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.

Filters & Lists

Penumbra Overture

Penumbra: Overture is a first person survival horror game, emphasizing on survival and problem solving instead of mindless violence and gore.

Price -90% 0.97€
Rating 8.7
Release 06 Mar 2009

F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

Assume the role of Special Forces Sgt. Becket as your routine mission quickly turns into a fight for survival against the wrath of Alma Wade. As Alma's terrifying power surges out of control, your squad is forced to battle through an apocalyptic landscape in search of clues for how to destroy her!

Price 14.99€
Rating 8.3
Release 12 Feb 2009

Penumbra: Black Plague Gold Edition

Surrounded by enemies and assaulted by terror from all sides, Philip must collect clues and solve vexing puzzles while combating the gnawing psychological terrors that assail his mind and threaten to strip him of his sanity.

Price -90% 0.97€
Rating 9.0
Release 23 Jan 2009

Dead Space (2008)

You are Isaac Clarke, an engineer on the spacecraft USG Ishimura. You're not a warrior. You're not a soldier. You are, however, the last line of defense for the remaining living crew.

Price 19.99€
Rating 9.0
Release 09 Jan 2009

Call of Duty: World at War

Call of Duty is back, redefining war like you've never experienced before. Building on the Call of Duty 4®: Modern Warfare engine, Call of Duty: World at War immerses players into the most gritty and chaotic WWII combat ever experienced.

Price -25% 14.99€
Rating 9.1
Release 18 Nov 2008

Left 4 Dead

From Valve (the creators of Counter-Strike, Half-Life and more) comes Left 4 Dead, a co-op action horror game for the PC and Xbox 360 that casts up to four players in an epic struggle for survival against swarming zombie hordes and terrifying mutant monsters.

Price 9.75€
Rating 9.5
Release 17 Nov 2008

Fallout 3

Vault-Tec engineers have worked around the clock on an interactive reproduction of Wasteland life for you to enjoy from the comfort of your own vault. Included is an expansive world, unique combat, shockingly realistic visuals, tons of player choice, and an incredible cast of dynamic characters.

Price -82% 1.80€
Rating 8.0
Release 28 Oct 2008

Zombie Panic! Source

Dive into the zombie apocalypse with Zombie Panic! Source: a cooperative, survival-horror first-person-shooter. A fast-paced standalone modification.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.2
Release 03 Oct 2008

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky – standalone prequel for the acclaimed S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl, which tells you story about the Clear Sky group, that want to research the Zone and understand it better.

Price -81% 1.89€
Rating 8.4
Release 15 Sep 2008

Telltale Texas Hold ‘Em

Join poker's most outspoken players for a hand of Telltale Texas Hold'em, the card game stacked high with personality. Quips will fly, chips will fall, and you may just end up rolling in the aisles.This is your chance to play in a poker tournament against four characters of such lethal absurdity, you'll either die laughing or die trying.

Price -49% 0.50€
Rating 6.2
Release 17 Jun 2008

Cold Fear™

In a ferocious Arctic storm, distress signals are sent from a mysterious Russian whaler. As leading Coast Guard veteran Tom Hansen, you board to investigate — and discover unthinkable horrors lurking beneath the ship's bloodstained decks.

Price 4.99€
Rating 8.0
Release 13 May 2008

Far Cry®

A tropical paradise seethes with hidden evil in Far Cry®, a cunningly detailed action shooter that pushes the boundaries of combat to shocking new levels. Freelance mariner Jack Carver is cursing the day he ever came to this island.

Price -70% 2.99€
Rating 8.0
Release 01 Apr 2008

Manhunt

You awake to the sound of your own panicked breath. In Manhunt, you must run, hide and fight to survive. If you can stay alive long enough, you may find out who did this to you. This is a brutal blood sport.

Price 9.99€
Rating 6.9
Release 04 Jan 2008

Painkiller Overdose

The critically-acclaimed and award-winning FPS franchise is back! Packed with tons of fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled single player and multiplayer action, Painkiller Overdose brings with it 6 innovative new demonic weapons, mind-bending physics, lightning-player maps, over 40 demented and sickly-twisted monsters from Hell and gigantic end...

Price -75% 1.26€
Rating 6.9
Release 30 Oct 2007

BioShock™

BioShock is a shooter unlike any you've ever played, loaded with weapons and tactics never seen. You'll have a complete arsenal at your disposal from simple revolvers to grenade launchers and chemical throwers, but you'll also be forced to genetically modify your DNA to create an even more deadly weapon: you.

Price 19.99€
Rating 9.2
Release 21 Aug 2007

Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders

In a realm corrupted by the evil magic of three brothers known as the Serpent Riders, you are a heretic. As one of the last Sidhe elves, and a capable mage, you embark on a quest for vengeance against those who slaughtered your friends, family, and entire race.

