• Publisher: VU Games
  • Release Date: Aug 19, 2002
  • Also On: PC
Metascore
78 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 27
  2. Negative: 0 out of 27
  1. Incredibly atmospheric (it makes great use of flickering lights, icy landscapes, and foreboding corridors) without skimping on the screams, The Thing is a terrifying battle to the finish.
  2. One of the best survival horror games on the market, even giving RESIDENT EVIL a run for its money.
  3. 90
    Seriously gory but realistic environments and an action-heavy gameplay mix make The Thing a satisfyingly disturbing must-play...Terrifyingly good.
  4. Wildly engaging and even somewhat innovative... While the story isn't at it's strongest; the game possesses all the great things we look for in a true survival horror title.
  5. The gameplay in The Thing is very unique and complex, but does a terrific job to put you right in the middle of the action as you control yourself and your squad.
  6. There's almost a complete absence of soundtrack and it really works in creating a sense of dread (coupled with the sporadic nature of the thing attacks, at least in the early going).
  7. If "SOCOM" and "Max Payne" had a baby, it would be The Thing...A rare exception in a genre where movie-to-game titles rarely succeed.
  8. With some occasionally spooky moments, dialogue that isn't afraid to say **** and NPCs that don't mind the occasional vomiting session you've got a game that does the source film justice.
  9. After playing through this rather lengthy and involving game, survival horror fans will more than likely find that The Thing is one of the best such games for the PS2.
  10. 83
    Well-paced, designed with an excellent variety of levels, and it pulls off the most innovative and best squad-based play on PS2.
  11. A brilliant adaptation of a unique movie. The clever team management is let down by unsatisfying combat. [PSM2]
  12. Manages to pack plenty of solid gameplay, with more than a few horrific scenes. [Nov 2002, p.124]
  13. 83
    Rife with thrills and chills, The Thing delivers on all levels. Leave the light on for this one.
  14. It will scare you silly. We just wished it looked a little better. [Nov 2002, p.46]
  15. Demands an almost religious knowledge of its source material to be fully enjoyed (in-jokes and quotes from the movie are spread throughout the game)...One heck of an action-packed, scary and violent videogame.
  16. This contrived implementation of a great concept is disappointing, but at least the surrounding game delivers some taught cinematic moments that would make Carpenter proud. [6 Sept 2002]
  17. The central narrative holds up for the most part, the squad-based elements are terrific, and the suspense won't let you down.
  18. If it weren't for a poor combo or random and scripted transformations by your squad mates into Things all the time, the whole team dynamic would have felt a little more personal.
  19. A great addition to the survival horror genre. It's got good (if complex) controls, decent visuals and the backing of a terrific license.
  20. It's simply essential that you see the movie before playing The Thing to get full enjoyment out of it...Even considering all its faults, this is still an extremely fun and spooky title.
  21. Computer Artworks has done right by Mr. Carpenter's vision. [Nov 2002, p.84]
  22. For the real effect of the game, watch the movie before you play it. It really sets the mood. Even if you have seen this classic film before, watch it again. It makes the whole thing that much more scary.
  23. Despite these gripes, the moody visuals and frantic gameplay prevail, so horror fans should still seek out The Thing. [Nov 2002, p.290]
  24. Another barrier to immersion was that the level of realism is inconsistent, and conveniently tossed aside when necessary.
  25. I can't help feeling like the game would have benefited from another six months or so of development. [Nov 2002, p.192]
  26. Think of it as a "Half-Life" and "Resident Evil" sandwich with some new innovations as condiments. But be forewarned: not everyone will enjoy the taste.
  27. The proliferation of save points also strips any element of tension away from the experience.
User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 31 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 28
  2. Negative: 4 out of 28
  1. DanM.
    10
    This game is crazy! but im stuck on my 2nd boss.
  2. MikeK.
    10
    i give this game mad props..... very scary!!
  3. PS2Junkie
    10
    This game is hot. anyone who says other wise has a fu..ing twing in their brain i liked this game alotthe only downside is that some of the bosses like boss three are extremely hard to kill. Full Review »