2024 was an interesting year for Xbox. They started off as the bane of many gamers, with one of the largest layoffs in tech history and the closure of some fan-favorite studios—despite praising one studio’s recent release, which ultimately didn’t make much money. Coupled with their attempts at launching third-party releases, many began questioning why anyone should buy an Xbox when everything would eventually be available on PlayStation. Microsoft desperately needed a win. They had some success with Diablo 4 and Black Ops 6, but they needed something to showcase why buying an Xbox right now was worth it. Finally, at the tail end of the year, they delivered a compelling argument with Indiana Jones and The Great Circle—a game that will surely make a last-minute finish at the top of many Game of the Year lists, including mine.
The game was developed by MachineGames, the studio that rebooted the Wolfenstein series in 2014 with The New Order. This is their first release since the disastrous Wolfenstein: Youngblood in 2019, so there was understandable concern about which version of MachineGames we’d get. Additionally, anything tied to Disney—especially Lucasfilm—these days often meets polarized reactions. It was, therefore, a shock to everyone, including me, when The Great Circle not only exceeded expectations but also became the best Indiana Jones game since Fate of Atlantis in the 1990s and the best Indiana Jones story since The Last Crusade in 1989.
From the opening sequence, The Great Circle captures the spirit of Indiana Jones like no game before it. Set in 1949, the story follows an older but still adventurous Indy on a globe-trotting quest to uncover the secrets of the titular “Great Circle,” an ancient artifact said to hold the key to humanity’s origins. Along the way, you’ll encounter classic series staples: Nazis as antagonists, ancient, booby-trapped ruins, and an array of colorful supporting characters. The narrative strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. Fans of the films will appreciate the callbacks to iconic moments, while newcomers can enjoy a fresh story that doesn’t rely heavily on past lore. One standout moment for me came during a fight when I punched a Nazi off a ledge, triggering the Wilhelm scream. I paused the game and laughed with a dumb smile on my face. Harrison Ford’s likeness and voice are expertly captured, with veteran voice actor Troy Baker delivering an incredible performance. The script gives Indy plenty of sharp wit and heartwarming moments, reminding us why he’s such an enduring character.
MachineGames has outdone itself, delivering gameplay that feels like a blend of Deus Ex, Uncharted, Wolfenstein, and Thief while maintaining its own unique identity. Exploration is at the heart of the experience, with intricate puzzle-solving sequences that challenge your logic and attention to detail. From deciphering ancient texts to aligning massive stone mechanisms, the puzzles are satisfying without being overly obtuse. Combat is equally compelling. Indy isn’t a soldier, and the gameplay reflects that. You’ll often rely on improvisation—using your whip to disarm enemies or throwing objects in the environment to gain the upper hand. Gunplay is present but limited, encouraging you to think creatively instead of treating every encounter as a shootout. The whip mechanics deserve special praise. It’s not just a combat tool; it’s integral to traversal and puzzle-solving. Swinging across chasms, pulling levers from a distance, and even tripping up enemies with the whip feels intuitive and deeply satisfying.
This is easily the best-looking Xbox game I’ve played in years. Powered by the studio’s own take on id Software’s id Tech engine, Motor, the game boasts some of the most detailed environments in gaming. Every location feels alive and meticulously crafted, from the dense jungles of South America to the bustling streets of post-war Berlin. Lighting and weather effects further enhance immersion, making each setting feel like a living, breathing part of Indy’s world. The character animations are incredibly lifelike, from Indy’s stumbles after near misses to the subtle expressions that convey his thoughts and emotions. Supporting characters, including new faces and a few returning favorites, are equally well-realized, with standout voice performances across the board. The music, composed by Gordy Haab, blends John Williams’ iconic themes with new compositions that perfectly complement the game’s tone. From adrenaline-pumping battle themes to haunting melodies in ancient ruins, the score elevates every moment.
The game isn’t without its flaws. I encountered occasional technical glitches, such as texture pop-ins and characters repeating lines minutes after they were spoken. While these moments broke immersion briefly, they were never deal-breakers. I also want to mention the game’s cinematic mode, which formats the entire experience in the style of the classic films. I chose this option and quickly realized this was the original aspect ratio the game was designed for—it better frames the cutscenes and adds a genuine “you’re playing a movie” feel. I highly recommend this option for the best experience.
Indiana Jones and The Great Circle is more than just a great game; it’s a triumph for Xbox and MachineGames. It’s the kind of exclusive that gives players a reason to invest in the platform, showcasing the power of the hardware while delivering an unforgettable experience. For MachineGames, it’s a well-deserved redemption after the misstep of Wolfenstein: Youngblood. For fans of Indiana Jones, this is the game you’ve been waiting for—a love letter to the franchise that captures everything that makes it special. And for newcomers, it’s an excellent starting point, offering an adventure that stands tall among the best in gaming. In a year filled with incredible titles, The Great Circle is a shining example of what happens when a talented studio is given the time, resources, and creative freedom to bring a beloved character to life. Whether you’re a longtime Indiana Jones fan or just looking for your next great adventure, this is a game you don’t want to miss.
Score: 9 out of 10
Reviewed on Xbox Series X