Best Horror games on Steam
Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated horror games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free horror games are available at the bottom of the page.
Corpse Party: Blood Drive
Set two months after Corpse Party: Book of Shadows, Corpse Party: Blood Drive is the definitive conclusion to the long-running Heavenly Host story arc. Featuring dynamic lighting, 3D sound, detailed environments, and new gameplay systems, this is a Japanese horror experience not to be missed!We Were Here Together
As we explore these frozen wastes, misfortune strikes once again. Through the fierce blizzard, a flare lights the sky, followed by a cry for help over the radio - broken, dying... No one else can come to their rescue. Can we make it back - together?PAGUI打鬼
Major 2022 update with 10 languages and a new chapter! PAGUI is a two-chapter story based on true events from Taiwan's history. An orphan raised on temple grounds learned of his family’s past. He decided to set out on a journey to uncover his family’s past and own identity.School Years
A visual novel adapted from a real story.To tell the most authentic Chinese story in the most simple wordsThe Wild Eight
The Wild Eight is an intense survival action-adventure set in the frozen wilderness of Alaska. Team up with friends in online co-op or go solo, explore the mysterious land, craft weapons and fight to live another day.Nobodies: Murder Cleaner
Nobodies is a puzzle-filled point-and-click adventure in which you must cover up government-sanctioned assassinations. Hide the bodies, destroy the evidence, and leave no trace you were ever there. They do the dirty work. You clean it up.GOLD EXPRESS
New AI character "Punch" is available now! Welcome to the Project "Gold Express"! It is a cyberpunk style asymmetric multiplayer game in which you can get new survival experience with your teammates with various abilities in the strategic maps.Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones
Delve into a role-playing game of horror, loss and madness set in the strange worlds of HP Lovecraft. Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones offers a mix of rich role-playing and turn-based tactical combat, represented in an illustrative visual style. Can you find salvation in a dead world?Intruders: Hide and Seek
Intruders: Hide and Seek is a first-person stealth game, an intense thriller combining intense psychological terror with the point of view of a defenseless boy.Tales of the Black Forest
In a world filled with yōkai, a surging dark power has overshadowed a Japanese town. A group of 2 developers have produced a Japanese pixel adventure game to tell a tale that dates back to the Heisei era...In the name of dreams and passion.The Executioner
The Executioner puts you in the shoes of a man who tortures people for a living while trying to retain his own sanity. In this game the monster isn’t lurking behind you. You are the monster, if you choose to become one.The Long Drive
Random generated open world semi-post apocalyptic survival car driving game.Palmyra Orphanage
Paranormal first-person horror, which takes place in an abandoned orphanage. Walk through the corridors of your childhood, but do remember that you're not only one here.Home Sweet Home EP2
Terror and mystery meet in Home Sweet Home Sweet Home Episode 2, the sequel to last year’s cult-hit first-person horror game, Home Sweet Home. Immerse yourself in a world where evil hides behind every corner, in a world inspired by Thai folklore and mythology.[Chilla's Art] Aka Manto | 赤マント
Aka Manto (赤マント Red Cloak), aka Red Cape or Red Mantle, is a Japanese urban legend about a masked spirit who wears a red cloak, and who appears to people using public or school restrooms.Jenny LeClue - Detectivu
JENNY LECLUE is an adventure game focused on exploration, story, and character, featuring dozens of characters to meet, mysteries and puzzles to solve across a vibrant, atmospheric world.Little Misfortune
Led by her new friend, Mr. Voice, Misfortune ventures into the woods, where mysteries are unraveled and a little bad luck unfolds.Daymare: 1998
DAYMARE: 1998 is a third-person survival horror game that recreates the mood of iconic titles from the '90s, with a fresh storyline. An incident that turns a small town into a deadly zone, three characters to play with and little time to find the truth, before its mutated citizens abruptly end your mission.AI: The Somnium Files
Play as detective Kaname Date on the case of an elusive serial killer in this thrilling, sci-fi murder mystery.Blasphemous
Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer with skilled hack’n slash combat set in the nightmare world of Cvstodia. Explore, upgrade your abilities, and perform savage executions on the hordes of enemies that stand between you and your quest to break eternal damnation.Hellsplit: Arena
VR horror-slasher with physically correct combat system and dynamic battles across arenas in the dark fantasy world.Horror games have a unique ability to evoke fear, suspense, and adrenaline, drawing players into chilling narratives and terrifying environments. Whether you’re a seasoned horror aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, there’s something thrilling about facing your fears in a virtual world.
What Makes a Great Horror Game?
