MachineGames and Bethesda took a considerable risk with the development of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. However, it seems that the most famous archaeologist still has a future in video games…

As the months pass, what we learn about Indiana Jones and the Great Circle becomes increasingly divisive. The upcoming video game by MachineGames already broke with conventions thanks to the first gameplay trailer, thanks to the first-person view, since very few studios would dare to “hide” the 3D model of such an iconic protagonist. An Xbox-exclusive game on the console for the time being was one of the big cover stories at this year’s GamesCom, with an announcement date of December 9. Furthermore, with the announcement that it will be released on PlayStation 5 next year, at a date yet to be determined.

The resourceful Indiana Jones

The GC trailer (see at the end of this article) reveals several things, such as the use of the camera, which is crucial in exploring and discovering hidden details. The art team also drew inspiration from photographs of early explorers of temples and ancient civilizations, such as the temples of Sukhothai in Thailand.

This is followed by a gameplay cut-scene that introduces a lot of new stuff. The classic scene of Indy carrying an idol off a pedestal as it all comes tumbling down makes an appearance. We can also see a moment when we have to escape from an Egyptian temple before the sand buries us under it.

In addition to the specific actions, the presence of the endurance bar, which is crucial for the gameplay and determines our sprint time, stands out. However, when it comes to highlighting the eye-catching details and new mechanics, we have to talk about the disguises that can be used to remain unnoticed in enemy areas.

The whip is present in the recordings. There is a moment when the main character uses a spear to later use it as a handhold to swing from, and another when he uses it to unclog a clogged water pipe.

We can also use this tool in combat, along with the pistol and Indy’s fist. The developers mention the concept of “outsmart”, something like outsmarting your opponents. This refers to distraction or stealth, but the video presents the possibilities of an interactive environment. Unsurprisingly, the clip ends with the protagonist hitting an enemy with a rolling pin.

In Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, progress is determined by so-called “adventure points”.

We have not yet seen the effect of these, but we do know that these abilities will be unlocked with the help of magazines/books. Points will be collected for things like taking pictures of landmarks, visiting locations or completing missions. Yes, there will be parts where you can freely explore the world and complete side quests.

A combination of discovery and investigation

Some press members were able to try out a short demo of the game even before GamesCom. This one focused on the Egyptian region and perfectly showcased what the gameplay of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle would be like. And it all starts with our protagonist, accompanied by Gina, finding himself in front of a closed door, the mechanism of which we do not know.

Exploring the area, we see the diary of an archaeologist who mentions a medallion found there, which the Nazis looted. The mission is clear: get it back! To do this, Indy puts on a worker’s disguise, with which he manages to get into a tent where the enemy is playing cards. While bringing them drinks so as not to arouse suspicion, he manages to find the locket and steal it unnoticed.

The locket opens the door, and the pair enter a secret chamber. This is where the entire Indiana Jones repertoire comes to the fore, including using a whip to avoid a spike trap, deciphering a mural, or a mirror puzzle that allows the archaeologist to retrieve a seemingly vital golden mask.

The question is whether the video game will have enough momentum to bring the franchise that has seen better days back into the public consciousness. Of course, the latest film could hardly get back the ambitious 300 million-dollar budget. MachineGames knows a lot about making good video games. And this game can be decisive not only for the franchise but also for the company’s future…

Source: YouTube