About Us
Thing Interactive was born from a passion and a desire to innovate within the gaming industry. Our small independent game studio is built on the belief that games can be more than just entertainment—they can be transformative experiences. With a mission to enhance experiences and expand the boundaries of gaming, our dedicated team is composed of experienced, creative, and passionate individuals. We excel in game development, offering customized gaming solutions and immersive game consulting. At Thing Interactive, we pride ourselves on creating unique and engaging experiences that resonate with players and push the envelope of gaming possibilities.
Thing Interactive is a proud member of the Meta Horizon Creator Program. This program provides access to earning opportunities for creations, helpful resources, dedicated support, and more. Our goal is to become a Meta Horizon Creator Partner. This goal will help accelerate our growth as a small independent game studio.
Meet our team
Sampson Crooks Jr.
The Architect (Founder)
Introduction
At the core of Thing Interactive is Sampson, a seasoned leader and technologist with a career spanning over 20 years across defense, aerospace, enterprise software, and emerging tech. With a rare blend of software engineering expertise, creative vision, and entrepreneurial grit, he founded Thing Interactive to bring transformative experiences to the world of gaming.
Background
Before launching the studio, Sampson led high-impact technology projects for organizations such as the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, Boeing, Microsoft and Lockheed Martin. From developing AI systems to track pilot cognition, to managing XR-based software innovation under SBIR grants, he pushed the limits of what's possible in tech.
Education
A lifelong learner, Sampson holds a Master's in Software Engineering from Penn State University (GPA: 3.95), a Master of Science in Project Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (GPA: 4.0, With Distinction), and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Mid-Continent University (Summa Cum Laude). This unique educational blend fuels a studio approach that's both profoundly technical and strategically grounded.
Goal
With a sharp eye for innovation and a deep passion for immersive storytelling, Sampson leads the Thing Interactive team with one goal : to craft games that challenge the norm, inspire players, and push the boundaries of interactive entertainment.
Lissette Irizarry
World Builder (Level Designer)
Introduction
Lissette is new to game development and is learning about world building using the Horizon Worlds Desktop Editor. She has over 18 years of criminal justice experience. She is a quintessential creative who contributes unique perspectives and experiences to our world building.
Background
Before joining the studio, Lissette has over 18 years of experience in the criminal justice field, serving in a range of roles focused on community supervision and specialty court programs. She currently works for the Administrative Office of the Courts, Department of Specialty Courts, leading the statewide drug court certification initiatives.
Education
Lissette holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Purdue Global University (Magna Cum Laude).
Goal
As a world builder and level designer, Lissette's goal is to create immersive, engaging environments that enhance gameplay, support storytelling and captivates players. She is passionate about crafting memorable experiences through thoughtful design, while continually growing her technical skills an collaborating with the team to bring game worlds to life.
Hobbies
Lissette loves getting creative with crochet projects. She also enjoy reading tarot cards, exploring symbolism and intuition. True crime documentaries and horror movies are my go-to for winding down, especially anything with a psychological twist. Whether it’s crafting, divination, or a good mystery, she's drawn to stories and details that unravel in unexpected ways.
Kenny Marine
Audio Alchemist (Audio Engineer)
Introduction
Kenny is a seasoned music composer and sound engineer with over 40 years of experience. His accomplishments include producing 25 of his own albums and 15 albums for other artist. He is passionate about music, sound engineering and is a multi-instrumentalist who can pickup and play just about any instrument.
Background
Before joining the studio, Kenny operated several small businesses with a focus on producing and manufacturing music products. He has a multi-talented skillset that goes far beyond music that includes graphic design.
Education
Kenny holds a Associates of Science in Graphic Design from Sullivan College of Technology and Design.
Goal
As an audio alchemist and audio engineer, Kenny's goal is to use audio to create immersive and engaging audio assets that enhance gameplay, supports storytelling and captivates players. He is passionate about bringing games to life with music, sound effects and voice overs.
HOBBIES
Kenny loves using AI tools and technologies to design custom art work. His inspiration is deep into sci-fi and enjoys all things Star Wars. He has a collection of art work and music that you can enjoy on YouTube.
Connect with Us
We're here to bring your vision to life. Reach out to our expert team today to discuss your project or learn more about our services.