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Horror games are my favorite genre, and I can confidently say I’ve seen a lot and know a good deal about the horror genre in general. From survival horror to psychological horror, and just downright comedic horror, there is such a variety of horror games to choose from, which makes ranking them seem pretty impossible. However, through years of experience as well as research and just a silly interest, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best horror games ever.

10 Best Horror Games Ever

Just to clarify, these are in no way ranked or ordered in any specificity. I can provide you with a list of the best horror games ever, but ranking them is another beast altogether. So here is just a general list, and you can rank them as you please.

1. Resident Evil 

Image from Resident Evil. Courtesy of Capcom.

Resident Evil is one of the most iconic horror games to ever be released, spawning a whole franchise of games and films alike. From iconic hero characters like Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield to some of our more recent protagonists like Ethan Winters and Grace Ashcroft, this is the game that started everything.

2. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

Now I put this one on this list purely for the unexpected horror aspect of the game. Resident Evil isn’t necessarily known for its horror; however, Biohazard changed that for the series. It’s known as the scariest Resident Evil game in the franchise, and it’s definitely inspired Konami to make the latest installment of the series, Requiem, just as scary as Biohazard was.

3. Visage

Image of Visage, Courtesy of SadSquare Studio

I’ve written a few articles on Visage, so you know how pleasantly scary it is in terms of horror. It’s one of my favorite horror experiences ever, and one of the very few games I always recommend for people who want to get into horror. The most compelling element of Visage is the mystery and psychological torture you endure as the protagonist and as a player, exploring a house full of horrifying secrets. It’s creepy, disturbing, and really messes with your psyche, not just in-game but in real life.

4. Outlast

Named as the most horrifying game experiences ever, Outlast has become a notoriously popular game known for its body and psychological horror that terrifies players every time we think of it.

5. Little Nightmares

Image of Little Nightmares 3 courtesy of Supermasive Games and Bandai Namco Entertainment

Little Nightmares is one of those games you need to experience just because of its compelling storyline. It’s so memorable, from the terrifying monsters to the beautiful way the game is designed. Another must-play, especially for newbies to the horror genre.  

6. Fatal Frame

This is one of my favorite horror game series I’ve ever come across. I can vividly remember playing each game for the first time. I am pretty biased towards supernatural horror; however, Fatal Frame has such an intricate storyline, and the gameplay is one of my favorites I’ve come across in horror games.

7. Silent Hill 2

Screenshot courtesy of Total Apex Gaming

Now, Silent Hill 2 needs no introduction. It has some of the most iconic horror monsters and villains in the genre, and was one of the main inspirations for the Silent Hill films. This one has definitely got to be on the list.

8. Omori

Now, a lot of people may not know this one. This is one of the more recent games I’ve played and the emotional impact it had on my life is the reason I put this game on the list. The horror aspect of the game is disguised by the cute art style, wholesome interactions, and the funny gameplay. The way the story is intricately woven, and the impact of the ending, had not just me but a whole community of people who resonated with the story. Omori was one of the most engaging horror games I’d played in a very long time, and I enjoyed my experience the whole way through.

9. P.T.

Imag eof P.T., Courtesy of KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS

Now, P.T. isn’t even a full game. It is an interactive trailer that was meant to tease a cancelled Silent Hill game named Silent Hills, and it had such an effect on people because of how scary it was. I had to shine a spotlight on such a memorable horror experience. 

10. Until Dawn

Until Dawn started a trend of games that integrate player choices into the gameplay. Supermassive Games is known for its Dark Anthology series, which spawned because of Until Dawn, and a lot of people would agree with me when I say Until Dawn is still the best of its kind.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Gaming and was syndicated with permission.

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