Interview: Aspyr on bringing Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition to Nintendo Switch 2 / Switch and future possibilities

There’s been a lot going on within the world of Tomb Raider recently, including the arrival of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition on Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch. Ports for both systems were announced and released last month.

To learn more about what went into the launch of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition, we spoke with producer manager Jordon Reese from Aspyr. Reese also touched on some other points from us, including the possibility of bringing Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, future Nintendo Switch 2 support, and more.

Here’s our full discussion:

To begin, can you give some insight into how the project came about? A better question might be “why now?” Many Nintendo Switch owners were hoping to see a port years ago, so the timing caught some fans by surprise.

This project was a natural evolution of our deep commitment to the Tomb Raider franchise and the Nintendo community. We’ve had such a phenomenal response to the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered and Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered collections on Nintendo Switch, and the hunger for Lara Croft’s modern origins was undeniable. As we were preparing our strategy for the new console, it simply became the perfect time. We wanted to celebrate the arrival of the Switch 2, while simultaneously celebrating the long-endearing legacy of Lara Croft as she bridges console generations.

What was behind the “shadowdrop” strategy?

The shadowdrop was intentional, and a blast to execute. It was our way of giving back to the Nintendo fans who have been so loyal. After the success of our previous Tomb Raider remasters, we felt a sudden, immediate release – or a true surprise – would create an authentic moment of excitement. It lets the fans drive the initial conversation, and seeing the immediate reaction across social media has confirmed that this was the right way to launch this critically important game.

Which team did Aspyr work with on the Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch versions? Was Crystal Dynamics involved at all?

As always with our work on the Tomb Raider franchise, this was a true collaborative effort between Aspyr and Crystal Dynamics. We worked closely with Crystal Dynamics all along the way to ensure that Lara Croft’s debut on the Nintendo Switch 2 was authentic and exciting. Their support was invaluable to ensuring the original vision for the title was maintained across Switch and Switch 2.

Can you clarify how the Switch 2 version was built? Fans have speculated that it’s largely based on the Switch 1 version. If that’s the case, is there a reason why the PS4 / Xbox One versions weren’t used as the base instead?

That speculation has some truth to it, though the reality is much more nuanced. The core structure is based on a flexible code branch that allowed us to efficiently target the original Switch’s architecture, which was critical for making it a simultaneous launch across both consoles.

For the Switch 2 version, we didn’t just bump the resolution; we used the new hardware’s capabilities to push for a stable 60 frames per second. While a few of the more complex graphical features from the PS4/Xbox One release weren’t prioritized over achieving that rock-solid performance, the result is a beautiful, highly playable version that feels fantastic in your hands. We believe performance and fluidity are paramount for a portable experience.

We were very surprised to see that the multiplayer mode is available – many remasters often exclude that. Was it always the plan to have that feature left in?

Absolutely. The multiplayer mode was always planned to be a part of this release, as we’re always dedicated to delivering the complete experience whenever possible. Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition was no exception, especially on a console with such an engaged and positive online community like Nintendo!

Are there any plans to update the game on Nintendo Switch 2? We’ve been seeing some reports of issues with the gyro and mouse controls. Some fans are also hoping for graphical improvements with the Nintendo Switch 2 version.

We are listening closely to all player feedback, especially from the dedicated Nintendo community. As always, we plan to make game improvements via patches over time so that the game can be the best possible experience for all players. We encourage anyone that experiences any issues to submit a bug report at: https://support.aspyr.com/hc/en-us

This game kicked off the Tomb Raider “Survivor” trilogy, so we need to ask the obvious question – is Aspyr interested in bringing over Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider to Nintendo platforms as well?

We have definitely seen this question! We’ve successfully brought back the classic era (I-VI) and now the ‘origin story’ of Lara Croft to modern Nintendo platforms. We can’t announce anything at the moment but the passionate response to this release is strong encouragement for us to continue exploring those possibilities.

What are Aspyr’s plans for Nintendo Switch 2 moving forward? Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is the publisher’s first release, so will all games be on the system in the future or will it initially be more case-by-case basis?

The Nintendo Switch 2 represents a major new chapter for us. Aspyr is committed to supporting this console, and while it will always be a case-by-case basis to ensure a high-quality product, you can absolutely expect that this is the beginning of a robust plan. For future cross-platform titles, the Switch 2 will be a primary target. We’re excited about the hardware’s capabilities and see it as a fantastic platform for bringing a wider range of high-fidelity titles to Nintendo players.

On a similar note, how long does Aspyr intend to continue supporting the original Nintendo Switch with new releases?

Just like most publishers in the industry currently, we will continue to watch where players are on Nintendo systems.

Does the company have any plans to go back and offer Nintendo Switch 2 updates for previous Switch 1 games? Alternatively, would Aspyr be interested in any Nintendo Switch 2 Editions?

Nothing is off the table these days, although we have nothing to announce at this time. As I said above, we will continue to monitor where players are on Nintendo systems.

Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is currently available as a digital download on Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch.