The Lara Croft Series is a popular video game franchise created by Core Design and published by Square Enix. It features the character Lara Croft, an adventurous archaeologist known for her exploration of ancient tombs and solving puzzles. The series began with the release of the first game, Tomb Raider, in 1996, which introduced players to Lara's iconic character and gameplay mechanics. Over the years, the series has expanded to include numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations in other media, such as films and comics. The games are known for their engaging storylines, challenging gameplay, and stunning graphics, making Lara Croft a cultural icon in the gaming world.