An "Indiana Jones" Video Game Is Coming, And I Already Have A Wish List

    Jock! Start the console!

    Jeremy Hayes
    by Jeremy Hayes

    BuzzFeed Contributor

    Well, I didn't expect to see "Indiana Jones video game" on my 2021 bucket list, but here we are:

    Bethesda @bethesda

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    Twitter: @bethesda

    Along with the teaser, Bethesda shared initial details, including that it's a brand-new, original Indiana Jones game from Todd Howard and Lucasfilm Games.

    Bethesda @bethesda

    A new Indiana Jones game with an original story is in development from our studio, @MachineGames, and will be executive produced by Todd Howard, in collaboration with @LucasfilmGames. It'll be some time before we have more to reveal, but we’re very excited to share today’s news!

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    Twitter: @bethesda

    Wow.

    For those unaware, MachineGames developed the Wolfenstein series. This game will be in good hands, but that doesn't mean there aren't still things I'd like to see; so here is my own personal Indiana Jones video game wish list:

    1. Make it as different from Uncharted as possible, and don't be afraid to take risks.

    Lucasfilm

    Nothing against the Uncharted games, but we've seen treasure hunters like Nathan Drake and Lara Croft multiple times. This is Indiana Jones we're talking about, arguably the OG of treasure-hunting archeologists in the mainstream. Hopefully, they find a way to make this game feel different even though it has many of the same treasure-hunting elements.

    2. Give us some creative whip mechanics and punch combos.

    Indiana Jones using his whip.
    Lucasfilm

    There have been a dozen Indiana Jones games in the past, but we haven't had one on newer consoles. So it is time to get creative in fighting styles. Whip + Shoot? Whip + Whip + Punch? Whip + Punch + Quip? The combos are endless.

    3. No need for a prequel. Besides, that might be what Disney has up their sleeves for a movie/series.

    Lucasfilm

    We already got a glimpse of young Indy in a TV show and the opening to The Last Crusade. I'd prefer a stand-alone story more in the spirit of the Bantam book series where Indy goes after ancient artifacts.

    4. How about the US government as villains?

    Military experts from "Raiders of the Lost Ark."
    Lucasfilm

    We've seen Indy punch plenty of Nazis (best bet since it is the Wolfenstein people) and Soviet Russians, but his own government targeting him could make for a more interesting story. Give me his equal and rival from his college years, hired by the government to bring the treasure to them rather than a museum. An ex-lover in his same field wanting whatever artifact for her own people who hired her. Something different and fresh.

    5. If Indiana goes to Africa: Stay away from Egypt and explore the continent more.

    Indiana Jones angry on a plane.
    Lucasfilm

    Africa has plenty of history and I would love to see other areas besides Egypt get explored. It is also a way to introduce new characters from a non-European continent. Perhaps have him partner up with a Tanzanian native to recover some lost Serengeti artifact?

    6. Don't do stereotypical boss fights, but give us those long-winded chases.

    Lucasfilm

    Previous games saw Jones running in a circle fighting bosses, but that isn't very true to the original source. Give us those goal-based chase scenes and fights on top of moving vehicles.

    7. Easter eggs that are tasteful, but not as passing mentions.

    Lucasfilm

    I prefer visual Easter eggs over a character going, "Hey, just got off the phone with Sallah. Remember that guy?" Keep Easter eggs and movie references on the low and let this potential video game series stand on its own.

    8. I wouldn't mind a snow-based segment of the story.

    Lucasfilm

    If they do lean on a Soviet Russian story line, I would like to see archeological challenges in harsh blizzards. Give us some snow vehicle chases and frigid temples. Give Indy layers...of clothing.

    9. Make this game puzzles and riddles galore.

    Indiana Jones staring at a golden idol.
    Lucasfilm

    Indiana's wits are what make him a great character, so please don't make this an all-out, in-your-face action series. Have clever writing and even more challenging obstacles to solve.

    10. Have the game make me run Indiana right up against the screen and make me run away to evade about 10 bad guys.

    Lucasfilm

    If you don't put this in an Indiana Jones game, then why are you making one?

    What would you like to see in an Indiana Jones game? Leave a comment below!