Last year’s Tomb Raider (2013) Nintendo Switch 1/2 port didn’t get off to a smooth start, with some long-time fans declaring it a subpar refresh of the modern action-adventure classic. Over time, however, Aspyr has whipped it into shape. Now, a true physical release for Switch 2 is coming from Limited Run Games, though it’s a pricey one.
The pre-orders page has gone live today, with the Standard edition set at $49.99 (international prices may vary) and the Collector’s package bumping the tag to $79.99. The Standard one is retro-ish in that it includes a booklet alongside the full game on cart, but don’t expect more. A quick look at the North American eShop listing for the game reveals you’d be paying $30 more for this physical release.
The steep price for the Standard edition actually works in the Collector’s edition’s favour if you ask me. It’s not a stunner, but the steelcase and pry axe keychain look neat, and you’re also getting a map of Yamatai (the game’s remote cursed island), and a physical soundtrack CD.
Of course, there’s also the matter of Limited Run Games having a spotty track record when it comes to delivering its physical releases on time. Moreover, as its name suggests, these are limited physical runs that are rarely allowed to be sold through retailers, so it’s a “take it or leave it kind of deal” that might feel especially icky when the prices seem exorbitant. How much of a collector are you?
Still, chances are the most passionate Tomb Raider fans will be pouncing on this one when the pre-orders are opened tomorrow. It must also be noted the estimated ship window is 1st April to 30th June, 2027, so that’s quite the long wait. Also, it’s quite good timing today to announce a physical version of a game – it’s an easy way to earn some decent approval as Sony and PlayStation announces it’s about to kill off physical media for good.
Following a “passionate response” to Tomb Raider’s port, Aspyr also released last month a convincing port of its follow-up, Rise of the Tomb Raider, only for Switch 2. Chances are Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the Survivor Trilogy’s final entry, will get the same treatment sooner rather than later.
