"This is a really exciting project for Crystal Dynamics, we have created something completely new and very different to what people might be expecting," said general manager Darrell Gallagher in a press statement. "We have created what we believe is a truly original digital experience."

In July 2009 a leaked concept for "the next Tomb Raider video game" detailed an open-world origin story with melee combat and survival horror elements, though it's yet unclear whether this concept became Guardian of Light or is something separate.

"Crystal are working on 2 projects in the studio, this is only one of them," Eidos group community manager Keir Edmonds coyly posted on the forum, while Crystal's official Twitter account teases "maybe ;)" the second project has "Tomb Raider" in its title.

Whatever it is, Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light is headed to platforms unknown this year. More details are promised during GDC, which runs from March 9 to March 13.