Indy Embraces Fisticuffs in "Indiana Jones and the Great Circle"

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

MachineGames and Bethesda's upcoming Indiana Jones game, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, will prioritize hand-to-hand combat and stealth over gunplay, according to the development team. In an interview with PC Gamer, design director Jens Andersson and creative director Axel Torvenius emphasized the game's departure from typical shooter mechanics.

"Indiana Jones isn't a gunslinger," Andersson stated, highlighting the game's focus on melee combat. The team drew inspiration from their work on Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher Bay, adapting the melee system to fit Indy's unique fighting style. Players will utilize improvised weapons, from everyday objects like pots and pans to more unexpected items, creating a humorous and unpredictable combat experience.

Beyond combat, exploration and puzzle-solving are key elements. The game blends linear and open environments, drawing parallels to the Wolfenstein series. Larger areas offer immersive sim-style gameplay, allowing players multiple approaches to challenges. Stealth plays a significant role, incorporating both classic infiltration and a novel "social stealth" mechanic, where players can acquire disguises to blend into their surroundings and access restricted zones.

In a previous interview with Inverse, game director Jerk Gustafsson confirmed the deliberate downplaying of gunplay. The team concentrated on challenging aspects like hand-to-hand combat, navigation, and puzzle design. The game will feature a range of puzzles, from straightforward to exceptionally challenging, with difficult puzzles designed as optional content to maintain accessibility. The developers aimed to craft a unique Indiana Jones experience prioritizing the character's resourceful nature and problem-solving skills.