History of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle in Timeline

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is a forthcoming action-adventure video game slated for release in 2024. Developed by MachineGames and published by Bethesda Softworks, the game is inspired by the Indiana Jones film series. It is set to feature an original narrative that takes place between the classic films Raiders of the Lost Ark and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Set in 1937, players will follow the iconic archaeologist Indiana Jones as he tries to prevent various factions from exploiting the mysterious power associated with the Great Circle. This power is linked to several enigmatic sites worldwide that form a perfect circle on a map. The game will take players to various real-world locations, including Peru, Connecticut, Vatican City, Thailand, Egypt, Shanghai, and the Himalayas, promising a diverse and adventurous gaming experience.

2009: Initial Game Pitch

In 2009, Todd Howard pitched the idea for an Indiana Jones game to George Lucas. However, the project did not proceed due to a lack of resources at Bethesda and disagreements over publishing roles between Bethesda and Lucasfilm.

January 12, 2021: Video Game Announcement

On January 12, 2021, Lucasfilm Games and Bethesda Softworks announced a new Indiana Jones video game in development by MachineGames. Todd Howard serves as the executive producer. The game will be inspired by the battle against Nazis, reminiscent of MachineGames' Wolfenstein series, and will draw on Howard's passion for the Indiana Jones franchise.

January 2021: Game Development Announcement

In January 2021, Bethesda and MachineGames announced the development of 'Indiana Jones and the Great Circle', in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games. The game is directed by Jerk Gustafsson, with music by Gordy Haab, and features Troy Baker voicing the main character, Indiana Jones. Todd Howard conceived the story and serves as executive producer. This event marked the beginning of the game's creation phase.

March 2021: Microsoft Acquires ZeniMax Media

In March 2021, Microsoft completed its acquisition of ZeniMax Media, which included ownership of Bethesda Softworks and MachineGames. This acquisition led to an amendment in the original contract between Bethesda and Lucasfilm's parent company Disney, changing the game's release plans to exclude the PlayStation 5 version, justifying exclusivity to Xbox Series X/S and Windows platforms.

January 18, 2024: Gameplay Reveal

On January 18, 2024, Microsoft Gaming's Xbox Developer_Direct presentation unveiled the title, story details, and first gameplay footage of 'Indiana Jones and the Great Circle'. The game features a first-person perspective, which sparked mixed reactions, and continues MachineGames' tradition of first-person games.

February 2024: Consideration of PlayStation 5 Version of The Great Circle

By February 2024, Bethesda internally deliberated on releasing a PlayStation 5 version of 'The Great Circle' after initially planning it as an Xbox exclusive. This consideration came as Microsoft Gaming was preparing to launch its first-party titles on various platforms beyond Xbox, marking a shift towards a more inclusive strategy.

August 2024: Development of PlayStation 5 Version Confirmed

In August 2024, Bethesda confirmed the development of a PlayStation 5 version of 'The Great Circle.' This decision was influenced by the success of previous Xbox titles that launched on PlayStation and Nintendo systems earlier in 2024, and the need to deliver returns and foster interest in their franchises while expanding the Xbox ecosystem.

December 6, 2024: Early Access Release

The Premium and Collector's Editions of 'Indiana Jones and the Great Circle' offer a 3-day early access period starting December 6, 2024. These editions include additional content such as extra outfits, a story expansion, and physical collectibles, enhancing the gaming experience for dedicated fans.

December 9, 2024: Scheduled Game Release

'Indiana Jones and the Great Circle' is set to release on December 9, 2024, for Windows and Xbox Series X/S. This action-adventure game is highly anticipated, having received generally positive reviews, and is considered the highest-rated Indiana Jones video game since 'Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis'.

2025: PlayStation 5 Version Release

A PlayStation 5 version of 'Indiana Jones and the Great Circle' is scheduled for release in 2025. This follows the game's initial release on Windows and Xbox Series X/S in December 2024, expanding its availability to more platforms and reaching a broader audience.