Top 25 best horror games of all time

Check out the following games if you are passionate about horror games!

Top 25 best horror games of all

Despite being afraid of the dark, all of us have watched horror movies or played horror games. The adrenaline rush and dopamine release we get from the ‘Horror’ Genre is addicting. This is the main reason horror games are successful despite all the jumpscares and goosebumps moments. If you think you’re not afraid of the things living in the shadows and have the guts to venture into the territories of ghosts, monsters or even aliens, then this list is for you.

YouTube video — Markiplier playing the horror game: ‘From The Darkness’

Alien: Isolation

Developers: Creative Assembly, Feral Interactive
Release: 2014
Platforms: Android, PC, PlayStation 3 & 4, Xbox One & 360, iOS, MacOS

If you thought Aliens couldn’t be scary, then Alien Isolation would prove you wrong. Alien Isolation is a survival horror video game that takes place in an Alien universe. The game is set in 2137, fifteen years after the events of the Alien film. The player assumes the role of Amanda Ripley, the daughter of the Alien’s protagonist Ellen Ripley, as she searches for answers about her mother’s disappearance. The game’s primary objective is to avoid the Alien, a highly intelligent creature that can adapt to the player’s strategies.

Furthermore, the game’s environment is designed to be claustrophobic and tense, with limited resources and a constant sense of danger. The player must use stealth, distraction, and resourcefulness to survive while exploring a space station called Sevastopol. The game’s story is told through audio logs and environmental cues, immersing the player in a terrifying world of uncertainty and fear.

Resident Evil Village

Developers: Capcom
Release: 2021
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Amongst the most iconic horror games of all time, the Resident Evil series is a cult classic. The game takes place in a remote European village where the player controls Ethan Winters, a survivor from a previous Resident Evil game. The game’s opening sequence sets the tone for the horror to come, with the player witnessing a brutal attack on Ethan’s wife, Mia. Soon after, Ethan finds himself in the village and discovers that something sinister is going on.

Moreover, the best thing about the game is that it introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to purchase and upgrade weapons from a merchant, adding a new layer of strategy to combat. The village itself is filled with puzzles to solve and secrets to uncover, adding to the sense of exploration and discovery. The game’s villains, including the enigmatic Lady Dimitrescu, are well-designed and memorable. The game also features a variety of enemies, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

Amnesia: The Dark Descent

Developers: Frictional Games
Release: 2010
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Having no recollection of your memories is not fun at all. In addition to this, gaining senses somewhere creepy with no memory of how you got there is much worse. This is the plot of this game and is very apt to its title of ‘Amnesia’. This game follows the main character, Daniel and his descent into insanity. Daniel wakes up in a dark, foreboding castle with no memories of his past. And so he sets out to explore the castle and uncover its secrets. Along the way, he encounters terrifying monsters and supernatural occurrences. He must hide, solve puzzles, and use stealth to avoid being caught by the castle’s inhabitants.

Furthermore, he must maintain his sanity by managing his fear and hiding in the shadows. Ultimately, he discovers the truth about himself and the castle. In addition, the game’s atmosphere is terrifying and immersive, making it a must-play for horror fans.

Dead Space

Developers: Visceral Games
Release: 2008
Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC

Another one of the alien horror classics is Dead Space. Dead Space is a sci-fi horror game with action-packed gameplay. You play as Isaac Clarke, a systems engineer, responding to a distress signal from a spaceship, the USG Ishimura. As you explore the Ishimura, you encounter grotesque and deadly creatures called Necromorphs, who were once the crew. To survive, you need to strategically dismember the Necromorphs and use your limited resources wisely. Isaac’s health is indicated through a “health bar” on his spine, adding to the tension.

The game’s atmosphere is dark and eerie, with flickering lights, creepy sound effects, and haunting music. Dead Space has a gripping story with plot twists and shocking moments, making it an unforgettable gaming experience.

Silent Hill 2

Developers: Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo
Release: 2001
Platforms: PlayStation 2, Xbox, PC

This game is the oldest game on this list, dating back almost 22 years, but it is still really scary. In Silent Hill 2, players take on the role of James Sunderland, a man searching for his deceased wife, Mary. As he wanders through the foggy town of Silent Hill, he is confronted with strange creatures and puzzles that he must solve to uncover the truth about his wife’s death. The game’s atmosphere is dark and eerie, with haunting music and disturbing visuals. Players must navigate through abandoned buildings, solve riddles, and fight off horrific monsters using a limited supply of ammunition.