Atmosphere
A great horror game excels in creating an immersive atmosphere. This is achieved through a combination of haunting sound design, eerie visuals, and unsettling environments. The right soundtrack can heighten tension, while ambient sounds can make players feel as though they are not alone. Games like {game_name_link:2124490} and {game_name_link:57300} are prime examples of how atmosphere can enhance the horror experience.
Storytelling
Compelling storytelling is crucial in horror games. A well-crafted narrative can draw players in, making them emotionally invested in the characters and their fates. Games that weave intricate plots with unexpected twists, such as {game_name_link:1196590} and {game_name_link:1304930} keep players on the edge of their seats, wondering what will happen next.
Gameplay Mechanics
Effective gameplay mechanics are essential for maintaining tension. Many horror games incorporate puzzles, resource management, and survival elements that force players to think critically while under pressure. The balance between combat and stealth can also significantly impact the experience, as seen in titles like {game_name_link:268050} and {game_name_link:1693980}.
Top Categories of Horror Games
Survival Horror
Survival horror games focus on resource management and the struggle to survive against overwhelming odds. Players often find themselves in terrifying situations with limited ammunition and health, making every decision critical. Notable examples include {game_name_link:883710} and {game_name_link:282140}.
Psychological Horror
Psychological horror games delve into the mind, creating fear through atmosphere and narrative rather than relying solely on jump scares. These games often explore themes of madness and existential dread. Titles like {game_name_link:391720} and {game_name_link:2124490} exemplify this category.
Action Horror
Action horror games combine horror elements with fast-paced action and combat. Players face hordes of enemies while navigating terrifying environments. Games like {game_name_link:782330} and {game_name_link:1684930} offer thrilling gameplay that keeps players engaged while delivering scares.
Indie Horror
Indie horror games often showcase creativity and unique experiences that set them apart from mainstream titles. These games can range from short, atmospheric experiences to longer narratives. Notable indie horror games include {game_name_link:739630} and {game_name_link:424840}.
How to Choose the Right Horror Game for You
Personal Preferences
Consider what type of horror you enjoy most. Do you prefer psychological tension, jump scares, or action-packed gameplay? Understanding your preferences will help you select a game that aligns with your tastes.
Game Length
Horror games vary in length, with some offering short, intense experiences and others providing lengthy narratives. Check the average playtime of a game to ensure it fits your gaming schedule.
Multiplayer vs. Single Player
Decide whether you want to experience horror alone or with friends. Multiplayer horror games, like {game_name_link:739630} can be more fun and less intimidating when shared with others, while single-player titles often provide a more immersive and personal experience.
Tips for Enhancing Your Horror Gaming Experience
Play in the Right Environment
To fully immerse yourself in the horror experience, consider playing in a dark room with minimal distractions. Using headphones can significantly enhance the sound design, making every creak and whisper feel more intense. The right environment can amplify the fear factor and make the gameplay more engaging.
Adjust Settings
Take the time to adjust the graphics and sound settings to suit your preferences. Increasing the brightness can help if you find it too dark, while tweaking the sound settings can enhance the atmospheric effects. Many horror games also offer options for subtitles, which can help you catch important dialogue and enhance immersion.
Play with Friends
If you’re feeling apprehensive about playing a horror game alone, consider teaming up with friends. Multiplayer horror games, like {game_name_link:739630} or {game_name_link:381210} can provide a shared experience that makes the scares more enjoyable. Plus, having friends around can lighten the mood during particularly tense moments.
What are the best horror games for beginners?
For newcomers to the horror genre, titles like {game_name_link:424840} and {game_name_link:883710} offer accessible gameplay with engaging stories and manageable scares. These games provide a good balance of challenge and enjoyment without overwhelming players.
Are there any free horror games on Steam?
Yes, there are several free horror games available on Steam. Titles like {game_name_link:698780} and {game_name_link:223710} offer unique horror experiences without any cost. Keep an eye on the indie section for more free options.
How do I find new horror games?
To discover new horror games, utilize the filtering options on this page. You can search by user ratings or release date to find the latest and most popular horror titles.
What should I do if a game is too scary?
If you find a game too frightening, consider taking breaks or playing with friends to ease the tension. You can also adjust the difficulty settings if available, or watch gameplay videos to familiarize yourself with the game before diving in.
The world of horror games on Steam is vast and varied, offering something for every type of player. Whether you prefer survival horror, psychological thrills, or action-packed scares, there’s a title waiting to send chills down your spine. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different styles and gameplay mechanics to find what resonates with you.
Be sure to check back regularly for updates, as we’ll continue to add new horror games and keep you informed about the latest releases in the genre. Happy gaming, and may your nightmares be thrilling!
