Indiana Jones, the iconic adventurer, is known for his wit, resourcefulness, and occasional lethal force. But in the new game, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, there’s one creature he refuses to harm: dogs. This intriguing detail adds depth to Indy’s character and offers a fresh perspective on his adventurous spirit. This article delves into the lore behind Indy’s canine compassion and explores why this seemingly small detail makes a big impact.
While players can engage in combat and even eliminate human enemies, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle isn’t a purely action-oriented game. Stealth plays a crucial role, particularly when navigating enemy territory. Interestingly, dogs accompany some enemies on patrol, presenting a unique challenge for Indy. Unlike other foes, these canine companions are invulnerable to Indy’s attacks. Players can’t shoot or harm them; instead, they must resort to sneaking past or using distractions like whip cracks and gunshots to scare them away. Attempting to aim a weapon at a dog results in Indy lowering his gun, a clear indication of his reluctance to engage.
This deliberate design choice isn’t just a quirky gameplay mechanic; it’s rooted in Indiana Jones’ backstory and personality. Beyond the tonal dissonance of having the beloved hero mercilessly dispatching dogs, there’s a compelling narrative reason for Indy’s canine compassion.
As revealed in The Last Crusade, Indiana Jones’ real name is Henry Jones Jr., named after his father. The nickname “Indiana” originated from his cherished childhood dog, a detail that underscores the profound bond he shared with his canine companion. The book Indiana Jones and the Dinosaur Eggs further emphasizes this connection, revealing Indy’s enduring grief over the dog’s death and describing him as his best friend. This sentiment is echoed in The Great Circle when Indy declares himself “more of a dog person” after encountering a snake.
Given this deep affection for dogs, it’s only natural that Indiana Jones would refrain from harming them. This detail reflects a respectful understanding of his character and adds a layer of emotional depth to the gameplay. MachineGames, the studio behind the game, previously incorporated a poignant scene involving shooting a dog in Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. Their decision to protect dogs in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle demonstrates a thoughtful consideration of the character’s values. It’s also plausible that Disney and Lucasfilm, guardians of the Indiana Jones franchise, influenced this decision to preserve the character’s positive image.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle offers a rewarding experience for fans of the franchise, capturing the spirit of adventure and character depth that have made Indiana Jones an enduring icon. The game’s nuanced approach to combat, particularly Indy’s refusal to harm dogs, adds a layer of emotional resonance and further solidifies his status as a compassionate hero.
