To resolve the "steam_api.dll is missing" error for Tomb Raider (2013)

: Sometimes "missing DLL" errors are actually caused by outdated support libraries. Ensure you have the latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable installed.

This is a neighboring issue. Sometimes the error says SteamAPI.dll, but the real problem is missing C++ runtimes.

If the file is present but the game still won't launch, try these additional fixes:

Instead of downloading random DLL files from the internet—which can be unsafe—use these verified methods to restore the file: Check Antivirus Quarantine : Open your antivirus or Windows Defender Protection History steam_api.dll is listed as a blocked item, choose to it and add the game's installation folder to your Exclusions Verify Integrity (Official Steam Version) Steam Library and right-click Tomb Raider Properties Installed Files Local Files

The best and safest way to fix this is to let Steam automatically restore the authentic file for you. Recommended Fix: Verify Game Integrity

and your graphics drivers.

If this file is missing, outdated, or corrupted, the game physically cannot talk to Steam. Hence, the crash.