- The Thing Lives

First Impressions
The Dyno-Thane The Thing Lives comes in a striking purple and orange color combination that is easy to track down the lane. The technical foundation of this model is the symmetric Tri-Power core in a two-piece construction, with a 2.50 RG and a very high 0.060 differential. These dynamic core numbers point to massive flare potential and a pronounced roll phase. The core is wrapped in the Soaker X Solid coverstock, an aggressive reactive material that comes out of the box with an 800 matte finish. This specific combination of a very strong, early-rolling core and a rough, high-traction surface is primarily designed to read reliably even through high oil volume in the heads and to build a continuous, predictable motion. The matte properties of the cover should ensure that the ball finds traction early and does not slide uncontrolled across the boards before it starts its final move toward the pocket.
Comparison In comparison, the Dyno-Thane The Thing Lives positions itself as a clearly more aggressive and more reactive evolution of its direct predecessors. Compared to a benchmark ball like the Storm Phaze II, which is likewise valued for its strong and easily readable solid cover, The Thing Lives shows somewhat more pronounced flare potential thanks to its extremely high differential. This can lead to a slightly more abrupt reaction as soon as the ball leaves the oiled area and hits friction. Against the original Dyno-Thane The Thing, this updated version offers noticeably more traction in the important midlane area as well as an overall stronger hook motion, courtesy of the revised Soaker X cover. If you compare the performance data with a contemporary heavy-oil ball like the Motiv Jackal Ghost, The Thing Lives will tend to release its energy somewhat earlier because of the material composition of its era. That means it may save a bit less power for the backend in the modern transition, but it still generates an impressive overall motion.
On the Lanes On the lanes, the Dyno-Thane The Thing Lives is designed precisely for medium to heavily oiled lane conditions, and that is where it should show its full potential. If you naturally generate higher ball speed, or if you have a lower rev rate and are looking for maximum hook on demanding patterns, you'll find a highly dependable tool in this ball. The very rough factory surface makes sure the ball does not skid through the heads ineffectively in dense oil, but instead picks up its forward roll early and securely. However, once the lane moves into transition over the course of a tournament or league session and the oil is carried further down the lane by the many shots thrown, The Thing Lives can react a little too early and burn up its energy prematurely. This may show up as a flatter entry angle and a noticeably reduced carry, since the ball lacks the necessary punch at the pin deck. In those tactical situations, a timely switch to a weaker or polished model is advisable. For the initial attack on freshly oiled lanes or sport patterns with high oil volume, though, this model should provide exactly the stability and control needed to hit the pocket consistently and with high pressure.