'Tomb Raider' Rise of the Tomb Raider on Xbox One, Xbox 360 Release Date, News: PS4, PC Fans Sign Petition
Game fans have expressed misgivings as the release of Lara Croft's "Rise of the Tomb Raider" game exclusively on Xbox 360 and Xbox One in fall of 2015 draws nearer. They have started a petition opposing the move at Change.org.
"Since its origins in 1996, 'Tomb Raider' has been a multi-platform franchise with fans all over the world playing on diverse systems and devices," the petition said. "The recent decision to release the upcoming 'Rise of the Tomb Raider' as an Xbox One exclusive alienates the majority of the fan base and will ultimately lead to the demise of the franchise. We, the undersigned fans, urge you to reconsider this decision and bring the game out on all three major platforms – PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One – simultaneously."
The petition has reportedly been amassing signatures.
However, some sources said the petition may turn out to be pointless, because the exclusivity is most likely time-based and will not last forever. This means the game will be released eventually to PC/PS4 after the exclusivity deal lapses.
The reboot of "Tomb Raider" in 2013 was released on Xbox 360, PS3, PC, PS4 and Xbox One. However, it was announced last year that the sequel, "Rise of the Tomb Raider," will be released exclusively in Xbox, the video and gaming brand created and owned by Microsoft.
Speculations on the reason for the exclusivity have given rise to several theories. One such theory was that Microsoft paid to make "Rise of the Tomb Raider" an Xbox exclusive to counter Playstation's exclusive franchise, "Uncharted." Another theory was that the game could use Microsoft's backing, which was recently confirmed by Chrystal Dynamics' Darrel Gallagher in a letter to fans in the official Tomb Raider 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."
Microsoft is expected to throw everything it can in terms of marketing and hype to ensure everyone knows "Rise of the Tomb Raider" is exclusive to Xbox.