Scary Thrills: Top Horror Video Games to Play Now
The best horror games are not for the faint of heart. They’ll make your heart race. Last year, the horror video games genre got some amazing new additions. Alan Wake 2, the Resident Evil 4 remake, and Amnesia: The Bunker are just a few examples.
These games are not for the faint of heart. They offer a mix of survival horror, psychological horror, and jump scares. They are perfect for those who love being scared. Let’s hope 2024 brings more thrilling games to the horror video games genre.
Key Takeaways
- Exciting new additions to the horror video games genre in 2023, including Alan Wake 2, Resident Evil 4 remake, and Amnesia: The Bunker
- Games offer a range of survival horror, psychological horror, and jump scares to thrill players
- Upcoming titles in 2024 are expected to continue the trend of high-quality horror video games
- Diverse game settings and themes, from supernatural horror to zombie games and slasher games
- Classics like Silent Hill, Resident Evil, and Outlast remain popular in the horror video games genre
The Last of Us Part 2: A Chilling Masterpiece
The Last of Us Part 2 is a gripping sequel that pulls you into a dark, post-apocalyptic world. It’s made by Naughty Dog, a studio known for its amazing games. This zombie horror game is a standout in this generation.
Why We Love It
The game’s visuals are stunning. Seattle and Santa Barbara are recreated in detail, making the game feel real. The voice acting by Ashley Johnson and Troy Baker adds to the characters’ emotional depth.
The gameplay is solid but the story is the real highlight. It builds on the original’s success, exploring vengeance and moral dilemmas in a zombie world.
Some critics, like Jim Sterling and Writing on Games, have pointed out the game’s pacing issues. Yet, its storytelling is praised for its depth and philosophical themes.
Despite hate campaigns, most players love The Last of Us Part 2. Its sales and social media buzz show its lasting appeal and emotional impact.
In summary, The Last of Us Part 2 is a masterpiece in the zombie horror genre. It combines technical skill with a thought-provoking story. It’s a must-play for anyone looking for a chilling and memorable game.
Dead Space Remake: Sci-Fi Survival Horror Perfected
The Dead Space remake is a big return to a classic survival horror series. Motive Studio and Electronic Arts worked together to bring it to life in 2023. This remake captures the tight atmosphere and intense fear that made the original a hit.
The story follows Isaac Clarke as he battles to stay alive on the USG Ishimura. This massive spacecraft is filled with Necromorphs. The remake has better graphics, sound, and gameplay, making it a thrilling sci-fi horror game.
The remake focuses on the Ishimura’s eerie setting. Its lighting and sound design make every corner feel scary. The game’s core, dismembering enemies, is still a key part of the fun.
While many praise the remake, some want more changes. Yet, it’s a great comeback for fans and new players. It’s a must-play for anyone who loves survival horror.
“The Dead Space remake is a masterclass in sci-fi survival horror, delivering a gripping and immersive experience that will leave players haunted long after the credits roll.”
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Visuals | Stunning visual effects and lighting create an oppressive and unsettling atmosphere on the USG Ishimura. |
| Gameplay | Strategic dismemberment of Necromorphs, intuitive HUD, and enhanced exploration mechanics deliver a tense and satisfying survival horror experience. |
| Narrative | Improved character development and additional lore elements deepen the storytelling and immerse players in the Dead Space universe. |
| Performance | The Steam version of the game offers a stable and smooth experience, with minimal technical issues reported by players. |
Still Wakes the Deep: Atmospheric Dread on an Oil Rig
“Still Wakes the Deep” is a survival horror game set on a remote North Sea oil rig in December 1975. It’s developed by The Chinese Room. This game drops you into a Lovecraftian nightmare that tests your mind and nerves.
Why We Love It
This game doesn’t use traditional combat. Instead, you must use stealth, evasion, and quick thinking to survive. The game’s checkpoint system makes death less frustrating, letting you focus on solving the mystery.
The monsters in the game are a mix of human and alien, making them both eerie and unsettling. Recent updates have made the world feel more natural and immersive.
The puzzles are simple, like moving objects or finding switches. But the game’s real strength is its storytelling and the constant feeling of dread. Fans of Outlast and Amnesia will love “Still Wakes the Deep.”
“The game’s acting and ability to capture the human condition are truly remarkable, creating a lasting impact on players.”
“Still Wakes the Deep” uses Unreal Engine 5 for stunning visuals. The game shows off the oil rig’s details, like flaking paint and reflective surfaces. It also has features for players of all skill levels, making the story accessible to everyone.
