Released in 1989 by Lucasfilm Games, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade: The Action Game is a side-scrolling action platformer based on the blockbuster film of the same name. Unlike the studio's famous point-and-click adventure adaptation, this version focuses on fast-paced gameplay, challenging platforming, and arcade-style action as players guide the legendary archaeologist through scenes inspired by the movie.
Players take control of Indiana Jones as he battles enemy soldiers, leaps across dangerous obstacles, climbs ropes and ladders, and searches for the Holy Grail. Levels recreate memorable moments from the film, including the catacombs beneath Venice, Castle Brunwald, the Zeppelin escape, and the dramatic temple housing the Grail. Each stage requires careful timing, exploration, and combat to survive.
Indiana's iconic whip serves as both a weapon and a tool for overcoming obstacles. Players can swing across gaps, fend off enemies, and interact with parts of the environment. Punches, kicks, and collected weapons also help deal with hostile guards encountered throughout the adventure. While the controls can be demanding by modern standards, mastering movement and the whip is essential to progressing through the increasingly difficult levels.
The DOS version features colourful EGA and VGA graphics depending on the hardware available, accompanied by memorable music and sound effects inspired by John Williams' famous film score. Although the game is considerably more difficult than many players remember, it captures the excitement and atmosphere of the movie while delivering a classic late-1980s arcade experience.
Today, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade – The Action Game remains an interesting companion to the better-known adventure game released around the same time. It showcases Lucasfilm Games experimenting with different genres while bringing one of cinema's most beloved heroes to home computers.
Each game uses different controls, most DOS games use the keyboard arrows. Some will use the mouse.
