Mumbai: Eidos Interactive revealed that seasoned gymnast Alison Carroll will be the new face of famed videogame character Lara Croft. Carroll will portray the internationally recognized heroine for the next year, with her first appearances to be made promoting the latest installment to the gaming franchise, Tomb Raider: Underworld, which ships November.

With an all-new engine built specifically to exploit the capabilities of the latest game consoles, Tomb Raider: Underworld depicts Croft with movements and skills reminiscent of a highly skilled gymnast. Sharing Croft’s strength and grace, Carroll is an experienced competitive gymnast who has performed and competed across the globe.

Throughout her adventure in Tomb Raider: Underworld, Lara faces challenges unlike anything she has experienced in the past, putting her own training to the ultimate test. In preparation for this role, Carroll is embarking on a regime that includes survival, combat and semi-automatic weapons training, as well as world archeology coursework, all of which complement the mythology and exploration themes at the heart of the Tomb Raider franchise.

"This is a fantastic opportunity and I look forward to embracing Lara’s world," said Carroll. "It’s unbelievable how realistic her movements are in Tomb Raider: Underworld and it’s so gratifying to be able to use my years of gymnastic training to portray such a beloved character."

"With her tremendous athletic ability and striking look, we feel Carroll embodies the spirit and strength of Lara Croft," said Eidos executive vice president of sales and marketing Robert A. Lindsey. "We’re excited to be working with her for the launch of Tomb Raider: Underworld and beyond, and can’t wait to see the reactions of Tomb Raider fans around the world to Alison’s uncannily realistic portrayal of Lara."