In a post on the official Tomb Raider Tumblr blog, Crystal Dynamics explain why Rise of the Tomb Raider is “coming exclusively to Xbox” Holiday 2015.
“Our goal has always been to deliver something truly special with Rise of the Tomb Raider,” writes Crystal Dynamics’ Head of Studios Darrel Gallagher. “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.”
While Gallagher doesn’t specify just what kind of support Microsoft are providing, it could be anything from development assistance to a great deal of marketing support to a simple exclusivity contract in exchange for funding. Gallagher did not specify how long the exclusivity to Xbox would last either.
“This doesn’t mean that we’re walking away from our fans who only play on PlayStation or on PC,” Gallagher says. “Those are great systems, with great partners, and amazing communities. We have Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris coming to those platforms this December, and Tomb Raider: The Definitive Edition is available on PS4.”
“We know that there are probably many more questions and concerns. Please do send them to us, and we’ll answer to the best of our ability. Meanwhile we’re going all out to try and make something truly special – the most ambitious Tomb Raider game ever built.”
It is still unclear as to whether Rise of the Tomb Raider is coming just to Xbox One or whether it’s in development for Xbox 360 as well.