What’s more, the game’s multiple endings offer different interpretations of the story, making each playthrough a unique experience. Silent Hill 2 is a classic survival horror game that continues to terrify players to this day.

Until Dawn

Developers: Supermassive Games
Release: 2015
Platforms: PlayStation 4

A horror game, where whatever action a player takes can change or create a different outcome? A game filled with horror and mysteries, and the player has to tread carefully so as not to make any mistakes? That’s Until Dawn for you! The game takes place on Blackwood Mountain, where a group of friends gather for a weekend getaway. However, things take a turn for the worse when they become the targets of a mysterious serial killer. The player takes control of different characters throughout the game, making decisions that impact the storyline and ultimately determine who survives. The game features a branching storyline, with multiple possible outcomes based on the player’s choices.

Furthermore, the game is visually stunning, with realistic character models and detailed environments. The sound design is equally important, creating a tense and immersive atmosphere. In addition, the game features quick-time events and interactive cutscenes that keep the player engaged.

Outlast

Developers: Red Barrels
Release: 2013
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

A game that every gamer has played and had that terror-filled experience of their lifetime. Outlast, in all its essence, is a game made to terrify its players and have them experience a real horror. However, the adrenaline rush that accompanies this experience is a plus. The game follows investigative journalist Miles Upshur as he explores the abandoned Mount Massive Asylum. And then, he soon discovers that the asylum is overrun by dangerous and deranged patients. Equally important, the player is defenceless and must use stealth and strategy to evade enemies. Moreover, the game’s emphasis on darkness and limited visibility create a sense of vulnerability and tension.

What’s more, the game’s atmosphere is further heightened by its haunting soundtrack and gruesome sound effects. Besides, the game’s storyline is well-crafted and delivers a satisfying conclusion. Outlast is a terrifying and intense experience that is not for the faint of heart.

Dead by Daylight

Developers: Behaviour Interactive
Release: 2016
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

A game which you can play with your friends and enjoy your time together. Sounds refreshing and peaceful, right? But guess not! That friend of yours, which you rely on so much, may be playing the role of capturer here, trying to win the game by killing all the players. This is the premise of the horror game, Dead by Daylight. Dead by Daylight is a multiplayer survival horror game developed by Behaviour Interactive. Players can take on the role of a survivor trying to escape a killer or the killer trying to sacrifice survivors to the Entity. Furthermore, the game features a variety of unique killers, each with its own abilities and playstyle. And then, survivors must work together to repair generators and escape before being caught.

What’s more, the game’s procedurally generated maps and randomized objectives add to its replay value. Besides, the game features a ranking system, allowing players to compete against each other and earn rewards. Dead by Daylight is a thrilling and intense experience that requires teamwork and strategy to survive.

Eyes Horror & Coop Multiplayer

Developers: Paulina Pabis & Michał Pabis
Release: 2015
Platforms: PC

Another horror game on the lines of multiplayer and coop system, where you play with your friends or strangers. Collaborating with others as you move forward to play the game. Eyes: The Horror Game is a cooperative multiplayer horror game. Players must explore an abandoned haunted mansion to collect valuables while avoiding the wrath of the supernatural creatures haunting it. Moreover, the game’s procedurally generated levels and randomized enemy placement offer a unique experience with each playthrough. And then, players can communicate with each other through in-game chat to coordinate their actions and survive.

Equally important, the game’s haunting atmosphere is further enhanced by its eerie sound effects and unsettling music. Besides, the game features a variety of unlockable characters and difficulty levels for added replayability. Eyes: The Horror Game is a terrifying and challenging multiplayer experience that is sure to keep players on the edge of their seats.

Soma

Developers: Frictional Games
Release: 2015
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

What happens when you fuse together machines, monsters, AI and ravaged facility? What you get is a game filled with mechanical horrors coupled with an eerie atmosphere, best suited for a horror game. SOMA is a first-person survival horror game. The game takes place in an underwater research facility called PATHOS-II, where the player assumes the role of Simon Jarrett, who discovers the facility’s dark secrets. Furthermore, the game’s emphasis on exploration and puzzle-solving creates a compelling narrative that unravels as the player progresses. And then, the game’s horror elements are further amplified by its use of psychological horror and unsettling environments.

