Originally released in 2002, The Thing was often a challenge for gamers to find through legitimate channels. This underappreciated third-person shooter serves as a sequel to the iconic 1982 horror film of the same name. For many years, it was confined to older consoles like the PlayStation 2 and original Xbox. Although a Windows version existed, it remained elusive on digital platforms and was incompatible with contemporary PCs. The situation was further complicated by the closure of its original developer, Computer Artworks, along with its publisher, Vivendi Universal Games, leaving no one to update or reintroduce the game for modern audiences.
Much like other licensed video games from the early 2000s, it appeared as though The Thing would become a relic of the past. However, a remarkable turnaround occurred in December of last year when the game was remastered and re-released on all current platforms. Titled The Thing: Remastered, this version was brought to life by Nightdive Studios, renowned for their work in reviving classic abandoned video games. The remaster garnered significant acclaim from fans, showcasing Nightdive’s impressive development capabilities. Given its success, one can only hope that Nightdive might consider a similar revival for another neglected horror title: Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi.
Nightdive Studios Should Explore a Remaster of Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi
Similar to The Thing, Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi Draws Inspiration from a Classic Horror Film
Released a year after The Thing, Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi is a first-person shooter developed by the Swedish studio Idol FX. This game is influenced by the iconic 1922 silent film, Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror. While it does not serve as a direct adaptation, the game shares core plot elements with the film, enhancing its horror theme.
Idol FX is perhaps best recognized for their work on Drake of the 99 Dragons, an original Xbox title notorious for its poor gameplay quality.
Set in 1912, Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi follows James Patterson, a member of a once-noble family. To revive his family’s fortunes, his sister Rebecca is wed to the son of a wealthy Romanian Count residing in Castle Malachi, Transylvania. When James arrives late for the wedding, he finds his family captured, held by the Count as sacrificial offerings. Armed with a sword and a cross, James must battle demons and vampires lurking in Castle Malachi to save his family before time runs out.
Unique Gameplay Mechanics Make Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi Stand Out
Essentially a straightforward horror-themed shooter, Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi offers a captivating yet brisk gaming experience. Despite its limited runtime and budget, it stands out thanks to inventive gameplay features. The game incorporates a roguelike mechanism, resulting in randomized loot drops, enemy placements, and configurations of Castle Malachi for each playthrough. Additionally, there’s a 90-minute time constraint in which players must rescue family members, or they will be sacrificed one by one, increasing the final boss’s strength.
A Remaster of Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi Could Leverage the Recent Success of the Nosferatu Film
Currently available on Steam, Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi would greatly benefit from a remaster by Nightdive Studios, similar to their work with The Thing. Given the recent success of Robert Eggers’ critically acclaimed Nosferatu film—an updated take on the 1922 classic—now presents an opportune moment for a re-release. The increasing interest in the film could drive new audiences to explore a modernized version of Nosferatu: The Wrath of Malachi.
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