The Thing: Remastered review

vipin khanna2 weeks ago

0 12 3 minutes read

The Thing: Remastered, developed by Nightdive Studios, is a revitalization of the 2002 horror video game inspired by John Carpenter’s iconic film. This remaster aims to enhance the original experience while retaining its core elements, allowing both newcomers and fans of the original to engage with this classic title. In this review, we will explore the various aspects of The Thing: Remastered, including its graphics, gameplay mechanics, sound design, and overall experience.

Background

Originally released in 2002 by Computer Artworks, The Thing was a third-person shooter that combined horror elements with squad-based gameplay. Set in the icy desolation of Antarctica, players navigated through a narrative that intertwined with the film’s themes of paranoia and survival. Despite receiving mixed reviews at launch, it garnered a cult following for its unique mechanics and atmospheric storytelling. The remaster seeks to modernize these aspects while remaining faithful to its roots.

Visual Enhancements

One of the most notable improvements in The Thing: Remastered is its visual presentation. Nightdive Studios has significantly upgraded the graphics, introducing:

Improved Textures: The remaster features higher resolution textures that enhance the visual fidelity of characters and environments, making them more immersive.
Dynamic Lighting: Enhanced lighting effects create a more atmospheric experience, effectively capturing the eerie ambiance of the Antarctic setting.
Character Models and Animations: Updated character models and animations contribute to a more fluid and engaging gameplay experience.

Despite these advancements, some reviews note that the game still retains a certain “blocky” aesthetic reminiscent of early 2000s titles. However, these enhancements have made it visually appealing for modern audiences [1][5][8].

Gameplay Mechanics

The core gameplay mechanics remain largely unchanged but have been refined for a smoother experience. Key features include:

Squad-Based Gameplay: Players control a team of characters, each with unique skills and attributes. Managing squad morale is crucial; players must build trust among team members to prevent paranoia from escalating.
Fear/Trust System: This innovative mechanic allows players to influence their squad’s behavior based on their actions and decisions throughout the game. Maintaining trust is essential for survival, as characters can turn against each other if fear becomes overwhelming.
Improved Controls: The remaster offers customizable controls for both keyboard/mouse and controller setups, making it easier for players to navigate commands and manage their squad effectively [2][4][6].

While many reviewers praised these mechanics, some noted that they can feel somewhat clunky due to the limitations of the original engine. Navigating menus to issue commands can be cumbersome at times [2][3].

Sound Design

Sound design plays a pivotal role in creating an immersive horror experience. In The Thing: Remastered, Nightdive has made strides in this area:

Atmospheric Sound Effects: The environmental sounds effectively convey the chilling atmosphere of Antarctica, enhancing tension during gameplay.
Music Score: Ennio Morricone’s haunting score remains a highlight, punctuating key moments with an added layer of unease.
Voice Acting: While some reviews appreciated the overall sound design, others criticized the voice acting quality. Characters often oscillate between calmness and panic too rapidly, which can detract from immersion [3][5][7].

Narrative Structure

The narrative in The Thing: Remastered serves as a continuation of Carpenter’s film. Players engage with familiar themes of paranoia and survival while exploring new plot elements. The story unfolds through various missions set within Outpost 31, where players uncover secrets tied to the titular alien entity.

Performance on Modern Platforms

Performance has been a significant focus for Nightdive Studios in this remaster. Reviewers reported that The Thing: Remastered runs smoothly across various platforms:

Frame Rate Consistency: The game maintains a steady frame rate close to 60 FPS on most systems, enhancing gameplay fluidity.
Battery Efficiency on Portable Devices: On handheld devices like the Steam Deck, players noted minimal battery drain during gameplay sessions [1][6].
Wide Platform Availability: The remaster is available on multiple platforms including PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, PC, and Nintendo Switch, ensuring broad accessibility [3][4].

Overall Experience

In conclusion, The Thing: Remastered successfully revitalizes a classic horror title while preserving its core elements. Nightdive Studios has demonstrated their expertise in remastering retro games by enhancing visuals and improving gameplay mechanics without losing sight of what made the original special.

Pros:

Significant visual upgrades with improved textures and lighting.
Engaging squad-based mechanics with a unique fear/trust system.
Strong atmospheric sound design that enhances immersion.

Cons:

Some clunky controls due to engine limitations.
Voice acting quality may detract from narrative immersion.
Short playtime may limit replay value.

Overall scores from various reviewers reflect a consensus that while not perfect—often attributed to its age—the remaster is worth playing for fans of horror games or those interested in video game history [2][3][5]. As Nightdive continues to breathe new life into classic titles, The Thing: Remastered stands as another testament to their commitment to preserving gaming heritage while making it accessible for modern audiences.