Most played horror games on Steam
Take a look at the top horror games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of April 16th 2025.
1. R.E.P.O.
An online co-op horror game with up to 6 players. Locate valuable, fully physics-based objects and handle them with care as you retrieve and extract to satisfy your creator's desires. R.E.P.O. is a horror, online co-op and comedy game developed and published by semiwork. Released on February 26th 2025 has received 105,828 reviews of which 102,099 were positive and 3,729 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played horror game, thanks to its 89,976 peak concurrent players over the last day.2. Dead by Daylight
Trapped forever in a realm of eldritch evil where even death is not an escape, four determined Survivors face a bloodthirsty Killer in a vicious game of nerve and wits. Pick a side and step into a world of tension and terror with horror gaming's best asymmetrical multiplayer. Dead by Daylight is a horror, multiplayer and survival horror game developed and published by Behaviour Interactive Inc.. Released on June 14th 2016 has received 786,824 reviews of which 621,871 were positive and 164,953 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. While seeing 37,251 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among horror games based on player count.3. Once Human
Once Human is a multiplayer open-world survival game set in a strange, post-apocalyptic future. Unite with friends to fight monstrous enemies, uncover secret plots, compete for resources, and build your own territory. Once, you were merely human. Now, you have the power to remake the world. Once Human is a multiplayer, free to play and open world survival craft game developed and published by Starry Studio. Released on July 09th 2024 has received 124,888 reviews of which 92,215 were positive and 32,673 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. While seeing 14,237 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among horror games based on player count.4. Phasmophobia
Phasmophobia is a 4 player online co-op psychological horror. Paranormal activity is on the rise and it’s up to you and your team to use all the ghost-hunting equipment at your disposal in order to gather as much evidence as you can. Phasmophobia is a horror, online co-op and multiplayer game developed and published by Kinetic Games. Released on September 18th 2020 has received 762,073 reviews of which 730,347 were positive and 31,726 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 10,531 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played horror games.5. Warhammer 40,000: Darktide
Take back the city of Tertium from hordes of bloodthirsty foes in this intense and brutal action shooter. Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is the new co-op focused experience from the award-winning team behind the Vermintide series. As Tertium falls, Rejects Will Rise. Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is a action-adventure, horror and combat game developed and published by Fatshark. Released on November 30th 2022 has received 111,015 reviews of which 78,530 were positive and 32,485 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.0 out of 10. With 4,196 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played horror games.6. Resident Evil 4
Survival is just the beginning. Six years have passed since the biological disaster in Raccoon City. Leon S. Kennedy, one of the survivors, tracks the president's kidnapped daughter to a secluded European village, where there is something terribly wrong with the locals. Resident Evil 4 is a horror, action and survival horror game developed and published by CAPCOM Co. and Ltd.. Released on March 23rd 2023 has received 175,627 reviews of which 171,577 were positive and 4,050 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 3,535 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played horror games.7. Lethal Company
A co-op horror about scavenging at abandoned moons to sell scrap to the Company. Lethal Company is a online co-op, horror and first-person game developed and published by Zeekerss. Released on October 23rd 2023 has received 483,834 reviews of which 470,426 were positive and 13,408 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 3,505 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played horror games.8. The Forest
As the lone survivor of a passenger jet crash, you find yourself in a mysterious forest battling to stay alive against a society of cannibalistic mutants. Build, explore, survive in this terrifying first person survival horror simulator. The Forest is a open world survival craft, survival and open world game developed and published by Endnight Games Ltd. Released on April 30th 2018 has received 622,378 reviews of which 594,632 were positive and 27,746 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 3,175 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played horror games.9. Dying Light
First-person action survival game set in a post-apocalyptic open world overrun by flesh-hungry zombies. Roam a city devastated by a mysterious virus epidemic. Scavenge for supplies, craft weapons, and face hordes of the infected. Dying Light is a zombies, survival horror and horror game developed and published by Techland. Released on January 27th 2025 has received 453,392 reviews of which 431,661 were positive and 21,731 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10. With 2,994 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played horror games.10. Subnautica
Descend into the depths of an alien underwater world filled with wonder and peril. Craft equipment, pilot submarines and out-smart wildlife to explore lush coral reefs, volcanoes, cave systems, and more - all while trying to survive. Subnautica is a open world survival craft, survival and horror game developed and published by Unknown Worlds Entertainment. Released on January 23rd 2018 has received 309,700 reviews of which 300,502 were positive and 9,198 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 2,653 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played horror games.Best deals on horror games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of horror games available on Steam right now, updated on April 16th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted horror games.