Moreover, the game features a variety of enemy types that the player must evade or outsmart. In addition, the game’s atmospheric sound design and music contribute to its immersive experience. SOMA is a thought-provoking and engaging horror game that is sure to leave players contemplating its themes long after completing it.

Little Nightmares

Developers: Tarsier Studios
Release: 2017
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

You’re little and hungry and also are trying to escape from fiends and monsters. Well, yes, that’s the premise of Little Nightmares, but not excluding the horror part. Little Nightmares is a puzzle-platformer horror game. The game follows a young girl named Six as she tries to escape an eerie and sinister world filled with grotesque creatures and obstacles. Moreover, the game’s art style and level design create a unique and unsettling atmosphere that immerses players in its world. And then, the game’s emphasis on stealth and puzzle-solving adds to its challenging and rewarding gameplay.

Furthermore, the game’s story is told through its environments and the actions of the characters, creating a haunting and mysterious narrative. Besides, the game’s soundtrack and sound effects enhance the immersion and tension of the game.

Five Nights at Freddy’s

Developers: Scott Cawthon
Release: 2014
Platforms: PC, iOS, Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

This game showed how scary jumpscare and no activity can be. Sitting behind some screens without actually being in the eerie field is no less scary. That’s Five Nights At Freddy’s for you. Five Nights at Freddy’s is a survival horror game. The game is set in a fictional pizza restaurant called Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, where the player assumes the role of a night security guard. Moreover, the game’s unique gameplay mechanics involve monitoring the restaurant’s security cameras and shutting doors to prevent animatronic characters from entering the security office. And then, the game’s jump scares and tense atmosphere make for a thrilling and terrifying experience.

Furthermore, the game’s story is told through hidden clues and easter eggs, creating deeper lore and mystery for players to uncover. Lastly, the success of the game has spawned multiple sequels and spin-offs, cementing its status as a popular horror franchise.

BioShock

Developers: Irrational Games
Release: 2007
Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC

First Person Shooters can’t be that scary, right? BioShock is here to break that stereotype. The game is set in an underwater city called Rapture, which was created as a utopia by businessman Andrew Ryan. Moreover, the game’s story explores themes of objectivism, individualism, and free will, creating a thought-provoking and engaging narrative. And then the game’s gameplay mechanics involve using various weapons and abilities to fight enemies and explore the city’s secrets.

Furthermore, the game’s art Deco aesthetic and immersive world-building make for a visually stunning and captivating experience. Lastly, BioShock’s critical and commercial success has made it a beloved and influential game in the video game industry.

Alan Wake

Developers: Remedy Entertainment
Release: 2010
Platforms: Xbox 360, PC

Another one of those ‘finding your significant other in a scary neighbourhood while simultaneously fighting off supernatural beings’. Alan Wake is a psychological horror game. The game follows the eponymous writer as he investigates the disappearance of his wife in a small town called Bright Falls. Moreover, the game’s story is told through a mix of gameplay and episodic narrative, creating a unique and immersive experience. And then, the game’s use of light and darkness as gameplay mechanics adds to its tension and atmosphere.

Furthermore, the game’s world-building and character development create a rich and engaging story. Lastly, Alan Wake’s critical and commercial success has made it a cult classic and a fan favourite in the horror genre.

Phasmophobia

Developers: Kinetic Games
Release: 2020
Platforms: PC

A game where you play with your friends and enter sites considered to be haunted. Pretty generic, don’t you think? Well, what if you have to use equipment to determine what type of supernatural being you’re dealing with? And you can also talk and ask them questions. That’s Phasmophobia, a cooperative horror game for you. The game puts players in the shoes of paranormal investigators tasked with uncovering evidence of ghosts haunting various locations. Moreover, the game’s unique use of real-time voice recognition technology adds an extra layer of immersion and strategy to gameplay. And then, the game’s mechanics require players to use a variety of tools and tactics to gather evidence and avoid being hunted by the ghost.

Furthermore, the game’s procedurally generated levels and randomized ghost behaviour create a fresh and unpredictable experience with each playthrough. Lastly, Phasmophobia’s popularity has made it a cultural phenomenon and a standout title in the horror game genre.

