Lucasfilm and Zynga have recently joined forces to bring Indiana Jones to social games for the first time. The fedora-wearing adventurer will debut in Adventure World via a new chapter called Indiana Jones™ and the Calendar of the Sun. Players will also find the character throughout the Adventure World story, which has been re-named Indiana Jones™ Adventure World. The chapter is available at http://apps.facebook.com/playadventureworld/ in 14 languages. Undoubtedly Indiana Jones can speak them all!
You can see the evolution of the character below:
The version on the far right is a fantastic likeness of Harrison Ford. He looks cocky and thrilled at the prospect of a new archaeological adventure. Note the trademark fedora, whip, and satchel. What Indiana Jones adventure would be complete without those items?
The press release offers some more information:
In Indiana Jones™ and the Calendar of the Sun, players and friends star as their own characters and play alongside Indiana Jones as he whips, swings and runs over traps and beasties. Indy, being Indy, has some great weapons, gadgets and special in-game animations. Players will also receive special collections that can be redeemed for a “mystery box” of adventure goodies. Items at launch include: Archaeology Term Paper, Satchel, Antidote, Glasses and a Journal. The new chapter includes a total of three maps at launch – Jungle Approach, Lunar Mine and Mystery of the Moon Door – and is available for all Adventure World players. More maps will be available in the coming weeks.
I decided to try the game out briefly, and the first decision is whether or not to play as a male or female explorer. Both look good in a fedora, so it’s all a matter of personal choice. Indy then sends you a telegram that starts you off on your first adventure. I hacked vines with a machete in the jungle and then fought spiders in a cave, collecting items and coins along the way. I have a strong suspicion that this game could be highly addictive, just as any internet game can easily become. I confess my own current weakness is Bejeweled Blitz.
I didn’t play for very long, but I have to say that Adventure World is fun and easy to play. Music from the films has been mixed in with original music, giving the game a more authentic Indiana Jones feel. Be sure to check it out.