In the past week, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has been showered with praise for its authenticity. While “authenticity” can be a catch-all term, in this case, it truly captures what the game accomplishes so well.
Every mechanic and feature in the game resonates with the essence of the movie franchise it draws from. The game masterfully replicates the atmosphere, from the flickering torchlight in tombs to the distinct snap of Indy’s whip and the impact of his punches landing on Nazi soldiers. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle encapsulates the adventure film magic while also embracing a fundamental element that the franchise sometimes overlooks.
The game thoughtfully incorporates companions, which are often a crucial but understated part of the series. While Indy is undoubtedly the central figure, his journeys are rarely solo endeavors. In Raiders of the Lost Ark, he joins forces with Marion Ravenwood and Sallah; in Temple of Doom, he is accompanied by Willie Scott and Short Round, while The Last Crusade teams him with Sean Connery as his father. Even in the divisive Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and Dial of Destiny, companions play key roles, from the return of Marion and the introduction of Mutt to Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Helena.
These companions bring vital layers to the stories. They heighten the stakes and add emotional depth, as Indy’s concern for their wellbeing is palpable.
In Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, this often-overlooked aspect is immediately highlighted. As players step into the Vatican, they are introduced to Antonio, a priest with whom Indy shares a history dating back nearly two decades to the World War I battlefields. Antonio acts as both a guide and mentor in the early stages, quickly establishing a connection with players. Although his presence is brief, his engaging personality and backstory, tied closely to Indy, make him a standout companion.
Gina Lombardi, however, leaves an even more lasting impression. First encountered as a nun in the Vatican, Gina is on a personal quest to find her missing sister, an archaeologist kidnapped by Nazis. Her role as an investigative journalist adds layers to her character, deepening the plot’s stakes with personal motivation. Throughout the game, Gina’s complexity unfolds, making her more than just a sidekick.
Gina’s strengths aren’t limited to her story. She’s quite handy in gameplay scenarios: adept at lock-picking, helpful with puzzle hints, and not afraid to join a fistfight. Alessandra Mastronardi’s portrayal of Gina adds the final touch that cements her as one of the most compelling companions in the Indiana Jones universe.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle offers an exhilarating journey, set amid the events of Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade. Set in 1937, it pits players against dark forces seeking ancient power, with only Indiana Jones standing in their way. Developed by MachineGames under the guidance of renowned designer Todd Howard, this single-player adventure is a delight for fans eager to dive back into the beloved franchise.
