Why The Thing Remastered’s Success Demands a New Game Release Now!

by

Two decades on from its initial debut, I found myself drawn back into the chilling world of “The Thing: Remastered”. This follow-up to John Carpenter’s classic movie may have some dated aspects, but the survival horror gameplay is as gripping now as it was then. As a testament to a less common franchise proving its enduring appeal, “The Thing: Remastered” has generated renewed interest, leaving me eager for more.

Horror movies generally do well when transitioned into video games, compared to other genres. The success of “The Thing: Remastered” is just the latest proof of this trend. It seems reasonable to expect that future releases, such as those inspired by “Alien: Isolation,” will also prosper if they can build on the original’s sense of fear and uncertainty. Essentially, “The Thing” could learn from these examples to create a chilling experience that echoes the impact of the movie.

The Thing: Remastered Proves the IP Has Held Up Surprisingly Well

A Blend of Action and Tension Which Was Ahead of Its Time

20 years after its initial release, “The Thing” continues to captivate gamers like me with its unique concept. Unlike a mere retelling of the 1982 horror film, this game serves as a sequel that delves deeper into the story beyond the central mystery portrayed in the movie. The main antagonist, “The Thing,” is not just one monster but a collection of different enemies with varying difficulties. In the game, we take on the role of Special Forces operatives battling these creatures across the Antarctic outpost camps as depicted in the original canon.

While the intense combat may surpass that of the source material, the subtle horror elements are still very much present. This combination makes for a gaming experience that is both viscerally engaging and terrifyingly immersive, keeping the allure of “The Thing” alive even after two decades.

As a gamer, what makes “The Thing: Remastered” even more gripping for me is the intricate blend of ear, trust, and infection mechanics that not only boosts its replay value but also ratchets up the suspense. The level of trust other characters have in me can fluctuate, influencing their readiness to collaborate and follow commands. Additionally, the risk of infection, triggered by interactions with enemies, significantly increases the chances of turning into ‘The Thing’. This unpredictability keeps me on edge throughout the game.

Giving The Thing a New Game Could Make the Most of One Survival Horror Niche

Leaning into the Stealth of the Original Film

2014’s “Alien: Isolation” stands as one of the most powerful adaptations within the entire Alien franchise, offering a chilling and muted gaming experience compared to its source material. By skillfully crafting an atmosphere of fear through mostly solitary encounters with a Xenomorph, it demonstrates just how far a basic horror concept can be stretched with masterful execution. If “The Thing” were to be reimagined in the gaming world, modern technology could create a more nerve-wracking and adaptable experience by learning from this example. The potential for variety when confronting the shape-shifting monster in an enclosed environment like another research station provides the opportunity for a game that keeps players constantly alert even after multiple playthroughs.

The Potential to Make the Most of the Fear/Trust System

In The Thing: Remastered, the impactful way characters interact with NPCs offers an excellent blueprint for future projects. This game successfully conveyed the eerie, tangible feeling of uncertainty that is synonymous with the original film. If future developments in dialogue systems and character interactions can leverage advancements in hardware, the terror of a fresh adaptation of The Thing could reach far beyond initial shocking visual horror.

Read More

2025-01-31 02:25