The Thing: Infection at Outpost 31

The Thing: Infection at Outpost 31

BluffingDeductionHorrorLicensed / Adapted
Players
4-8
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
8 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
120 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
17+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.3 / 5
Year
2017

About the game

The Thing: Infection at Outpost 31 brings John Carpenter's sci-fi horror classic to the table as a hidden-role deduction game. Playing as one of twelve Outpost 31 crew members, players investigate the facility, sharing supplies and equipment while trying to root out who has been secretly infected. Tension mounts as paranoia spreads and trust becomes a scarce resource. Supporting 4-8 players, it's built for larger groups seeking a thematic, suspicious night of play.

Hobbli's Notes

This is one of the better licensed hidden-role games out there, largely because the infection mechanic keeps genuine doubt alive right up to the end. It leans into the film's paranoid atmosphere effectively, especially with a full table of eight. Best enjoyed with a group that already likes bluffing and social deduction games.

What we like

  • Tense hidden-role deduction faithful to the film.
  • Supports up to 8 players for big group nights.
  • Variable player powers add asymmetric depth.
  • Strong thematic atmosphere of paranoia.

Keep in mind

  • Downtime can grow with larger player counts.
  • Needs a fuller group to feel its best.
  • Infection reveals can feel swingy or luck-driven.

Who it's for

Great for larger groups aged 17+ who enjoy tense hidden-role deduction games, best with 6-8 players.

Mechanics

Dice RollingHand ManagementHidden Roles / TraitorRole PlayingTeam-Based GameVariable Player PowersVoting

Games similar to The Thing: Infection at Outpost 31