Few franchises capture the imagination like Jurassic Park. Since its cinematic debut in 1993, Steven Spielberg’s groundbreaking film has inspired generations of fans and expanded into a sprawling multimedia empire.
From comics and video games to theme parks and spinoff films, Jurassic Park has transcended its original medium to become a cultural phenomenon. Now, fans are gearing up for a return to Isla Nublar in the highly anticipated video game “Jurassic Park: Survival”.
This upcoming first-person action-adventure game promises to immerse players in the untamed world of Jurassic Park, offering both nostalgia and fresh perspectives on the iconic 1993 film. Developed by Universal and Saber, “Jurassic Park: Survival” takes place just 24 hours after the catastrophic events of the original movie, thrusting players into the shoes of Dr. Maya Joshi, an InGen scientist stranded on the island.
Related: Upcoming ‘Jurassic Park’ Sequel Reveals Untold Stories From the 1993 Classic
Isla Nublar has always been central to the Jurassic Park lore, but its vast landscape remains largely unexplored in the films. While audiences have seen the Visitor’s Center, T-Rex paddock, and other key locations, much of the island was left off-screen, teasing fans with what could have been. Michael Crichton’s original novel provided glimpses of these untapped areas, including an aviary, a lagoon, and a luxurious hotel known as Pteratops Lodge (or Safari Lodge).
Though absent from Spielberg’s adaptation, Pteratops Lodge played a significant role in Crichton’s narrative, offering a refuge for VIP guests and, later, a tense hiding spot for Ian Malcolm as he evaded prowling raptors. While “Jurassic Park: Survival” takes creative liberties, the developers have confirmed that iconic locations from the film and novel—along with new additions—will feature prominently.
“We’ve been working with all our stakeholders on what the island would have looked like after the events of the film,” shared John Melchior, executive producer for Universal Products & Experiences, in an interview with IGN earlier this year. “This includes areas we all love, like the Visitor’s Center and the T-Rex paddock, but also what we didn’t see—things that were not part of the tour or got cut off by the storm.”
Related: Dinosaurs May Have Been Lurking Underground in ‘Jurassic Park’, New Sequel Implies
Set against the backdrop of a ravaged theme park, “Jurassic Park: Survival” promises thrilling encounters with dinosaurs, each exhibiting unique behaviors. From the towering Tyrannosaurus Rex to the cunning Velociraptors, players must navigate a world teeming with prehistoric predators. The game’s official synopsis teases a compelling narrative:
“Return to Isla Nublar the day after the events of the beloved 1993 Jurassic Park film in an original adventure 65 million years in the making. Survive thrilling first-person action as InGen scientist Dr. Maya Joshi, who was unable to evacuate Isla Nublar, in this single-player action-adventure game and discover a never-before-told story. Through thrilling encounters, experience the wonder and danger of dinosaurs, each with their own distinct and adaptive behaviors brought to life by John Hammond’s vision.”
Fans can expect to explore both familiar and newly imagined parts of Isla Nublar. Pteratops Lodge, which likely serve as a save point within the game, is one such location, offering players a chance to experience the iconic hotel first-hand.
Related: ‘Jurassic World’ and ‘Jurassic Park’ Set for an Epic Showdown in 2025
What sets “Jurassic Park: Survival” apart from previous games is its focus on untold stories within the Jurassic Park timeline. The game not only expands on the world Spielberg introduced but also addresses lingering questions from the original film. What other dinosaurs roamed Isla Nublar? What secrets lie hidden in the island’s uncharted territories? By exploring these mysteries, the game deepens the franchise’s lore while providing fans with a fresh, immersive experience.
For many, the appeal of Jurassic Park lies in its ability to evoke awe and terror in equal measure. “Jurassic Park: Survival” capitalizes on this dichotomy, placing players in life-or-death scenarios while immersing them in the wonder of a fully realized Isla Nublar.
Scheduled for release in 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Steam, “Jurassic Park: Survival” is shaping up to be a must-play title for fans of the franchise. The game’s developers have promised an experience that honors the original film while pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling. With its rich narrative, dynamic gameplay, and nostalgic callbacks, “Survival” is poised to capture the hearts of new and old fans alike.
While much of the game remains under wraps, the prospect of exploring Isla Nublar as never before has already sparked excitement. The inclusion of Pteratops Lodge, coupled with the chance to interact with iconic locations and creatures, ensures that “Jurassic Park: Survival” will be a standout entry in the franchise’s storied history.
Are you excited to see the Jurassic Park hotel appear in the new game? Let us know in the comments!
