MachineGames, known for creating the Wolfenstein series, is now shifting gears to develop a new game under the Xbox umbrella: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. The game is set between the films Raiders of the Lost Ark and the Last Crusade, where a break-in occurs at Marshall College and Indiana Jones discovers that his rival archeologist, Emerick Voss, has been plundering sites worldwide to find powerful relics. It is revealed that Voss is working for Nazi Germany, making the game feel like a genuine new adventure for the Indiana Jones franchise.
One of the highlights of the gameplay shown in the preview is the first-person style that MachineGames is known for, which perfectly suits the Indiana Jones character. The fist fights in the game are slower-paced and more methodical than expected, adding to the immersive experience. Jones can engage in 1vs1 fights, using his fists and grabbing items like rolling pins to defeat opponents. The realistic approach to combat is reminiscent of games like Kingdom Come: Deliverance.
Of course, Indiana Jones wouldn’t be complete without his trusty whip. In the game, the whip serves multiple purposes. Jones can use it to hit enemies and grab items from a short distance. It also functions as a grappling hook, allowing him to traverse small gaps or find alternative paths in dungeons. The whip is also integral to solving puzzles and infiltrating restricted areas by disguising himself as a clerical pastor, similar to the Hitman games.
The game offers a lot of exploration and encourages players to go off the main path to discover collectibles and little adventures. By doing so, players can earn Adventure Points, which help Jones learn new abilities. One such ability is called True Grit, which allows him to withstand a fatal blow.
Overall, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle promises to be an immersive and enjoyable experience. The gameplay showcased in the preview demonstrates MachineGames’ ability to take their first-person pedigree and storytelling skills to the next level. With the combination of exciting adventures, cinematic set pieces, and the familiar charm of the Indiana Jones franchise, this game has the potential to be a great addition to Xbox’s lineup.