If you love atmospheric horror or just want a thrilling survival game, “Still Wakes the Deep” is a must-play. It will leave a lasting impression on your gaming journey.
Alan Wake 2: A Stunning Fusion of Reality and Video Games
The sequel, Alan Wake 2, is a standout in survival horror games. Developed by Remedy Entertainment, it mixes reality and video games perfectly. This creates an immersive experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.
The game’s story is its main highlight. It has everything a horror fan wants. The story comes alive through cutscenes, pulling players into the dark world. The return of the Scandinavian rock soundtrack adds to the atmosphere, making it even more chilling.
The game starts off very scary, even for experienced players. But as you get deeper into Alan Wake 2, you become more confident. You learn to fight and gather resources. Keep going, and you’ll enjoy a thrilling journey that mixes reality and the supernatural.
Why We Love It
- Expertly crafted narrative that seamlessly blends reality and video game elements
- Atmospheric Scandinavian-inspired rock soundtrack that enhances the sense of dread
- Challenging but rewarding gameplay that requires strategic resource management and combat mastery
- Visually stunning environments that rival first-party heavyweights in the industry
- Compelling characters and a storyline that draws players deeper into the Alan Wake universe
“Alan Wake 2 is a masterful fusion of psychological horror and survival-driven gameplay, delivering an unforgettable experience that will haunt players long after the credits have rolled.”
Alan Wake 2 is a must-play for survival horror fans. With its stunning visuals, gripping story, and the return of the Scandinavian rock sound, it’s a game that promises to redefine video games.
Little Nightmares: Childhood Fears Brought to Life
The side-scrolling horror game Little Nightmares lets players face their deepest childhood fears. Tarsier Studios created this survival horror game. It follows Six, a young girl in a yellow raincoat, as she explores The Maw. This is a twisted ship filled with scary creatures.
The game’s world is inspired by fairy tales, filled with fear and curiosity. Players must solve puzzles and face obstacles while feeling scared and weak. The unknown around every corner adds to the game’s tension.
Images of the Holocaust, like piles of shoes, make the game even more disturbing. They hint at losing innocence and finding power. As Six moves through The Maw, she gets powers that show her inner strength.
The original Little Nightmares focused on childhood fears. The sequel, Little Nightmares II, will dive deeper into these themes. The game’s success, with over 2 million copies sold, shows its lasting appeal.
Little Nightmares is a haunting look into the human mind. It invites players to face their childhood fears in a beautiful and scary world.
The Evil Within 2: Nightmarish Psychological Horror
The Evil Within 2 is a sequel to Shinji Mikami’s Resident Evil. It offers a unique blend of gothic looks and psychological horror. Players take on the role of Sebastian Castellanos, diving into a world where reality and nightmares mix.
Released on October 13, 2017, worldwide, and October 19, 2017, in Japan, The Evil Within 2 got high praise. Critics loved its visuals, atmosphere, and gameplay. It has different difficulty modes, from Casual to Akumu, for all players.
The game’s crafting system is a highlight. It lets players gather resources to make important items like ammo. Players can also customize Sebastian’s skills in five areas: health, stealth, combat, recovery, and athleticism.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Modes | Casual, Survival, Nightmare, Classic, Akumu |
| Crafting System | Gather resources to craft items like ammo |
| Customization | Upgrade Sebastian’s abilities across 5 categories |
| First-Person Perspective | Added in a free update, enhancing the horror experience |
| Visual Style | Transition from 2.5:1 to a different aspect ratio |
The game’s visuals, thanks to the STEM engine, create a haunting atmosphere. Players face many terrifying enemies, including the Anima. This adds to the game’s psychological horror.
The Evil Within 2 is a standout in survival horror. It offers a nightmarish journey for horror fans. Its mix of gothic looks, psychological horror, and intense gameplay makes it a must-play.
Horror Video Games: Multiplayer Thrills in Dead By Daylight
Dead By Daylight is a multiplayer game that’s truly scary. It shows you can face horror with friends. One player is a killer, while four others try to escape. They must work together to avoid the killer.
Playing with friends requires a lot of teamwork and trust. Survivors need to communicate well to outsmart the killer. The game’s unpredictability makes every match exciting and sometimes funny.
- Dead By Daylight features a 4vs1 multiplayer style, where 5 players are involved in the gameplay, leading to unexpected moments and jump scares.
