to "become one with the jungle," using it as both a weapon and a shield, highlights the studio's commitment to deep, engaging mechanics. Furthermore, the inclusion of the largest hub space in the series and the uncovering of "living history" demonstrate Crystal Dynamics' ambition in crafting expansive and lore-rich worlds. This Definitive Edition, running seamlessly on macOS and Linux, encapsulates the pinnacle of their work on the franchise, earning its rightful place among their best games.
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Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft (2024)
**Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft (2024)** invites you to rediscover the foundational pillars of Lara Croft's legendary career, meticulously brought back to life. This definitive collection immerses you in the complete experience of her initial three groundbreaking adventures: *Tomb Raider I* with its *Unfinished Business* expansion, *Tomb Raider II* alongside its *Golden Mask* add-on, and *Tomb Raider III* featuring the *The Lost Artifact* content. For the very first time, all these iconic journeys are accessible on modern platforms, complete with every secret level and expansion. Embark on a globe-trotting odyssey, unearthing treasures and solving intricate puzzles as you unravel ancient mysteries while facing down formidable foes and confronting dangerous myths. While the original *Tomb Raider I-III* were developed by Core Design, the **Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft (2024)** collection rightfully belongs on a "Best Games by Crystal Dynamics" list due to the studio's role in revitalizing and preserving these seminal titles. Crystal Dynamics, known for their later successful reboots of the franchise (*Tomb Raider: Legend*, *Tomb Raider: Underworld*, and the survivor trilogy), demonstrated their deep understanding and respect for Lara's heritage by undertaking this extensive remaster. Their work not only ensures that these landmark games are playable for a new generation with "upgraded graphics" and the beloved option to revert to the "original polygon look," but also highlights their commitment to the franchise's legacy. By lovingly restoring these classics, Crystal Dynamics solidifies their position as custodians of the Tomb Raider universe, showcasing their ability to both innovate and honor the series' rich history.
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LARA CROFT AND THE TEMPLE OF OSIRIS™ (2014)
**Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris™ (2014)** plunges players into a thrilling cooperative adventure set in the treacherous deserts of Egypt. As the follow-up to the beloved *Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light*, this title marks a significant milestone as the first-ever four-player co-op experience featuring the iconic Lara Croft. Players must unite with rival treasure hunter Carter Bell and the Egyptian gods Horus and Isis to thwart the malevolent god Set. Together, they'll navigate a sprawling temple, battle relentless hordes from the underworld, decipher intricate puzzles, and evade deadly traps, all while vying for valuable treasure and powerful artifacts. The fate of the world hangs in the balance as this unlikely quartet races to reassemble the fragments of Osiris and prevent mankind's enslavement. This installment is a strong contender for inclusion on a list of Crystal Dynamics' best due to its innovative approach to the franchise. It successfully expands the *Lara Croft* universe with a robust cooperative gameplay loop, offering a fresh and engaging experience for fans and newcomers alike. The blend of classic arcade-style action with strategic teamwork, coupled with competitive elements that encourage friendly rivalry, makes for highly replayable and memorable gameplay. Furthermore, its stunning visuals and a compelling narrative that delves into Egyptian mythology showcase Crystal Dynamics' commitment to delivering high-quality, engaging titles that push the boundaries of their established IPs.
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Legacy of Kain™ Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered (2024)
**Legacy of Kain™ Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered (2024)** Celebrate the 25th anniversary of a beloved classic with the Legacy of Kain™ Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered. This definitive collection invites you to relive the legendary conflict between the vampire lord Kain and his treacherous lieutenant Raziel, now enhanced with breathtaking remastered graphics alongside the option to experience them in their original glory. Immerse yourself in an epic narrative centuries in the making, as you play as Raziel, a resurrected wraith driven by a burning desire for revenge against Kain, who betrayed and doomed you to damnation. Wield the formidable powers of a wraith, including razor-sharp claws, telekinetic bolts, and the elemental Wraith Blade, growing stronger with every soul you devour. Master the unique ability to shift between the Spectral and Material Realms, unlocking new pathways, solving intricate puzzles, and strategically outmaneuvering your enemies across both dimensions. This remastered collection rightfully claims its place among the best games by Crystal Dynamics. Soul Reaver, and its sequel Soul Reaver 2, represent a pivotal moment in the studio's history, showcasing their early mastery of atmospheric world-building, compelling storytelling, and innovative gameplay mechanics. These titles were instrumental in establishing Crystal Dynamics as a developer capable of delivering mature, narrative-driven experiences that resonated deeply with players. The dark fantasy setting, the intricate lore, and the morally complex characters, particularly Raziel's tragic journey, set Soul Reaver apart as a groundbreaking title for its time. The introduction of realm-shifting gameplay was a stroke of genius, adding a strategic layer to exploration and combat that remains engaging. These games are not just remasters; they are a testament to Crystal Dynamics' ambition and their ability to craft enduring legacies within the gaming landscape.
