Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Breaks New Ground on Nintendo Switch 2
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has already proven itself as a critically acclaimed adventure game since its December 2024 release on Xbox Series X/S and PC. But the upcoming 2026 Nintendo Switch 2 version represents something much bigger than just another platform release – it’s Microsoft’s first game specifically designed for Nintendo’s next-generation console.
This groundbreaking collaboration between Microsoft and Nintendo signals a new era of cross-platform gaming that could reshape how we think about console exclusives and platform partnerships.
What Makes This Indiana Jones Game Special
Developed by MachineGames and published by Bethesda Softworks, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle delivers an authentic archaeological adventure set between Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade. The game follows our favorite fedora-wearing archaeologist in 1937 as he races to prevent various groups from harnessing the mysterious power of the Great Circle.
The gameplay blends first-person exploration with third-person action sequences, allowing players to use Indy’s signature whip for both combat and traversal. What sets this game apart is its immersive sim approach, offering multiple paths through levels and the choice between stealth and direct confrontation.
Key Locations and Features
| Location | Type | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vatican City | Sandbox | Free exploration, multiple entrances |
| Giza Pyramids | Sandbox | Desert exploration, ancient mysteries |
| Himalayas | Linear | Survival elements, portal mechanics |
| Shanghai | Linear | War-torn city, escape sequences |
| Sukhothai | Sandbox | Flooded jungle, resistance cooperation |
The Nintendo Switch 2 Significance
The decision to bring Indiana Jones and the Great Circle to Nintendo Switch 2 represents more than just expanding the game’s reach. This marks the first time Microsoft has committed to developing a major first-party title specifically for a Nintendo platform in recent memory.
Given that the original game was built with ray tracing technology in mind, the Nintendo Switch 2 version will be particularly interesting to observe. The technical adaptations required to bring this visually impressive game to Nintendo’s portable-hybrid platform could provide insights into the Switch 2’s capabilities.
Release Timeline and Platform Availability
The game has followed an interesting release strategy across different platforms:
- December 2024: Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Game Pass
- April 2025: PlayStation 5 (with early access April 15)
- September 2025: The Order of Giants DLC expansion
- 2026: Nintendo Switch 2 version
This staggered release approach allows each platform to have its moment while building anticipation for subsequent launches.
The Order of Giants Expansion
Before the Nintendo Switch 2 release, fans can look forward to The Order of Giants DLC launching September 4, 2025. This expansion takes players back to Rome to uncover dark secrets beneath the city, delving deeper into the Nephilim Order storyline from the main game.
The DLC promises new locations, intricate puzzles, dangerous cultists, and epic new enemies, maintaining the classic Indiana Jones adventure formula that made the base game so successful.
What This Means for Gaming’s Future
Microsoft’s decision to bring Indiana Jones and the Great Circle to Nintendo Switch 2 could signal a broader shift in how platform holders approach exclusivity. With Game Pass expanding to multiple platforms and Microsoft’s focus on software over hardware sales, we might see more first-party Microsoft titles making their way to Nintendo systems.
This collaboration benefits everyone – Nintendo Switch 2 owners get access to a premium adventure game, Microsoft expands its audience reach, and the gaming community gets to experience great games regardless of their platform choice.
FAQs
When will Indiana Jones and the Great Circle release on Nintendo Switch 2?
The game is scheduled to release on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, though no specific date has been announced yet.
Is this really Microsoft’s first game for Nintendo Switch 2?
Yes, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will be Microsoft’s first game specifically designed for Nintendo Switch 2, marking a significant milestone in platform collaboration.
Will the Nintendo Switch 2 version have all the same features as other platforms?
While specific details haven’t been confirmed, the game was originally built with ray tracing in mind, so some visual adaptations will likely be necessary for the Switch 2 version.
Can I play The Order of Giants DLC on Nintendo Switch 2?
Yes, The Order of Giants DLC will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 when the base game launches in 2026.
Do I need to play other Indiana Jones games before this one?
No, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle features an original story that works as a standalone adventure, though fans of the films will appreciate the references and authentic feel.
Will the game support Nintendo Switch 2’s unique features?
While Nintendo Switch 2’s specific features haven’t been fully revealed, developers typically optimize games to take advantage of each platform’s unique capabilities.
Is Indiana Jones and the Great Circle worth waiting for on Nintendo Switch 2?
If you prefer gaming on Nintendo’s platform or want to experience the game portably, waiting for the 2026 release could be worthwhile, especially since it will include all content and improvements made since the original launch.
Looking Ahead
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle’s journey to Nintendo Switch 2 represents more than just another port – it’s a symbol of gaming’s evolving landscape where great experiences matter more than platform boundaries. As we approach 2026, this release could very well set the precedent for future cross-platform collaborations.
Whether you’re a longtime Indiana Jones fan or someone interested in the implications of Microsoft’s platform strategy, this Nintendo Switch 2 release deserves attention. It proves that in today’s gaming world, the best adventures should be accessible to everyone, regardless of which console they choose to call home.