5 incredible action-adventure games to play while waiting for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

Action-adventure games are a blend of two prominent genres in gaming. These titles combine the excitement of exploring exotic locales with the intensity of high-stakes action setpieces. One of the most iconic action-adventure characters of all time, Indiana Jones, is set to return to the playable screen 20 years after his last mainline adventure.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is scheduled for release on December 9, 2024. MachineGames' collaborative venture with LucasFilm Games aims to capture the spirit of globe-trotting escapades that made the Indiana Jones films so beloved.

While players wait to step into the boots of the legendary archaeologist, here are a few action-adventure games that offer a similar thrill.

Note: This article is purely subjective and reflects the writer's opinions.

---

5 action-adventure games to check out while waiting for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

1) Tomb Raider (2013)

A still from Tomb Raider (2013) (Image via Crystal Dynamics || Feral Interactive)

If you like action-adventure games that channel the essence of Indiana Jones, Tomb Raider, released in 2013, is a must-play. This (second) reboot of the classic series reimagines Lara Croft's origins, incorporating more survival mechanics with exploration and combat. The game restricts the protagonist's use of firearms and gives her a primitive bow instead.

The story follows Lara's expedition to Yamatai Island set in the Bermuda Triangle, as she tries to uncover information about the region's tribe. As she does this, the archaeologist must survive nature's perils while also fending off a dangerous cult called the Solarii Brotherhood.

Tomb Raider (2013) is the perfect game to sink into if you're looking for a darker, more survival-driven action-adventure experience.

---

2) Enslaved: Odyssey to the West

A still from Enslaved: Odyssey to the West (Image via BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment)

When it comes to action-adventure media, very few franchises can match the mythos of Journey to the West. Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, developed by Hellblade fame Ninja Theory, brings the novel's action into a post-apocalyptic world.

The story follows Monkey, who must help a girl named Trip get home. The title features rich combat and platforming gameplay, where Monkey usually does the heavy lifting, while Trip uses her technological expertise to aid him.

Players who like action-adventure games set in a post-apocalyptic mythological world should check out Enslaved: Odyssey to the West.

---

3) Uncharted 4: A Thief's End

A still from Uncharted 4: A Thief's End (Image via Sony Interactive Entertainment)

If you prefer action-adventure games with cinematic spectacle and jaw-dropping setpieces, the Uncharted series has got it in droves. Although all the entries in the series are excellent installments that raise the bar for titles in the genre, its fourth installment, A Thief's End, pushed the IP to its limits.

A Thief's End pushes the Uncharted franchise to new heights, featuring incredible visuals, intense combat, and a gripping narrative. Players step into the shoes of treasure hunter Nathan Drake as he embarks on a globe-trotting adventure full of twists and explosive action.

If you like action-adventure games with top-tier production values, unforgettable setpieces, and a compelling story, you will not be disappointed by A Thief's End.

---

4) Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

A still from Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake (Image via Ubisoft)

The Prince of Persia series is renowned for its stunning portrayal of Arabian folklore, with The Sands of Time being a standout entry. Set in the mythical land of Azad, the game follows an unnamed prince who tries to fix his mistakes after being tricked into releasing the Sands of Time, which transforms the kingdom's inhabitants into horrific monsters.

The Sands of Time combines platforming, puzzle-solving, and combat with the groundbreaking ability to rewind time. This encourages players to experiment with various techniques, allowing them a restricted amount of chances to undo their mistakes.

If you like action-adventure games inspired by Arabian folklore, featuring time manipulation mechanics and immersive exploration, you can buy The Sands of Time without hesitation.

---

5) Wolfenstein: The New Order

A still from Wolfenstein: The New Order (Image via Bethesda Softworks)

The Wolfenstein franchise offers a unique twist on the action-adventure genre, thanks to its alternate reality setting where the Nazis won World War II.

Wolfenstein: The New Order, developed by MachineGames, follows protagonist William "B.J." Blazkowicz as he awakens from a 14-year coma to find a world ruled by a brutal Nazi regime. Upon its release, the game was praised for its gripping narrative, visceral first-person combat, memorable characters, and striking art style.

Wolfenstein: The New Order is perfect for those who like action-adventure games with a dark, alternate history twist and plenty of bad guys to take down.