Indiana Jones and the Great Circle successfully captures nearly everything that makes the Indiana Jones franchise legendary, from the title card and location fonts to Harrison Ford’s iconic finger waggle. However, its triumphs extend beyond its faithfulness to the finer details of the films. With a host of gorgeous and intricately detailed levels, satisfying combat centered on powerful haymakers, and a focus on slow-paced exploration, platforming, and puzzle solving (interspersed with high-voltage action sequences), The Great Circle delivers an irresistible and immersive global treasure hunt for Indiana Jones fans who’ve felt underserved by recent films like The Dial of Destiny and Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.
The game differentiates itself from the increasingly similar third-person action games of the past decade by opting for a classic first-person perspective, drawing inspiration from games like The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay. While its basic stealth systems can feel a bit lackluster at times, The Great Circle — when played as intended — ranks among the best Indiana Jones games ever made, and its story feels more like Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade than anything that’s followed. Some may argue that it belongs in a museum, but museums are for dusty relics you shouldn’t touch. The Great Circle doesn’t belong in a museum; it belongs on your hard drive, waiting to be played and cherished.
Exploration and Stunning Environments
Every location in The Great Circle is a visual marvel. From the ornate architecture of Italy to the sprawling ancient ruins beneath Egypt’s Great Pyramids, and even the jungle-covered temples of Thailand, the environments are rich with detail and atmosphere. The first-person perspective adds to the sense of immersion, letting players truly feel the grandeur of Indy’s world. Puzzle-solving and platforming are regular features, with a few brain-teasers that will leave you feeling smug when you crack them.
Combat and High-Stakes Action
Combat in The Great Circle is satisfying, with punchy, jaw-breaking blows that make every encounter feel impactful. While stealth mechanics are relatively basic, they don’t detract from the excitement of the action-packed moments scattered throughout the game. These moments of intensity provide a welcome contrast to the more methodical exploration and puzzle-solving.
Why The Great Circle is a Must-Play for Indiana Jones Fans
The Great Circle is a stunning blend of action, adventure, and immersive storytelling. It successfully recaptures the magic of the Indiana Jones films, offering fans an exciting new adventure without relying on the same old formulas. While some may argue that it’s a relic of the past, the truth is that this game is best experienced firsthand. It doesn’t belong in a museum — it belongs on your hard drive, where it can be enjoyed again and again.