Zombies are an undead special enemy that make their first initial appearance in Thing-Thing 2 as mummy-like creatures lurking in the sand dunes, but are technically successors to frost-bitten zombies in the Thing-Thing 2 Alpha. They continue to feature in Thing-Thing Arena and Thing-Thing Arena 2, in the final installment, Thing-Thing 4, they make their last appearance.
The origin and creation of the zombies in the Thing-Thing series are unknown and mainly answered through speculation among players. In Thing-Thing 2, the zombies are portrayed with a somewhat religious-like affliction, resembling mummified creatures. However, in later titles such as Thing-Thing Arena and Thing-Thing Arena 2, the zombies take on a different appearance, resembling decomposed corpses without higher brain function. This style was how they were likely going to be conceived as evidenced by the Thing-Thing 2 Alpha.
The depiction of the zombies in the later Thing-Thing series aligns with the common archetype of undead experiments or viral outbreaks seen in various media, including films and games. These zombies exhibit typical traits associated with the undead, such as hostility towards all living beings and a lack of higher cognitive functions. Additionally, they display physical limitations, such as an inability to climb or jump onto surfaces as well as frequently stumbling and falling over while in motion.
Creation Theories[]
NOTE: This is all speculative. Take everything presented with a grain of salt.
Religious Affliction[]
The "religious affliction" theory regarding the zombies in Thing-Thing 2 suggests that their appearance and behavior may be linked to some form of spiritual or supernatural influence. In this interpretation, the mummified-like zombies could be seen as embodiments of ancient curses or divine punishment. Their presence in the sand dunes and their specific characteristics, such as bandages resembling mummy wrappings, might indicate a connection to ancient rituals or burial grounds.
The religious affliction theory suggests a deeper mythological or mystical force behind the zombies in Thing-Thing 2. There is an inconsistency with their purpose and why they specifically target Project 154. It is possible that the mummified zombies are creations of Systems Corp, but their selective targeting remains unexplained.
Systems Corp. Revival Theory[]
Unlike the above, Systems Corp. Revival Theory proposes that the zombies in the Thing-Thing series are failed experiments of Systems Corp. The theory suggests that Systems Corp. may have attempted to revive fallen Thing-Things as a means to create an unstoppable army of reanimated soldiers. However, the experiments were ultimately unsuccessful, resulting in the creation of the shambling, rotting zombies seen in the game. These zombies lack higher brain function and exhibit a constant state of decay as well as a shared hostility towards anything that lives, whether it is escaped Bio-Weapons or other Thing-Things.
Thing-Thing 2's alpha seems to start in some sort of abandoned laboratory formerly owned by Systems Corp, with many undead Thing-Things shambling the corridors. These would support the revival theory and genetic experimentation that SC is known for.
Appearance[]
In Thing-Thing 2, the zombies are depicted as wearing bandages resembling mummies. While they retain some agility, they are slightly weaker compared to regular opponents. In later installments, the zombies undergo further decomposition and appear more beaten up, with exposed flesh and internal structures. They exhibit slow and stumbling movements, often falling when descending surfaces. Despite their sluggishness, they should not be underestimated as they can quickly drain your health if encountered in large numbers. In Thing-Thing Arena, the zombies exhibit faster movement and increased health, posing an even greater challenge.
In the Thing-Thing 2 Alpha, the zombies are off-putting, given their husk-like and lifeless appearance with no eyes at all, merely a cracked socket in place of them. Their body appears to be 'cracked' and evident frostbite injuries are apparent, likely from the cryogenic nature of the lab.
Trivia[]
- Although in they do not appear as enemies in Thing Thing Arena 3, you can don an outfit that resembles a zombie.
- It is inferred that Systems Corp. may have some involvement with their creation.
- Zombies have an exclusive survival game mode dubbed Zombie Survival, in which you fight off a never-ending horde of them.