“Indiana Jones and the Great Circle” is a new role playing game (RPG) featuring an original adventure for the whip-cracking archaeologist, set between the films “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “The Last Crusade.” When a relic is stolen from under Indy’s nose, he sets off on another globe-trotting escapade that pits him against ancient riddles, evil Nazis, and powers beyond comprehension. 

The game is paced and plays like an 80s film, meaning it’s a bit slower than some gamers might expect. This is, unfortunately, reflected in the controls, which oftentimes feel sluggish. Indy moves like a real person rather than with the snappy precision of modern games. When relying on fists or a gun’s aim, this can be frustrating. He also moves like a snail when climbing. It’s still a satisfying gameplay experience which forces players to properly manage resources like bandages and bullets when sneaking around Nazi compounds. 

We get to explore wide settings and beautiful scenery packed with mysteries and multiple ways to pursue goals. But the branching level design is a double-edged sword. More than once I felt like I was doing something wrong or got somewhere in an unintended way. There’s a sense of freedom that really makes every stage feel like an adventure, but it’s frequently accompanied by a lack of direction, which gets exhausting before long. Still, each stage of the game is well thought-out, loaded with satisfying but somewhat simple puzzles and collectibles that serve a purpose rather than just existing to lengthen playtime. 

This story is a perfect installment in the “Indiana Jones” series. It’s much closer in tone and content to the original trilogy than the disappointing newer films. They also nailed Indiana as a character. He isn’t played by Harrison Ford, but his voice, characterization and even his mannerisms are a near-perfect portrayal. The rest of the main cast is also filled with memorable characters, particularly the eccentric villain, Emmerich Voss. 

“Indiana Jones and the Great Circle” is a return to form for the franchise, featuring the iconic character at his tomb-raiding Nazi-bashing best. It often feels like a better movie than a game but amounts to a balanced experience. As a movie, it’s a 5/5. As a game, an average 3/5. Altogether, it’s a strong 4/5.