Bloodborne

Bloodbourne — (source: FromSoftware Inc. Official Website)

Developers: FromSoftware Inc.
Release: 2015
Platforms: PlayStation 4

All Souls games are scary due to the millions of times our characters die while fighting. But add pitch-dark settings with supernatural beings, and you have yourself a good horror game. Where you fight, then die. Then, fight again. And then, you die again. That’s Bloodborne for you, an action RPG. The game takes place in the fictional city of Yharnam, a gothic and horror-inspired world filled with Lovecraftian creatures and cosmic horrors. Moreover, the game’s combat system is fast-paced and challenging, requiring precision and strategy to overcome enemies. And then, the game’s exploration and world-building are equally important, with hidden areas and secrets waiting to be discovered.

Furthermore, the game’s themes of cosmic horror and human suffering are explored in its narrative and lore, adding depth and meaning to the game’s world. Lastly, Bloodborne’s critical and commercial success has cemented it as one of the greatest games of all time and a must-play for fans of the horror and RPG genres.

Darkwood

Developers: Acid Wizard Studio
Release: 2017
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Navigating through a dark and scary atmosphere is always horrifying. But add collecting resources and escaping from dangers lurking in the shadows? Horror in its true sense. Darkwood is a survival horror game set in a mysterious forest. Players must scavenge for resources and defend themselves against the monsters that lurk in the darkness. The game’s top-down perspective adds to the feeling of isolation and vulnerability. Besides surviving, players must also make choices that affect the game’s narrative. Exploring the forest reveals secrets and clues that add to the game’s atmosphere.

Furthermore, the game’s sound design and visuals are equally important in creating a tense and eerie environment. The gameplay is challenging but rewarding, and players must strategize and plan their actions carefully. Finally, Darkwood offers a unique and immersive horror experience that is not to be missed.

Condemned: Criminal Origins

Developers: Monolith Productions
Release: 2005
Platforms: Xbox 360, PC

Now we remove supernatural beings from the mix and add criminals to it. Will it still be scary? The answer is Condemned: Criminal Origins. Condemned: Criminal Origins is a first-person psychological horror game. Players take on the role of FBI agent Ethan Thomas, tasked with solving a series of brutal crimes. And while investigating, players must fight off the deranged criminals who stalk the game’s dark and eerie environments. The game’s melee combat system is a standout feature, and players can use various weapons to dispatch enemies.

Furthermore, the game’s forensic tools are equally important in solving the game’s puzzles and uncovering clues. Besides the gameplay, the game’s atmosphere is immersive and unsettling, with the sound design and visuals adding to the tension. Lastly, the game’s story is intriguing, with twists and turns that keep players engaged throughout. Condemned: Criminal Origins is a must-play for horror game fans.

The Last of Us

Developers: Naughty Dog
Release: 2013
Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC

The most iconic cinematic masterpiece of a game. And It’s also coupled with horrors and other nerve-wracking things. The Last of Us is not just a game to its players but an emotion. The Last of Us is an action-adventure game that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. Players control Joel, a smuggler, and Ellie, a young girl, as they navigate a dangerous and infected world. The game’s story is emotional and engaging, and the relationship between Joel and Ellie is the heart of the game. And besides fighting infected and other survivors, players must also scavenge for resources and craft weapons.

Furthermore, the game’s sound design is equally important in creating a tense and immersive experience. The game’s level design and graphics are stunning and add to the game’s atmosphere. Lastly, The Last of Us is a masterpiece that is not to be missed by any gamer.

Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem

Developers: Silicon Knights
Release: 2002
Platforms: Nintendo GameCube

Multiple characters, multiple plotlines. Fighting with unique abilities and solving puzzles in a horror-filled environment. Pretty much explains Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem. It is a psychological horror game that takes players on a journey through time. And players take on the role of multiple characters, each with their own unique abilities and storylines. Besides fighting enemies, players must solve puzzles that require them to use their wits and explore the game’s intricate environments. Furthermore, the game’s sanity system is equally important in creating an immersive horror experience. As players progress, their characters’ sanity will deteriorate, causing hallucinations and other unsettling effects.