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Legacy of Kain: Defiance (2012)
**Legacy of Kain: Defiance** plunges players into a rich and intricate narrative, allowing them to assume the dual roles of two formidable vampires: Kain, a god-like entity wielding immense power, and Raziel, a spectral angel of death. Each protagonist is armed with a legendary blade, and together they must navigate a world teetering on the brink of chaos, battling through treacherous landscapes and complex political machinations. Their journey is one of self-discovery and defiance, as they strive to unravel the threads of their interwoven destinies and confront the dark forces bent on ushering their world into an age of eternal damnation. *Legacy of Kain: Defiance* stands as a testament to Crystal Dynamics' mastery of atmospheric storytelling and engaging gameplay, firmly cementing its place on any "Best Games by Crystal Dynamics" list. Released in 2003, the game (not 2012 as per the item description, likely a typo) is a remarkable culmination of the series' established lore and mechanics. Crystal Dynamics successfully blended the distinct playstyles of Kain and Raziel, offering players the strategic, methodical combat of Kain and the agile, spectral prowess of Raziel. The intricate plot, filled with philosophical depth and moral ambiguity, showcases the studio's ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with players long after the credits roll, proving their talent for developing mature and sophisticated action-adventure experiences.
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Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered (2025)
**Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered (2025)** plunges players back into the thrilling and often perilous world of Lara Croft with a collection of her most iconic and challenging escapades, now revitalized for a new generation. This remastered package brings together **Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation**, where Lara's quest for ancient artifacts accidentally unleashes the dark god Set, plunging the world into chaos; **Tomb Raider: Chronicles**, a poignant narrative exploring Lara's past through the memories of her loved ones after her presumed demise; and **Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness**, a gripping tale of intrigue, betrayal, and ancient conspiracies that finds Lara framed for murder and forced to fight for her freedom while unravelling a sinister plot. With the ability to toggle between the beloved classic visuals and stunning remastered graphics, and the chance to traverse breathtaking global locations from the deserts of Egypt to the heart of Europe, this collection offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Lara's darkest and most defining moments. This remastered collection is a fitting inclusion among the **Best games by Crystal Dynamics** for several key reasons. While Crystal Dynamics is renowned for its reinvention of the Tomb Raider franchise with its more recent, character-driven narratives, these earlier titles represent crucial evolutionary steps for the series. They showcase the studio's commitment to expanding Lara's lore and exploring deeper, more mature themes within her adventures. **The Angel of Darkness**, in particular, was a bold departure, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay mechanics for its time, even if it faced development challenges. By remastering these foundational games, Crystal Dynamics not only preserves a vital part of Tomb Raider's history but also highlights their ongoing influence on the series' DNA, demonstrating their early capacity for ambitious narrative design and their willingness to experiment, which ultimately paved the way for the acclaimed reboot trilogy.
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Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 2 (2001) (2012)
**Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 2 (2001) (2012)** invites players back into the dark and intricate world of Nosgoth, with a narrative that plunges you into the heart of Raziel's desperate quest for vengeance. As Raziel, you will traverse through distinct historical epochs of Nosgoth, each meticulously crafted with gothic architecture and rich detail. Your relentless pursuit of Kain will lead you to uncover ancient mysteries surrounding Nosgoth's long-lost races, the corruption of the Pillars, and the devastating vampire genocide. To aid in your journey, you'll acquire potent enhancements for your Soul Reaver weapon, unlock formidable new physical abilities, and discover relics that allow for deeper environmental interaction and the unveiling of Nosgoth's deepest secrets. Prepare to face a diverse array of new adversaries, including cunning vampire hunters, fanatical Sarafan warrior-priests, ethereal spectral spirits, and terrifying extra-dimensional demons, all while experiencing a compelling storyline, superb voice-over performances, and seamless gameplay with no in-game loading times. The innovative ability to shift between the spectral and material realms in real-time opens up previously inaccessible areas, enriching both exploration and combat. *Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 2* unequivocally earns its place on the list of "Best games by Crystal Dynamics" due to its ambitious storytelling, revolutionary gameplay mechanics, and the developer's masterful execution of a mature and complex narrative. Crystal Dynamics demonstrated a remarkable capacity for world-building and character development, creating an engrossing lore that resonated deeply with players. The game's innovative spectral/material realm shifting was a technical and design triumph for its time, significantly influencing puzzle design and combat encounters. Furthermore, *Soul Reaver 2* showcased Crystal Dynamics' commitment to delivering high-quality voice acting and atmospheric presentation, solidifying the *Legacy of Kain* series as a landmark achievement in narrative-driven action-adventure games. It stands as a testament to their ability to craft experiences that are not only engaging to play but also intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
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Pandemonium (2013)
In "Pandemonium (2013)", players are invited to step into a vibrant 3D realm alongside the unlikely duo of Fargus the Jester and Nikki the acrobat. Together, they embark on an exhilarating quest to locate the legendary Wishing Engine, navigating through 18 expansive and varied levels filled with magic and intrigue. This fast-paced 3D platformer boasts a richly textured environment and offers a wealth of gameplay elements, including comical power-ups, hidden secrets, challenging boss encounters, and the exciting ability to transform into a rhino or a dragon. The experience is further enhanced by a captivating soundtrack and beautifully crafted cinematics, promising an utterly immersive adventure. While Crystal Dynamics is more widely recognized for its work on the Tomb Raider franchise and other contemporary titles, "Pandemonium (2013)" represents a significant departure, showcasing their earlier roots in the platforming genre. This game, and its predecessor, demonstrated Crystal Dynamics' early ambition and creativity in developing engaging 3D experiences, even if they predate the studio's more modern successes. "Pandemonium" stands as a testament to their capability in crafting playful, action-packed adventures with unique characters and imaginative worlds, earning its place as a noteworthy entry in the company's diverse portfolio.
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