10 Video Games Better Than The Sum Of Their Parts

A one sentence review of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle would read, "Brain-dead combat, rubbish stealth, incredibly basic platforming - great game."

It's rare to play something that gets so many fundamentals wrong, yet absolutely nails what it sets out to do. Even the imperfections feel like they're paying homage to one of cinema's most ramshackle heroes. After all, what could be more Indy than constantly teetering on the brink of disaster only to somehow pull through?

For every irritating stealth section or button-mashing brawl, The Great Circle pulls you back in with some trademark Indy magic. Most obviously, developers MachineHead Games chose an excellent selection of locations for Indiana's latest globe-trotting jaunt. From the corridors of the Vatican to the jungles of Siam, it's a treat to just soak in the sights as you explore whichever corner of the globe Jones' journey takes him.

Fortunately, the developers also made sure the player has plenty to do other than play virtual tourist. There are a bevy of collectables, satisfyingly difficult puzzles and excellently-written sidequests to stumble on. The latter in particular are aided by another of the game's saving graces -  the beautifully acted and directed cut-scenes, held together by Troy Baker's Harrison Ford-approved performance as the titular grave-robber.

As a game, the Great Circle is fundamentally flawed. As an experience, it's as striking and unforgettable as one of its title character's smirking grins (and just as likely to melt your heart a little).