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Disney Wants More Indy! The Smash Success of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Sparks Big Plans
December 29, 2024More whip-cracking adventures incoming, but when?
When Indiana Jones and the Great Circle dropped, few anticipated just how quickly it would swing into the hearts of gamers and onto Disney’s radar. The combination of first-person action, nostalgic nods to classic Indy adventures, and innovative gameplay mechanics made it a standout in a packed 2024 release lineup. Now, following its resounding success, Disney is reportedly dialling up Machine Games and Bethesda, eager for more Indiana Jones games to keep the adventure alive.
Table of Contents
Why The Great Circle Struck Gold
Machine Games and Bethesda didn’t just make another action game—they created an experience that felt authentically Indiana Jones. Players were immersed in thrilling tomb raids, intricate puzzles, and high-stakes battles against Nazis, all hallmarks of the franchise. The first-person perspective brought a fresh twist, allowing players to see the world through Indy’s eyes while staying true to the series’ adventurous spirit.
Moreover, the game’s narrative filled in gaps between the films, offering new stories without treading on well-trodden cinematic territory. It struck a balance between nostalgia for long-time fans and accessibility for newcomers. And with glowing reviews across the board, the game’s appeal transcended its core audience.
The Call Heard Around the Gaming World
According to insider Jez Corden from Windows Central, Disney has “picked up the phone” to discuss expanding Indy’s video game universe after The Great Circle’s launch. This revelation came during an episode of the Xbox Two podcast, weeks after the game’s release. It’s a clear sign that Disney sees the potential for Indiana Jones to become a flagship franchise in the gaming world, much like its dominance on the big screen.
Adding to the buzz, Lucasfilm Games vice president Douglas Reilly recently hinted at the team’s interest in exploring more Indy stories. “There’s a lot of space in between the films where we could tell more and more Indiana Jones stories,” Reilly said, underscoring the vast narrative potential for the legendary adventurer.
Crushing the Competition and Critics
While Indiana Jones and the Great Circle debuted amid tough competition, it quickly cemented its place as a blockbuster hit. Circana analyst Mat Piscatella revealed the game was the second best-selling title in North America during its first full release week, trailing only the juggernaut Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. This achievement is particularly impressive given that The Great Circle launched on Xbox Game Pass, which typically tempers physical and digital sales.
Critics were just as smitten. Reviews heaped praise on the game’s rich storytelling, seamless blend of action and puzzle-solving, and Troy Baker’s stellar performance as the voice of Indy. Even the legendary Harrison Ford, who famously declared no one else could play Indiana Jones, gave the game his blessing, calling Baker’s portrayal “great” in an interview. This endorsement alone speaks volumes about the game’s quality and its faithful homage to the iconic character.
A Future Full of Possibilities
With Disney reportedly eager for more, the possibilities for Indiana Jones in gaming are endless. From prequels to untold adventures in unexplored settings, the franchise could expand in myriad directions. Lucasfilm Games’ Douglas Reilly’s remarks suggest a willingness to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues, ensuring the stories stay fresh while honouring the franchise’s legacy.
Machine Games also has a history of creating gripping narratives, as seen in its Wolfenstein series. Fans are hopeful the studio will not only continue Indiana Jones but also conclude its acclaimed anti-Nazi saga with Wolfenstein 3.
Sales, Nostalgia, and the Disney Ecosystem
Disney’s interest in expanding Indiana Jones gaming is strategic. The franchise already has a massive built-in fanbase, and the success of The Great Circle proves there’s a thriving market for Indy stories beyond the silver screen. The synergy between the games and Disney’s broader ecosystem—including potential tie-ins with theme parks, merchandise, and streaming—only amplifies the value of further investment in Indy.
Moreover, the game’s launch on Xbox Game Pass demonstrates how such platforms can drive engagement and sales without cannibalizing traditional purchasing models. It’s a formula that could be replicated for future entries, maximizing reach and profitability.
What Comes Next?
As Disney explores the potential for more Indiana Jones games, the ball is firmly in Machine Games’ court. Whether they choose to continue Indy’s adventures, explore spin-offs, or craft entirely new stories within the universe, the studio has proven it has the chops to deliver.
While games are fun, it’s highly important to note that there’s more to life than sitting countless hours playing video games – there’s a purpose and more to life; seek out that purpose more often!
