Based upon Computer Artworks' 2000 video game "Evolva", Universal invited them to make a pitch for the game. For the pitch, Computer Artworks reskinned a level from "Evolva" with an Antarctic theme and a Thing-like creature as a boss fight. The pitch impressed Universal sufficiently, and the deal was signed. According to the game's director, William Latham, "Universal were very good to work with. They told us to come up with original ideas. It wasn't like a "Harry Potter" license. There weren't strict guidelines, as long as we retained the quality of the original work." Drawing inspiration from "Aliens", the 1956 version of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers", "Half-Life" and Area 51 conspiracy theories, Computer Artworks began work on the game in November 2000. On January 16, they announced the game would also be released for Windows, with a release date slated for mid-2002. The game was first shown at Universal Interactive's "Gamer's Day" on August 13, where it was confirmed it would also be coming to PlayStation 2. A non-playable demo was shown, and a Q&A session was held with the developers. Universal revealed details of the fear/trust and infection systems, which they said would form an integral aspect of the basic gameplay.