Longtime gamers will remember an era when movie-based video games were synonymous with mediocrity. Hastily slapped together, pixelated messes that barely followed the plot of their cinematic source material were once the norm. Quality standards? Barely an afterthought. But Indiana Jones and the Great Circle flips that legacy on its head. Rather than relying on the fame of the Hollywood franchise, the game embraces its roots and skillfully transforms the iconic story into a gripping video game experience.
In this first-person adventure, players step into the well-worn boots of the legendary archaeologist himself. From exploring crumbling temples and sneaking through labyrinthine corridors to solving intricate puzzles, the game fully immerses you in the world of Indiana Jones. It’s not just about the action—though there’s plenty of that—but about evoking the spirit of discovery and danger that made the films classics.
Story-wise, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle stays true to its cinematic inspiration. Jones once again faces off against hordes of Nazis in a narrative that feels familiar yet fresh. Fortunately, the developers at MachineGames—best known for their work on Wolfenstein—are no strangers to such historical villains, bringing a seasoned touch to the game’s atmosphere and pacing.
With a runtime of roughly 15 hours, this is one of the longest games the studio has produced to date. That length comes not just from gameplay, but also from richly produced cutscenes that span several hours, adding cinematic weight to the unfolding story. The game’s level design is another standout feature: instead of pushing players in a straight line toward objectives, it encourages exploration and curiosity, true to the Indiana Jones spirit.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the movies or simply looking for an action-packed adventure, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle delivers an experience that respects its source material while standing firmly on its own as a high-quality game.