Tomb Raider Director on Three Decades of 3D Level Design

October 21, 2026 - 17:51

Tomb Raider game director Raul Siqueira has shared his perspective on how 3D level design has changed over the past 30 years, reflecting on what has been gained and what risks being lost as technology advances. Siqueira, who has worked across multiple entries in the series, argues that the core principles of spatial design remain rooted in the same ideas that defined the original games, even as the tools used to build them have transformed.

A central theme in his comments is the importance of preserving isolation. Siqueira notes that early Tomb Raider levels placed players alone in vast, silent spaces, forcing them to read architecture and navigate without constant instruction. He believes that sense of solitude is essential to the series' identity and should not be sacrificed for spectacle or constant action.

Siqueira also points to the evolution of camera technology as one of the most significant shifts in 3D design. Improved cameras allow developers to guide players more subtly and frame environments with greater precision, but he cautions that over-reliance on cinematic presentation can undermine the player's sense of discovery.

Regarding Legacy of Atlantis, Siqueira explains that the game includes optional guidance systems designed to assist players who want direction without removing the challenge for those who prefer to explore unaided. He describes this as a balance between accessibility and respect for player agency, allowing newcomers to find their footing while preserving the satisfaction of solving problems independently.