Starfish-Men are footsoldiers of the Things Outside Time And Space. Despite their name, they aren't men or in any way related to men. The Things gave the Starfish-Men the same general size and shape as men solely because this would make it easier for them to use human tools and weapons, and occupy human fortifications and cities, once they had successfully invaded across the dimensions. Neither are they related to ordinary sea life. Their moniker stems from their five-sided, sucker-covered hands and mouths – which resemble starfish in appearance – and limited regenerative capabilities.

Starfish-Men have no need for air, food, or water. As such, they lack vital organs and blood. They are largely immune to poison – but only because they can't ingest it and lack blood that could carry it from a wound. They are otherwise no tougher than humans; for instance, weapons harm them normally, they feel pain, and they share man's vulnerability to head injuries and decapitation. They eventually wither and die . . . at which time the Things simply spawn a replacement from supernatural energies pillaged from other worlds.