Price 4.99€
Rating 8.9
Release 03 Aug 2007

Quake II

You are humanity’s last hope to stop the Strogg, a hostile alien race waging war against Earth. Play this military sci-fi FPS, now upgraded for modern platforms with improved visuals, new campaign content, online multiplayer/co-op, and more.

Price 9.99€
Rating 9.3
Release 03 Aug 2007

Quake

Developed by the award-winning id Software, Quake® is the ground-breaking, original dark fantasy first-person shooter that inspires today’s retro-style FPS games. With Quake (Enhanced), experience the authentic, updated, and visually enhanced version of the original.

Price -63% 3.74€
Rating 9.4
Release 03 Aug 2007

Return to Castle Wolfenstein

World War II rages and nations fall. The Nazis are twisting science and the occult into an army capable of annihilating the Allies once and for all. As US Army Ranger William “B.J.” Blazkowicz, pierce the black heart of the Third Reich and stop them...or die trying.

Price -71% 1.47€
Rating 9.0
Release 03 Aug 2007

HeXen II

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse lurk in the shadows before you. They are Death, Pestilence, Famine, and War. They are the root of all that is evil, but the least of your worries. The last of the three Serpent Riders yet lives.

Price 4.99€
Rating 7.5
Release 03 Aug 2007

X-COM: Terror From the Deep

The war continues... X-COM: UFO Defense brought you to a galactic battlefield. X-COM: Terror from the Deep brings the alien terror into a totally new dimension.Seeking to take advantage of a weakened Earth, X-COM's deep space foes unexpectedly change strategy and launch a powerful second front against planet Earth.

Price 4.99€
Rating 8.6
Release 04 May 2007

Arx Fatalis

This critically acclaimed first-person RPG from Arkane Studios takes the player on an amazing journey into the fantasy world of Arx. Arx is wrought with turmoil, brought to the brink of destruction by a violent war.

Price 4.99€
Rating 8.4
Release 03 Apr 2007

Thief: Deadly Shadows

You are Garrett, the master thief. Rarely seen and never caught, Garrett is the best that ever was. Able to sneak past any guard, pick any lock, and break into the most ingeniously secured residences. Garrett steals from the wealthy and gives to himself, making his living in the dark and foreboding City.

Price -76% 2.13€
Rating 7.8
Release 29 Mar 2007

Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines

Vampire®: The Masquerade-Bloodlines™ delivers a new type of RPG experience-one that blends all the core elements of a traditional RPG with the graphical richness, immediacy and brutal combat of a first-person action game. The game plunges players into the dark and gritty vampire underworld of modern-day L.A. as a creature of the night.

Price -50% 9.99€
Rating 9.2
Release 22 Mar 2007

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 19th 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 113,966 peak concurrent players over the last day.
9.5
102,099
3,729

113,966
players

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 788,584 reviews of which 623,141 were positive and 165,443 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. While seeing 41,617 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among horror games based on player count.
7.9
623,141
165,443

41,617
players

3. 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. While seeing 19,764 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among horror games based on player count.
9.5
730,347
31,726

19,764
players

4. 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. With 16,245 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played horror games.
7.3
92,215
32,673

16,245
players

5. Metro 2033 Redux

In 2013 the world was devastated by an apocalyptic event, annihilating almost all mankind and turning the Earth's surface into a poisonous wasteland. A handful of survivors took refuge in the depths of the Moscow underground, and human civilization entered a new Dark Age. The year is 2033. Metro 2033 Redux is a post-apocalyptic, fps and atmospheric game developed by 4A Games and published by Deep Silver. Released on August 27th 2014 has received 96,266 reviews of which 87,371 were positive and 8,895 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 9,746 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played horror games.
9.0
87,371
8,895

9,746
players

6. 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 623,385 reviews of which 595,593 were positive and 27,792 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 5,304 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played horror games.
9.5
595,593
27,792

5,304
players

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 5,089 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played horror games.
9.6
470,426
13,408

5,089
players

8. 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 5,058 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played horror games.
7.0
78,530
32,485

5,058
players

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 4,968 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played horror games.
9.4
431,661
21,731

4,968
players

10. 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 4,595 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played horror games.
9.6
171,577
4,050

4,595
players

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 19th 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 5,676 reviews of which 5,405 were positive and 271 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.
9.2
5,405
271

-96% 32.25€ 1.29€

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.
9.1
2,597
119

-95% 31.20€ 1.56€

3. Outlast 2

Outlast 2 introduces you to Sullivan Knoth and his followers, who left our wicked world behind to give birth to Temple Gate, a town, deep in the wilderness and hidden from civilization. Knoth and his flock are preparing for the tribulations of the end of times and you’re right in the thick of it. Outlast 2 is a horror, psychological horror and survival horror game developed and published by Red Barrels. Released on April 24th 2017 has received 54,959 reviews of which 50,192 were positive and 4,767 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 95% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in horror games.
9.0
50,192
4,767

