MachineGames, known for developing the modern Wolfenstein series, is venturing into new territory with their upcoming project, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. The game is set to be the studio’s most ambitious endeavor yet in terms of scope and gameplay length.
Creative director Axel Torvenius confirmed this in an interview with MinnMax, noting that The Great Circle will significantly surpass the length of previous titles like Wolfenstein: The New Order and Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus, which typically range from 11 to 17 hours depending on player choices.
The expanded length of The Great Circle is partly due to its emphasis on puzzles and exploration, elements not as central in MachineGames’ earlier, more action-focused titles. While Torvenius refrained from providing an exact hour count for gameplay, the shift to a slower-paced, adventure-driven experience suggests it will offer more extensive content for players to engage with. This aligns with the studio’s goal to create a true Indiana Jones experience, blending exploration with intellectual problem-solving.
The game also boasts an impressive amount of cinematic storytelling, featuring nearly four hours of cutscenes. This figure is on par with the non-interactive sequences in Wolfenstein 2, emphasizing the studio’s commitment to delivering a narrative-driven experience. These cutscenes aim to deepen the connection to the story and characters, complementing the immersive gameplay.
In terms of design philosophy, MachineGames is steering clear of gameplay pitfalls like instant fail stealth missions, which have marred other titles in the genre, such as Star Wars Outlaws. This decision reflects the team’s focus on ensuring a smooth and enjoyable player experience, emphasizing exploration and storytelling over frustrating mechanics. Fans will also be intrigued to learn that the game’s story has been in development for over 15 years, originally pitched by Bethesda’s Todd Howard in 2009.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle marks a significant leap for MachineGames, pushing the studio into new creative territory while maintaining their signature focus on immersive storytelling. As more details emerge, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a defining entry in the Indiana Jones gaming legacy. Fans eager for updates can explore the full MinnMax interview for additional insights into this ambitious project.
