Why Jack in the Dark Should Be on GOG – A Forgotten Christmas Gem
Jack in the Dark is a short but atmospheric horror adventure that often gets overshadowed by its bigger sibling, Alone in the Dark. Released in 1993 as a promotional mini-game during the holiday season, it’s a bite-sized, eerie experience that perfectly blends festive charm with a spooky twist—making it one of the most unique Christmas-themed games ever made.
Set on Christmas Eve, the story follows a little girl trapped in a toy store after hours. The once-cheerful toys have come to life under the command of Jack-in-the-Box, and it’s up to her to outwit them and escape. Despite its short length, the game nails the creepy holiday tone with dark lighting, haunting music, and imaginative toy-based enemies. It's like The Nightmare Before Christmas in game form—whimsical yet unsettling.
What makes Jack in the Dark special is its ability to tell a memorable and moody story with no dialogue, minimal controls, and a playtime of under 20 minutes. It’s a reminder that holiday games don’t always have to be cheerful—they can be mysterious, magical, and haunting too.
Releasing it on GOG would preserve this hidden gem and make it easily accessible to retro gaming fans. It’s a perfect seasonal curiosity that deserves a DRM-free home where it can be discovered and appreciated for what it is: a small, atmospheric classic that proves even horror can have holiday spirit.