The Many's Hive
Survive the infection. Resist the Many.
System Shock 2 is a 1999 action role-playing and survival horror video game designed by Ken Levine and co-developed by Irrational Games and Looking Glass Studios.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Biological/psychic nexus
- Affiliation
- The Many
- First appears
- System Shock 2 (1999)
- Location
- Citadel Station, various decks
- Function
- Central hub for The Many's collective consciousness and biomass growth
- Threat level
- Extreme — active assimilation zone
Lore & Background
The Many originated from a parasitic alien organism discovered on Tau Ceti V. The organism infected a rescue team sent to the planet's surface, integrating them into a psychic hive mind known as 'the Many'.
Reader's Guide
The player assumes the role of a soldier trying to stem the outbreak of a genetic infection that has devastated the ship. Gameplay consists of first-person combat and exploration, with role-playing elements such as developing skills and traits like hacking and psionic abilities.
Did You Know?
- System Shock 2 was originally intended to be a standalone title but was changed into a sequel when Electronic Arts signed on as publisher.
- The game takes place on a starship in a cyberpunk depiction of 2114.
- System Shock 2 received critical acclaim but failed to meet commercial sales expectations.
- A 25th anniversary remaster was released in 2025 by Nightdive Studios.
More in Story & Campaigns
Elsewhere in System Shock
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