Released in 2002 by Computer Artworks and published by Universal Interactive, The Thing is the video game sequel nobody expected and somehow actually works. Set after John Carpenter’s film, this one drops you into frozen paranoia hell and dares you to trust NPCs while fully knowing that trust is the dumbest thing you can do.

This is survival horror with a mean streak. Ammo is scarce, enemies are grotesque, and your squad is just as dangerous as whatever is hiding in the snow. The fear system is the real star here, with teammates panicking, disobeying orders, or straight-up losing it if you do not manage their stress. You are not just fighting monsters, you are babysitting grown adults with flamethrowers.

Visually, it screams early-2000s grit. Snowstorms, blood-soaked corridors, and body horror that still hits harder than it has any right to. The Xbox version runs well for its time and leans heavily into atmosphere over polish, which honestly works in its favor because nothing here is supposed to feel clean or safe.

The Thing is a single-player experience with no online features involved. It is tense, unfair, and constantly second-guessing you, which is exactly the point. If you want horror that messes with your head instead of just jump-scaring you, you can buy retro games on Retro Games eXchange and grab this knowing it will make you paranoid about everyone around you.

1. Unique fear and trust system that affects squad behavior.
2. Survival horror combat focused on resource management.
3. Heavy psychological tension inspired directly by the film.
4. Grotesque enemy design built around body horror.
5. A cult-classic horror game that still feels uncomfortable in the best way.