- Players can choose to play as either the Killer or Survivor, offering a balanced thrill experience for all participants.
- The game includes iconic characters from renowned horror franchises, further enhancing the gameplay with diverse personalities and backstories.
- Both Killers and Survivors can unlock unique perks and customizations, allowing players to tailor their strategies to their individual preferences.
Dead By Daylight offers intense and unpredictable gameplay. It’s a multiplayer horror game that keeps players on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re stalking prey or trying to escape, it’s thrilling.
“Dead By Daylight sees more than 1.5 million people playing every day, showcasing its enduring popularity among horror game enthusiasts.”
The Mortuary Assistant: A Disturbingly Immersive Experience
Get ready to be scared by “The Mortuary Assistant,” a chilling supernatural horror game. You play as Rebecca Owens, a night shift mortuary assistant. You’ll be surrounded by fear and the eerie presence of the dead.
This game is known for its deep commitment to atmospheric horror. It mixes body horror with a spooky atmosphere. You’ll do tasks like preparing corpses for burial, all while waiting for the unexpected.
Why We Love It
“The Mortuary Assistant” has won over horror fans with its edge-of-your-seat gameplay. It has a 92% positive rating from 5,598 user reviews. Clearly, it has hit the mark for those looking for a deep and scary supernatural horror game.
- Haunting atmosphere that permeates every moment, creating a constant sense of unease
- Skillful integration of body horror elements, heightening the game’s disturbing nature
- Captivating 10+ hours of content for players to dive into the chilling narrative
- Mature content warning for disturbing imagery, drug references, self-harm, and strong language
Whether you’re a horror fan or new to it, “The Mortuary Assistant” offers a deeply disturbing experience. It will stay with you long after the game ends.
“The Mortuary Assistant is a must-play for any fan of supernatural and body horror. The game’s unrelenting ominous tone and unsettling atmosphere make it a chilling and unforgettable experience.”
Little Nightmares: Hauntingly Ugly Enemies in a Chilling World
In Little Nightmares, the real horror isn’t just the creepy setting. It’s the ugly enemies that players face. This game makes you feel small and scared, thanks to its side-scrolling survival horror style.
The game is full of giant, creepy creatures. You’ll meet the Janitor, a huge figure with a weird face. And the Chefs, who live in symmetrical houses, adding to the game’s eerie feel.
The game’s camera angles and shadows make you feel trapped. Chase scenes are truly terrifying. You must always be ready to hide or run from these monsters, adding to the game’s intense fear.
The game’s world is also very detailed. Rooms like the Hanging Rooms and Drawings Room show the game’s deep story. Little Nightmares is a lesson in creating a scary, atmospheric world with terrifying enemies.
Phasmophobia: The Terror of Ghost Hunting
Phasmophobia is a game that lets players team up to explore haunted places. It was released on PC in September 2020. Players can use tools like cameras and thermometers to find ghosts.
The game is known for its intense fear. Players must figure out what kind of ghost they’re facing. If the ghost gets angry, they have to hide and plan their next move.
Why We Love It
Phasmophobia taps into our deepest fears. It’s all about teamwork and working together. Each ghost is different, making the game even scarier.
It has received great reviews, with 96% of users loving it. Players keep coming back for the thrill. It’s a top choice for horror fans.
“A truly terrifying psychological online co-op ghost hunting experience.”
– PC Gamer
| Key Statistics | Value |
|---|---|
| Early Access Release Date | September 2020 |
| Maximum Players | 4 |
| Steam User Reviews (Last 30 Days) | Very Positive (93% out of 4,972 reviews) |
| Overall Steam User Reviews | Overwhelmingly Positive (96% out of 579,796 reviews) |
SIGNALIS: A Top-Down Survival Horror Masterpiece
In the world of survival horror, a game stands out: SIGNALIS. Developed by Rose-Engine, it combines classic horror with a gripping story. This game explores cosmic horror in a unique way.
Players take on Elster, a Replika Unit searching for her partner, Ariane. The game is set in a creepy world. Here, reality and the unknown mix in a scary way.
SIGNALIS draws from the PlayStation 1 era, like Silent Hill and Resident Evil. It offers a tense, immersive experience. The game is full of cryptic clues and relentless enemies, keeping players tense.
Managing your inventory and making smart choices are key in SIGNALIS. Resources like ammo and health are rare. Players must explore, solve puzzles, and use their supplies wisely to survive.
