Indiana Jones Embraces Melee Combat in 'Great Circle'

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny: A Focus on Melee Combat and Stealth

MachineGames and Bethesda's upcoming Indiana Jones title, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, will prioritize hand-to-hand combat and stealth over gunfights, according to the development team. This design choice, revealed in an exclusive interview with PC Gamer, reflects the character's established persona.

"Indiana Jones isn't a gunslinger," explained design director Jens Andersson. "Hand-to-hand combat makes total sense." The game will draw inspiration from the melee combat in Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher Bay, but adapted to fit Indy's unique style. Players will utilize improvised weapons, from everyday objects like pots and pans to more unusual items, creating a humorous and inventive combat system.

Beyond combat, exploration and puzzle-solving will be central to the gameplay. The game will blend linear and open environments, similar to the Wolfenstein series, offering both structured paths and expansive areas ripe for exploration. Some areas will feature immersive sim-like elements, allowing players agency in how they approach challenges.

Stealth will play a significant role, incorporating traditional infiltration and a novel "social stealth" mechanic. Players can find and equip disguises to blend in and access restricted areas, adding another layer of strategic depth to gameplay.

Gunplay, while present, will be a secondary element. Game director Jerk Gustafsson previously stated that the team intentionally minimized the focus on shooting, prioritizing other gameplay aspects. The game will feature a range of challenging puzzles, with some particularly difficult ones offered as optional content to maintain accessibility. The overall experience aims to capture the essence of Indiana Jones's adventurous spirit, emphasizing clever problem-solving and resourceful improvisation over relentless gun battles.