As of December 31, 2024, Nintendo Switch gamers across Europe can finally breathe a sigh of relief. After an agonizing wait, it appears that Nightdive Studio’s remaster of “The Thing,” inspired by John Carpenter’s iconic 1982 film, is set to make its European debut on the Nintendo eShop. With a price tag of £24.99 in the UK and €27.99 in Spain, the game is positioned to capture the attention of fans eager to delve into the classic squad-based shooter that first arrived on the scene in 2002. This launch marks a significant moment for players who have long awaited the opportunity to experience this unique blend of horror and strategy on their Switch consoles.
Originally released in North America on December 5, 2024, “The Thing: Remastered” faced delays in Europe, leaving many gamers feeling overlooked. Despite being announced weeks in advance, the European eShops were frustratingly silent. Nightdive Studio took to social media to assure fans that the game had indeed been submitted to Nintendo of Europe, but its appearance in the shops was hindered by the ongoing holiday backlog. Such delays often reveal the complexities of game publishing, especially for titles tied to legal and licensing issues. Ultimately, the waiting game has illustrated the plight of European gamers who are often left behind in the race to access new titles.
For those unwilling to wait, a workaround has been suggested: users can access the North American eShop by linking their Nintendo Accounts to a North American location. This raises interesting discussions about regional disparities in gaming availability and how players navigate these challenges. However, many gamers may prefer to keep their regional accounts intact, desiring a cleaner, uninterrupted user experience. The notion that the game might be hidden away in the European eShops under a different guise is a perplexing topic. Imagining a scenario where unsuspecting players download another game, only to unwittingly receive “The Thing,” adds a humorous twist to the otherwise frustrating situation.
Earlier reviews of “The Thing: Remastered” have noted that while the game may excel in certain areas, it is not without its flaws. The title has garnered praise for its remastering efforts, successfully rekindling the nostalgic joy while still leaving room for improvement. Nightdive Studio, known for its dedication to reviving classic titles, has showcased their ability to breathe new life into this cult classic. Critics describe the gameplay as an enjoyable yet imperfect experience, underscoring the ongoing struggle within the gaming industry to balance nostalgia and innovation.
The emergence of “The Thing: Remastered” on the European Nintendo eShop is not just a mere release but a culmination of patience and perseverance from players who love the genre. As gamers anticipate the official launch, hope remains high that the experience will live up to expectations shaped by years of nostalgia. The gaming community is set to welcome this classic once more, and it sparks an exciting conversation about how we engage with our favorite titles, regardless of the hurdles along the way.