The best horror games really freak us out. They make us scared, put us up against monsters, and drop us in the most spooky places without a flashlight or a clue why the walls are bleeding or why that cool-looking woman is like 10 feet tall. From indie gems to AAA masterpieces, this list of the best horror games covers every corner of the genre. Whether you're looking for a long-running series or a new game, we've got you covered. Or maybe it should say cowering? We'll be hiding behind the couch if you need us. Read on to find out what the scariest games are.
This game might not look like a scary one at first, but it has a strong sense of cosmic horror in everything it does. This roguelike with a time loop is filled with Lovecraftian alien ruins, monsters with the wrong shape, and the fear of trying not to die every 10 minutes. I know it's a big ask to try this, since it's all about trying to fight through waves of monsters and boss fights that feel impossible. But it has a great mood and a disturbing story that slowly comes together as you learn more about the past and your role in it.
It's old, but it's free and a horror gaming classic. You can't play it online anymore, but it's easy to find a free download you can try. The goal is simple: find eight pages that are scattered around a scary forest without getting caught by the Slender Man. Every time you find a new page, he gets closer and harder to get away from. It's a simple idea, but it's done perfectly, and even though the graphics are like potatoes, it's still scary. You can also play it with your friends and see how far they get.