The game’s visuals mix retro-futuristic and cyberpunk styles, creating a unique look. Its soundtrack adds to the atmosphere, moving from eerie to calming. This makes the game both beautiful and scary.
SIGNALIS is a must-play for survival horror fans. It has a compelling story, a great atmosphere, and challenging gameplay. Its price makes it accessible to many, offering a chilling adventure.
“SIGNALIS is a survival horror masterpiece that draws inspiration from the genre’s golden era, delivering a captivating narrative and a tense, atmospheric experience that will linger long after the final credits roll.”
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice: Psychological Horror at Its Finest
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a gripping psychological horror game. It pulls players into Senua’s world, showing her psychosis and mental struggles. Ninja Theory, a British studio, created this game. It blends puzzles with intense action, making it unforgettable.
The game’s audio is a standout feature. It uses binaural audio for an immersive soundscape. The constant voices in Senua’s mind keep players tense. This audio design reflects Senua’s mental battles, making her quest feel urgent.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice focuses on trauma, violence, and mental illness. Senua is a strong, determined hero. Her story is dark and explores the impact of trauma, making the game deeply immersive.
Why we love it
- Masterful depiction of psychosis and mental illness, challenging players to confront their own preconceptions
- Intense and brutally challenging combat that mirrors Senua’s psychological struggles
- Captivating narrative that blends elements of revenge and the Orpheus myth
- Stunning visual design and audio experience that heighten the sense of immersion
- Thought-provoking exploration of the effects of violence and trauma on the human psyche
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a psychological horror masterpiece. It offers a deeply immersive and emotionally powerful experience. Players will remember it long after it ends.
“Hellblade is easily one of the most immersive games of recent times, delivering a masterpiece of psychological horror that challenges players in unique and unsettling ways.”
Five Nights at Freddy’s: The YouTube Phenomenon
The indie horror game Five Nights at Freddy’s has taken the gaming world by storm. It has captured audiences with its eerie animatronics and heart-pounding jump scares. Developer Scott Cawthon created this unique survival horror experience.
It has thrilled players and found immense success on YouTube. Five Nights at Freddy’s was initially well-received. But it was its rise on YouTube that really boosted its popularity.
Markiplier’s video “WARNING: SCARIEST GAME IN YEARS” has over 114 million views. It showcased the game’s terrifying mechanics and captivating lore. This drew in legions of new fans.
The rapid release of Five Nights at Freddy’s sequels in 2015 fueled the franchise’s momentum. By March 2015, the series had sold over 33.5 million units. This cemented its status as a true horror gaming phenomenon.
With its attention-grabbing animatronics, jump scares, and intricate lore, Five Nights at Freddy’s has become a cultural icon. The game’s playthroughs rank 8th on YouTube’s all-time list of most watched video games. This shows the YouTube platform’s power in amplifying the game’s reach and popularity.
The success of Five Nights at Freddy’s has led to a wide range of merchandise. This includes action figures, bobble heads, costumes, and stationery. The franchise has also expanded beyond the game itself. It has released books, comics, and various spinoff titles, solidifying its status as a true horror gaming juggernaut.
“Five Nights at Freddy’s had an opening weekend earning $80 million, making it the third-biggest debut in horror history, just beneath the It duology.”
Despite mixed critical reception, with a 28% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Five Nights at Freddy’s has captured the hearts of many. It has become a true YouTube phenomenon and a beloved staple in the horror gaming genre.
The Forest: Open-World Survival Horror
The Forest is a thrilling open-world survival game. Players find themselves on a scary island full of cannibals. They must gather resources, build a base, and fight off mutants.
The game has a strong story about finding a lost son. It makes players feel like they’re really fighting for survival.
With a 95% positive review rate in the last 30 days, The Forest is highly praised. It has a 95% overall positivity score from over 474,000 reviews. Players love its scary atmosphere, detailed crafting, and smart enemy AI.
| System Requirements | Windows 7 | Windows 10 and later |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Dual-Core 2.4 GHz | Quad Core Processor |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM | 4 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce 8800GT | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560 |
| Storage | 5 GB available space | 5 GB available space |
The Forest has a big map with many cannibal tribes. Players must manage resources, craft, and explore. They need to keep a light source going and defend against island monsters.
The game supports 8-player co-op. Friends can work together to face the island’s dangers. It runs smoothly on high-end systems and has lots of community help.
“The Forest is a masterful blend of survival, horror, and exploration that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The attention to detail and immersive atmosphere are truly impressive.”
