“Jurassic Park Survival” stands as a game that has lingered in my dreams since childhood.
Unlike other games that let us construct theme parks or engage with dinosaurs from the safety of an arcade, this interactive experience immerses us in the iconic film’s events with minimal means of self-defense.
Imagine hiding in the kitchen as velociraptors draw near, praying that stray ladles won’t lead to your demise on the tile floor, or rushing out of the iconic gate only to face a bloodthirsty T-Rex.
The trailer for Saber Interactive’s upcoming adventure, while heavily horror-themed and filled with nods to the original film, effectively conveys the suspense and excitement that this game promises, leaving me genuinely thrilled.
What immediately struck me was the resemblance to Creative Assembly’s “Alien: Isolation.” For years, I’ve advocated that Jurassic Park is an ideal candidate for such a gaming formula, swapping out Xenomorphs for a variety of dinosaurs capable of relentless pursuit.
With limited means to fight back and likely no firearms training, players would have to outsmart their scaly adversaries, solve puzzles, and figure out how to escape.
The game’s announcement labels it as an ‘action-adventure,’ suggesting the possibility of weapons or at least a means of defense against dinosaur threats. However, the trailer emphasizes isolation and anxiety, portraying the protagonist, Dr. Maya Joshi, stranded on Isla Nublar after others have escaped.
The glimpse of gameplay footage showcases familiar landmarks, intelligent dinosaurs, and a tense atmosphere that captivates Spielbergian suspense.
While “Survival” taps into nostalgia, its strength may lie in subverting familiarity and offering an island filled with intelligent dinosaurs, familiar landmarks, and immersive storytelling.
The main objective is survival, but the game invites players to explore the park’s sights cautiously, creating an atmosphere of fear and suspense.
The true potential of “Jurassic Park Survival” lies in combining fear, consistent dread, and ample fan service, promising more than the typical licensed gaming experience.