1. In Sound Mind
In Sound Mind is an imaginative first-person psychological horror with frenetic puzzles, unique boss fights, and original music by The Living Tombstone. Journey within the inner workings of the one place you can’t seem to escape—your own mind. In Sound Mind is a horror, psychological horror and story rich game developed by We Create Stuff and published by Maximum Entertainment. Released on September 28th 2021 has received 5,658 reviews of which 5,389 were positive and 269 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Featuring a massive 96% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for horror category.2. My Friendly Neighborhood
Something scary is happening with everyone's favorite Saturday morning puppet show, The Friendly Neighborhood! Play as Gordon, a repairman sent to get to the bottom of this disturbing dilemma. Fend off puppets and solve puzzles in this survival horror adventure. My Friendly Neighborhood is a singleplayer, survival horror and funny game developed by John Szymanski and Evan Szymanski and published by DreadXP. Released on July 18th 2023 has received 2,716 reviews of which 2,597 were positive and 119 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 95% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in horror games.3. Observation
Observation is a sci-fi thriller uncovering what happened to Dr. Emma Fisher, and the crew of her mission, through the lens of the station’s artificial intelligence S.A.M. Observation is a indie, adventure and space game developed by No Code and published by Devolver Digital. Released on May 21st 2020 has received 4,729 reviews of which 3,711 were positive and 1,018 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 95% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in horror games.4. There Is No Light: Enhanced Edition
Battle your way through the grim Underground world in this brutal action-adventure RPG. Exterminate hordes of enemies, fight dangerous bosses and explore the world the way you want! There Is No Light: Enhanced Edition is a fantasy, horror and souls-like game developed by Zelart and published by HypeTrain Digital. Released on September 19th 2022 has received 867 reviews of which 628 were positive and 239 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for horror games.5. Deadly Premonition: The Director's Cut
Play as special agent Francis York Morgan in this open-world action-adventure as you solve the case of the Red Seed Murders and survive in a small, quirky American mountain town where supernatural creatures and a mysterious raincoat-clad, axe-wielding killer seek to end his investigation for good. Deadly Premonition: The Director's Cut is a story rich, adventure and horror game developed and published by Rising Star Games. Released on October 29th 2013 has received 4,401 reviews of which 2,920 were positive and 1,481 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for horror games.6. DARQ: Complete Edition
DARQ tells the story of Lloyd, a boy who finds himself in the middle of a lucid nightmare. Unable to wake up, Lloyd has to face his fears and decipher the meaning of the dream. DARQ: Complete Edition is a horror, dark and adventure game developed and published by Unfold Games. Released on August 15th 2019 has received 3,981 reviews of which 3,742 were positive and 239 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 94% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for horror games.7. Ad Infinitum
When reality is a nightmare, nightmares become real. In this psychological horror game, you fight the terrifying creatures invading your mind. Can you save your sanity? Ad Infinitum is a horror, action and psychological horror game developed by Hekate and published by Nacon. Released on September 14th 2023 has received 854 reviews of which 688 were positive and 166 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 94% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for horror games.8. Mediterranea Inferno
Explore the inner demons of three childhood friends on a summer retreat. Unearth secrets, fears and obsessions as you help them reconnect and rediscover themselves. A mature and treacherous visual novel from the creator of Milky Way Prince – The Vampire Star. Mediterranea Inferno is a lgbtq+, choose your own adventure and visual novel game developed by Eyeguys and Lorenzo Redaelli and published by Santa Ragione. Released on August 24th 2023 has received 412 reviews of which 339 were positive and 73 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 93% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for horror games.9. F.E.A.R. 3
F.E.A.R. 3 delivers all the hallmarks that define the F.E.A.R. brand: terrifying paranormal experience, frenetic combat and a dramatic storyline. F.E.A.R. 3 is a fps, horror and co-op game developed by Day 1 Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. Released on June 21st 2011 has received 12,621 reviews of which 8,996 were positive and 3,625 were negative resulting in a rating of 7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 93% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for horror games.10. The Excavation of Hob's Barrow
The Excavation of Hob's Barrow is a folk horror narrative-driven adventure. Explore the isolated moors of rural Victorian England as you uncover the mysteries of Hob's Barrow. The answers lie in the soil... The Excavation of Hob's Barrow is a point & click, adventure and horror game developed by Cloak and Dagger Games and published by Wadjet Eye Games. Released on September 28th 2022 has received 2,364 reviews of which 2,194 were positive and 170 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 92% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for horror games.Free horror games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play horror games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on April 16th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play horror games.