What’s more, the game’s story is well-crafted and filled with twists and turns that keep players engaged. Lastly, the game’s sound design and visuals are impressive, further enhancing the game’s eerie atmosphere. Eternal Darkness is a must-play for horror game fans looking for a unique and unsettling experience.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

Developers: Capcom
Release: 2017
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation VR

Another banger from the Resident Evil series, which gives a whole new meaning to bioweapons. Ever thought that interacting with a p*ychopathic family in an eerie home while searching for your wife would be scary? Well, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard will change your viewpoint of the horror experience. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a first-person survival horror game that takes place in a dilapidated Louisiana plantation. Players take on the role of Ethan Winters, searching for his missing wife. Besides fighting off the game’s grotesque enemies, players must also solve puzzles to progress. And the game’s inventory management system adds to the game’s challenge. Furthermore, the game’s atmosphere is immersive and unsettling, with the sound design and visuals adding to the tension.

What’s more, the game’s VR mode is an impressive and terrifying addition. Lastly, the game’s story is well-crafted, with ties to the Resident Evil franchise. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a must-play for horror game fans looking for a modern and terrifying experience.

P.T.

Developers: Kojima Productions
Release: 2014
Platforms: PlayStation 4

Ever thought a teaser to another game can make your skin crawl? Well, P.T., a.k.a Playable Teaser, gives you the horror experience you can’t expect. It’s a psychological horror game that was released as a teaser for the cancelled game Silent Hills. And players take on the role of an unnamed protagonist trapped in a looping hallway. Besides exploring the environment, players must solve puzzles that reveal more about the game’s story. Furthermore, the game’s atmosphere is immersive and terrifying, with the sound design and visuals adding to the tension.

What’s more, the game’s twist ending shocked and surprised players. Lastly, the game’s innovative use of the first-person perspective added to the game’s horror experience. P.T. is a must-play for horror game fans looking for a unique and unsettling experience. Unfortunately, the game is no longer available for download.

Slender: The Arrival

Developers: Blue Isle Studios
Release: 2013
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

We have all heard about the lore of The Slender Man. Imagine playing a game where you need to escape from him. Sshhh or the Slender Man may hear you! Slender: The Arrival is a first-person survival horror game that follows the player as they navigate a dark forest. And players must collect pages while avoiding the game’s antagonist, the Slender Man. Besides the main game, players can also play the game’s additional modes, including the multiplayer mode.

Furthermore, the game’s atmosphere is immersive and terrifying, with the sound design and visuals adding to the tension. What’s more, the game’s story is intriguing, with clues scattered throughout the game’s levels. Lastly, the game’s difficulty adds to the game’s challenge, with the Slender Man being an ever-present threat. Slender: The Arrival is a must-play for horror game fans looking for a unique and terrifying experience.

Outlast 2

Developers: Red Barrels
Release: 2017
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

The sequel to the groundbreaking horror game, Outlast. Spooky Town? Check! Missing Wife? Check! Frenzied Townsfolk? Check! Bloody Gameplay? Massive Check! Outlast 2 is a first-person survival horror game that follows investigative journalist Blake Langermann as he searches for his missing wife in a remote Arizona town. And players must navigate through the town while avoiding enemies and solving puzzles. Besides the main game, players can also play the game’s additional modes, including the demo, The Outlast Trials.

Furthermore, the game’s atmosphere is immersive and unsettling, with the sound design and visuals adding to the horror experience. What’s more, the game’s story is well-crafted, with ties to the Outlast universe. Lastly, the game’s difficulty adds to the game’s challenge, with players being forced to use their wits to survive. Outlast 2 is a must-play for horror game fans looking for a modern and terrifying experience

Layers of Fear

Developers: Bloober Team
Release: 2016
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Paintings are always soothing and peaceful, right? Not in this game, no. Layers of Fear is a first-person psychological horror game that immerses players in the mind of an out-of-control painter. And players explore a constantly shifting and distorted environment as they unravel the story of the painter’s descent into madness. Moreover, the game’s unique visual style adds to its unsettling atmosphere, with the environment constantly changing and warping.

Furthermore, the game’s sound design is equally important, with an immersive and haunting soundtrack that heightens the game’s tension. Besides, the game’s story is well-crafted, with multiple endings depending on the player’s choices. Lastly, Layers of Fear is a must-play for horror game fans looking for a truly immersive and psychological experience.

If you’re looking for a burst of horror and terrified screams, do play these games!!