Rise of the Tomb Raider's Xbox One exclusively explained

Rise of the Tomb Raider’s exclusivity to Xbox One has been explained its developer.

Yesterday it was revealed during Gamescom that the sequel to Crystal Dynamics critically acclaimed 2013 reboot Tomb Raider would be exclusive to Xbox One.

The announcement provoked much debate on social media about the decision with some upset at the decision considering that Tomb Raider was available for both PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

Darrell Gallagher, Head of Studios at Crystal Dynamics, took to Tomb Raider’s official Tumblr page to further explain the decision, saying it was “the very best thing” for the title.

“Tomb Raider in 2013 was a success due in large part to your continued support. Our goal has always been to deliver something truly special with Rise of the Tomb Raider. 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.”

He then assured fans that the studio was not “walking away” from their PlayStation and PC fans, pointing out fans will still get Lara Croft and The Temple of Osiris for those consoles as well as the recently released Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition for PlayStation 4.

Announced during E3 in June, the sequel will be set following the events of Tomb Raider and follows Lara Croft as she must use her survival skills, learn to trust new friends, and ultimately accept her destiny as the Tomb Raider.

Lara will also travel across the world, visiting locations filled with exploration spaces.

Camilla Luddington will reprise her role as Croft whilst Rhianna Pratchett will also return as the writer.

It will be available in the 2015 holidays.