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Set in 1937, this first-person, single-player experience follows Indiana Jones as he races to stop sinister forces from uncovering the ancient power of the mysterious Great Circle. With globe-trotting intrigue, pulse-pounding action, and puzzles that test your wits, this is a journey packed with discovery, threats, and the timeless charisma of cinema’s most beloved archaeologist.
It’s almost immediately clear that the heart of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle lies in its story, which feels like stepping into one of Indy’s cinematic adventures. Our hero’s journey begins in a dense, perilous jungle, accompanied by the famous, rousing theme — a perfect introduction to the treasure-hunting escapades ahead. The narrative weaves through many exotic and iconic locations, such as the pyramids of Giza, Vatican City (with St. Peter’s Basilica as a literal highlight), Peru, Thailand, China, and the snowy Himalayan mountains, among others. Each locale represents a rich tapestry of history, mystery, and danger, forming one of the game’s strongest assets.
An interactive movie
The plot of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle masterfully captures the tension of World War II, with Indy pitted against familiar enemies — fascist Nazis and rival treasure hunters. Supporting characters add depth: Marcus Brody provides comic relief and wisdom, while Gina’s intriguing backstory enriches the emotional experience. The game’s cutscenes, flashbacks, and transitions between locations give it the feel of an interactive movie, drawing players into a narrative brimming with cultural and geopolitical conflicts set in a well-fleshed-out world.
Even the game’s mechanics offer the same mix of nostalgic simplicity and thoughtful immersion. Controlling Indy in the first person gives players a grounded perspective on his dangerous world, whether whipping across chasms or stealthily maneuvering past enemies. His ever-reliable bullwhip serves as a versatile tool, from combat to traversal, while manual lock-picking and consuming bread for health recovery provide that essential old-fashioned charm.
Combat, focused on parry-based punching, can occasionally feel repetitive. Stealth sequences — crouching and hiding bodies while avoiding detection — add tension, but might frustrate those seeking fast-paced action. Luckily, the linear progression is complemented by a sense of freedom in tackling every challenge. Whether players choose stealth, or action-oriented combat utilizing melee or gunplay, the gameplay offers enough variety to keep them engaged. This is partly due to the inclusion of unlockable abilities, such as pulling enemies toward you with the whip (winks at Mortal Kombat’s Scorpion). However, some other gameplay elements feel less original and slightly outdated.
Mesmerizing details
Visually, The Great Circle strikes a balance between stylized charm and atmospheric detail. The sepia-toned aesthetic is a delightful homage to the film series, and the lush, sprawling environments — from shadowy caves to bright, bustling streets — feel vibrant and packed with secrets and peril. Locations like the Sukhothai temples in Thailand or the Ziggurat of Ur in Iraq, are truly mesmerizing.
True, cutscene transitions can be glitchy, and facial animations sometimes verge on the uncanny, disrupting the otherwise immersive experience. Despite these hiccups, the character portraits, including iconic appearances like Mussolini, Father Ventura, and Herr Voss, are remarkably convincing and breathe life into Indy’s world.
The score, reminiscent of John Williams’ iconic compositions, enhances every moment, from the quiet suspense of exploring dark ruins to the exhilarating swing of Indy’s whip. Voice acting deserves special mention: Troy Baker expertly captures Indy’s dry wit and seriousness, blending seamlessly with his sidekicks.
Sound effects — whether the crunch of footsteps on ancient stone or the faint skittering of insects in dimly lit caverns — add a layer of immersion that an adventure game of this caliber craves. Even the crack of the bullwhip and the echo of Latin phrases during the many puzzles evoke a sense of authenticity that fans of the series will adore.
Puzzle-Packed Adventure
And yes, fans of Indy’s intellect and adventurous spirit will be thrilled with the game’s puzzles. These challenges are thoughtfully integrated into the narrative, requiring players to decipher inscriptions, photograph monuments for hints, and combine multiple items to progress. Some puzzles can be tough and demand trial and error, but their complexity adds to the satisfaction of solving them. Side activities, such as earning money for items or completing fetch-like quests, provide small distractions as well, but occasionally feel like padding in an adventure that truly revolves around the main quest.
In conclusion, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle confidently steps into the shoes of its legendary protagonist, blending classic elements with modern gameplay to deliver a compelling mix of action, adventure, and puzzles that fans of the franchise will appreciate. Despite its quirks, the game is a heartfelt love letter to the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones, filled with thrilling moments, clever references, and nostalgic nods to his legacy. It’s a journey worth taking – a reminder that sometimes, the quest is just as rewarding as the treasure.
Reviewed on PC.
Download code provided by the publisher and PR agency.
