Nightdive Studios’ ‘The Thing: Remastered’ offers a gripping survival horror experience. As an open-world gaming fan, I found its detailed environments and tense gameplay very engaging. Steam reviews are mixed—some players love this remaster, while others are frustrated. The trust/fear system adds depth, making interactions more intense.

Despite the remaster’s upgrades, issues like AI pathfinding bugs and tough boss fights remain. Using weapons and managing your squad make gameplay better, but not being able to move while shooting, unlike the original PC version, feels restrictive.

I explored every part of this remastered horror. The game stays true to the 2002 original while expanding the story from where the 1982 film ended. The exciting story, interesting characters, and smooth plot twists create a powerful horror experience.

For speedrunners, the game has exciting challenges. Different paths allow creative problem-solving and faster runs. The graphics shine with dynamic lighting, realistic reflections, shadows, and depth effects, adding to the scary atmosphere.

The crisp 4K resolution and up to 144 FPS make the Antarctic horror feel alive. The eerie sound effects and atmospheric score intensify the tension. However, the removal of Saliva’s iconic song is a disappointing omission.

Character roles feel meaningful, with NPC responses adding realism. Yet, essential NPCs like engineers getting infected and causing instant game-over scenarios can frustrate players seeking a fair challenge.

Replay value suffers due to scripted teammate transformations, reducing the thrill of subsequent playthroughs. More dynamic elements could boost replayability. Some players also find the game too easy, even on its hardest setting. Better difficulty balancing could enhance the overall experience.

A truly great horror game balances challenge and reward. While ‘The Thing: Remastered’ stumbles in a few areas, it’s still a rewarding journey for fans of the original and newcomers alike. Though old bugs remain, its revised graphics, eerie ambiance, and interactive character dynamics give it a unique charm.

If you enjoy decision-driven, squad-based survival games, consider trying ‘Until Dawn’ or ‘The Forest,’ where choices shape the story. For in-depth exploration, horror classics like ‘Amnesia: The Dark Descent’ and ‘SOMA’ by Frictional Games offer unforgettable scares.

 

I’d suggest ‘Resident Evil 3 Remake’ for fellow speedrunners. It’s full of intriguing shortcuts and optimal paths to discover, and it’s a similar breed of survival horror to ‘The Thing: Remastered.’

Add The Thing Remastered to your Steam Library today!