The upcoming Indiana Jones and the Great Circle game, launching on Xbox and PC on December 9th, promises a grand adventure for players. In a recent interview with MinnMax, Creative Director Axel Torvenius revealed that Great Circle will be “by far the biggest and longest game that MachineGames has ever done.” While he didn’t specify whether this refers to the main campaign or includes side quests, it certainly suggests a substantial experience.
Game length isn’t always synonymous with quality, as many overly long games can attest. However, considering the investment gamers make, knowing a game offers significant playtime is often a deciding factor. Hopefully, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will keep players captivated throughout its campaign and beyond.
Indiana Jones looking out over a temple
While the game’s length was a major talking point in the MinnMax interview, the developers also shared other key details. They discussed the game’s combat and weaponry, mentioning that while they considered upgradable whips, the idea was ultimately scrapped. Indy will have access to various firearms, but ammunition will be scarce. This aligns with previous previews emphasizing stealth over gunplay, where using guns can have significant consequences.
Beyond guns and his iconic whip, Indy will utilize a camera throughout his adventure. The developers revealed that photos taken in-game will appear in Indy’s notebook, rather than generic placeholders. Design Director Jens Andersson admitted this feature was unexpectedly demanding, “almost to the point that we regret it.” While photography is a key element, there’s no confirmation of a dedicated photo mode, though some developers have added such features post-launch.
The interview offered further insights into Indiana Jones and the Great Circle‘s gameplay mechanics. The developers emphasized the importance of player choice, allowing for multiple approaches to challenges. Whether through stealth, combat, or puzzle-solving, players can tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle. This emphasis on player agency promises a dynamic and engaging adventure. They also touched upon the game’s narrative, highlighting the rich storytelling and character development players can expect. Drawing inspiration from classic Indiana Jones adventures, the game aims to deliver a compelling narrative that captures the spirit of the franchise.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is shaping up to be a major release for Xbox, concluding the year on a high note. MachineGames has a strong track record with franchises like Wolfenstein, Quake, and Doom. Whether Indiana Jones will join the ranks of their best work remains to be seen.
Do you prefer longer video games? Does the promised length of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle make you more inclined to purchase it? Share your thoughts on Twitter @Marcdachamp, Bluesky @Marcdachamp, or Instagram @Dachampgaming!
