System Shock 2 is a survival-horror game that blends first-person shooter and RPG elements, set on a spaceship where the player must fight a parasitic alien hive mind called "the Many". The game is known for its immersive atmosphere, created through dark lighting, unsettling sound design, and a story that explores psychological horror and the consequences of scientific advancement. Players must manage resources, upgrade their character, and make choices that affect the outcome.