Gamer's Lara Croft collection breaks world record

Amy Dyson, a 33-year-old enthusiast, has secured a Guinness World Record for her extensive collection of Tomb Raider video games, totaling 341 individually boxed titles. Her remarkable hoard includes the original 1996 release and imported editions, alongside various memorabilia and a life-sized Lara Croft statue. Dyson's passion for the franchise extends beyond mere collecting; Tomb Raider has become an integral tool in managing her Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition that affects brain signal transmission. The familiar puzzles and engaging gameplay provide a vital distraction during unpredictable symptom flare-ups, such as brain fog and tremors.

Dyson's connection with Lara Croft began in the late 1990s with Tomb Raider II, a game that offered a sense of empowerment during her childhood in a remote village. This early fascination evolved into a lifelong pursuit, culminating in her university dissertation on the character. The official record was achieved last summer when her collection stood at 291 games, with a further 50 added since. She continues to expand her library, seeking out regional variants and rare editions.

Inspired by Lara Croft's resilience, Dyson has also pushed her personal boundaries, conquering her lifelong fear of heights by climbing the O2 Arena in London. Her collection, now housed in a spare bedroom in Milton Keynes, is a testament to her dedication and a source of pride, despite her mother's mild frustration over the occupied space. Dyson actively shares her collection and Tomb Raider news on her social media account, Tomb Raider Games Library.