Released in 2018, The Forest sold over 5.3 million copies on PC by the end of that year. It has a Metacritic score of 83/100 on PC and 78/100 on PS4. Critics praised its gameplay and story.
The Forest’s success led to a sequel, Sons of the Forest, released on February 23, 2023. It shows the open-world survival horror genre’s potential for deep, scary, and engaging games.
Conclusion
The horror video game genre offers some of the most thrilling and terrifying experiences. Classics like Resident Evil and Silent Hill, along with bold indie titles, provide spine-chilling adventures. These games offer everything from intense survival horror to mind-bending psychological thrills and jump scares.
As the industry grows, we can look forward to even more terrifying and innovative games. The impact of pacing, setting, and gameplay on player engagement is key. Audio and visual design also play a crucial role in creating immersive horror experiences.
Whether you love supernatural horror, zombie games, or slasher-inspired thrills, there’s something for everyone. The industry is always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We can expect even more chilling and unforgettable experiences that will leave a lasting impact on players.
FAQ
What are some of the best horror games released in recent years?
Recent years have seen some top horror games. Alan Wake 2 and the Resident Evil 4 remake are among them. Amnesia: The Bunker, The Last of Us Part 2, and the Dead Space remake are also favorites. Still Wakes the Deep and Little Nightmares round out the list.
What makes The Last of Us Part 2 such a standout horror game?
The Last of Us Part 2 is known for its emotional depth. It explores themes of vengeance and moral ambiguity. The game’s intense scenes and use of visuals and sound make it stand out.
Why is the Dead Space remake considered a modern classic?
The Dead Space remake is a survival horror masterpiece. It recreates the haunted USG Ishimura space station with great detail. The lighting and combat mechanics make it scarier than ever.
What makes Still Wakes the Deep stand out as an immersive horror experience?
Still Wakes the Deep tells a gripping story of an electrician on an oil rig. It builds tension through its setting and acting. The game captures the dreariness of working on an oil rig.
What sets Alan Wake 2 apart as a survival horror game?
Alan Wake 2 has a beautifully woven story. It combines reality and video games with great cutscenes and music. The game starts off scary but gets more rewarding as you play.
How does the side-scrolling format of Little Nightmares build tension?
Little Nightmares’ side-scrolling format keeps players on edge. The game’s setting and enemies create a sense of helplessness and dread. Players must sneak past or escape from the hauntingly ugly enemies.
What makes The Evil Within 2 a standout in the survival horror genre?
The Evil Within 2 has a gothic setting and creative monsters. It modernizes Japanese horror with unforgettable scare tactics. The game follows protagonist Sebastian Castellanos as he navigates his own mind.
What makes Dead By Daylight a uniquely scary multiplayer experience?
Dead By Daylight is a multiplayer game where one player is a killer and four others flee. It creates a thrilling experience that requires teamwork. The game’s hunt and evasion mechanics make it perfect for playing with friends.
Why is The Mortuary Assistant considered one of the scariest games?
The Mortuary Assistant is known for its ominous tone and body imagery. Players work in a mortuary, expecting jump scares. The game’s atmosphere creates a disturbing experience for fans of supernatural horror.
How does Little Nightmares create a sense of helplessness and terror?
Little Nightmares uses camera angles and shadows to build tension. Players navigate a world too big for the protagonist, Six. The game’s chase sequences are terrifying, making it a standout horror game.
What makes Phasmophobia so terrifying for players?
Phasmophobia forces players to explore haunted locations alone. They must communicate with ghosts through microphones. The game’s ability to respond to players makes it a frightening experience.
What makes SIGNALIS a masterful survival horror game?
SIGNALIS has a haunting atmosphere and cryptic notes. Its enemies are hard to kill, making players mindful of resources. The game’s story and setting create a tense experience.
How does Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice deliver a masterpiece of psychological horror?
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice portrays Senua’s psychosis realistically. The game’s eerie sounds and high stakes make it a fearful experience. Players must move cautiously to avoid death.
What made Five Nights at Freddy’s such a popular and influential horror game?
Five Nights at Freddy’s was known for its scary jumpscares. Its management of tasks and resources added to the fear. The game’s lore and popularity among YouTubers made it a hit.
How does The Forest’s open-world survival horror gameplay create a sense of dread?
The Forest’s island is filled with cannibalistic mutants. Players must scavenge and craft to survive. The caves hold the best loot and most horrific mutants, creating a sense of dread.
Source Links
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- SIGNALIS is the Hollow Knight of Survival Horror
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