Focusing on Character Growth in The Great Circle
The upcoming game The Great Circle aims to offer players a dynamic portrayal of the iconic character Indiana Jones. Unlike creating a static depiction, MachineGames is focused on showcasing Indy’s personal growth between ‘Raiders’ and ‘The Last Crusade’. This evolution is not only reflected in the story but also in the gameplay mechanics.
“We have implemented various mechanisms to highlight this aspect,” explains Torvenius. “Players earn Adventure Points as they progress through the game, which can be used to unlock new skills from ability books. These skills are carefully designed to align with Indy’s character traits – from improving health and stamina to enhancing whip handling. This progression system gives players a sense of development.”
In addition to gameplay mechanics, visual cues also contribute to Indy’s evolution. His signature hat and jacket show signs of wear and tear as the game unfolds, mirroring his journey. The journal also becomes more detailed, with stains and scribbles marking the player’s progress. These elements work in harmony to ensure that players witness Indy’s growth throughout their gameplay experience.
Moreover, the decision to predominantly play the game in first-person adds another layer to Indy’s character development. While it may seem challenging to immerse players in a persona so iconic, MachineGames drew from their expertise in narrative-driven first-person games, such as the Wolfenstein series.
Emphasizing Storytelling in Game Development
Andersson emphasizes the importance of storytelling in character portrayal: “Our team has a long-standing commitment to emphasizing narrative in game development. Starting with a strong narrative foundation and delivering a compelling conclusion is integral to our process. We intertwine engaging storylines with solid gameplay mechanics to create a seamless experience for players.”
Torvenius adds, “Our approach is centered on crafting multidimensional characters that evolve throughout the game. By blending immersive cutscenes with captivating gameplay, we strive to create a memorable narrative that resonates with players. A well-crafted story withstands the test of time, driving our relentless pursuit of narrative excellence.”