-95% 30.60€ 1.53€

4. 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 4,740 reviews of which 3,717 were positive and 1,023 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for horror games.
7.6
3,717
1,023

-95% 26.80€ 1.34€

5. 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 #5 position in the best deals for horror games.
7.0
628
239

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

6. 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 4,407 reviews of which 2,922 were positive and 1,485 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for horror games.
6.5
2,922
1,485

-95% 24.99€ 1.24€

7. 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 #7 position in the best deals for horror games.
9.0
3,742
239

-94% 16.67€ 1.00€

8. 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 863 reviews of which 695 were positive and 168 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 94% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for horror games.
7.7
695
168

-94% 35.50€ 2.13€

9. Maid of Sker

Maid of Sker is a first-person survival horror, set in a remote hotel with a gory and macabre history from Welsh folklore. Brave the nightmares of the Quiet Ones. Do not panic…don’t even breathe! Maid of Sker is a horror, adventure and action game developed and published by Wales Interactive. Released on July 28th 2020 has received 2,168 reviews of which 1,713 were positive and 455 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 94% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for horror games.
7.6
1,713
455

-94% 23.67€ 1.42€

10. 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 #10 position in the best deals for horror games.
7.7
339
73

-93% 14.29€ 1.00€

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 19th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play horror games.

1. 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. With 16,245 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free horror games on Steam.
7.3
92,215
32,673

16,245
players

2. SCP: Secret Laboratory

Deep within a secure underground facility, a sudden containment breach allows many of the secured anomalies to escape from their chambers. Assist the Foundation in re-securing the facility, help the Insurgency in their goal to capture it, or wreak havoc as an SCP in a frantic bid to escape. SCP: Secret Laboratory is a free to play, multiplayer and horror game developed and published by Northwood Studios. Released on December 29th 2017 has received 211,312 reviews of which 193,314 were positive and 17,998 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.0 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 3,091, this horror game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free horror games on Steam.
9.0
193,314
17,998

3,091
players

3. Poppy Playtime

You must stay alive in this horror/puzzle adventure. Try to survive the vengeful toys waiting for you in the abandoned toy factory. Use your GrabPack to hack electrical circuits or nab anything from afar. Explore the mysterious facility... and don't get caught. Poppy Playtime is a horror, free to play and singleplayer game developed and published by Mob Entertainment. Released on October 12th 2021 has received 97,367 reviews of which 82,683 were positive and 14,684 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 1,109, this horror game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free horror games on Steam.
8.4
82,683
14,684

1,109
players

4. Dead Frontier 2

Survival horror MMO. As one of the few survivors of the outbreak, you must scratch a living out of the decaying ruins of society. Scavenge for supplies, improve your skills, and trade with other players. All the while, keeping your eyes peeled for the infected lurking around every corner. Dead Frontier 2 is a free to play, multiplayer and survival horror game developed and published by Creaky Corpse Ltd. Released on July 15th 2019 has received 26,496 reviews of which 18,654 were positive and 7,842 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.0 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 1,042 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
7.0
18,654
7,842

1,042
players

5. No More Room in Hell

The chances of you surviving this all out war of society and the undead are slim to none. Already, there are millions of the walking dead shambling about, searching for food to eat. There's no known cure. One bite can possibly end it all for you. However, you aren't alone in this nightmare. No More Room in Hell is a free to play, zombies and multiplayer game developed by No More Room in Hell Team and published by Lever Games. Released on October 31st 2013 has received 73,900 reviews of which 66,431 were positive and 7,469 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 483 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #5 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
8.9
66,431
7,469

483
players

6. Cry of Fear

Cry of Fear is a psychological single-player and co-op horror game set in a deserted town filled with horrific creatures and nightmarish delusions. You play as a young man desperately searching for answers in the cold Scandinavian night, finding his way through the city as he slowly descends into madness. Cry of Fear is a horror, free to play and multiplayer game developed and published by Team Psykskallar. Released on April 25th 2013 has received 73,301 reviews of which 64,872 were positive and 8,429 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 438 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #6 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
8.7
64,872
8,429

438
players

7. PROJECT: PLAYTIME

PROJECT: PLAYTIME is a Free-to-Play multiplayer horror game where six players attempt to create one giant toy while surviving a terrifying monster that roams the toy factory. A seventh player controls the monster and is given only one goal: Find and kill everyone. PROJECT: PLAYTIME is a multiplayer, horror and survival horror game developed and published by Mob Entertainment. Released on December 12th 2022 has received 49,570 reviews of which 38,933 were positive and 10,637 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 265 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #7 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
7.7
38,933
10,637

265
players

8. We Were Here

Lost in a frozen wasteland and split up from your partner inside an abandoned castle, the only possession you have left is a walkie-talkie with a familiar voice on the other end. Can the two of you find your way out in time? We Were Here is a free to play, co-op and escape room game developed and published by Total Mayhem Games. Released on February 03rd 2017 has received 29,652 reviews of which 26,762 were positive and 2,890 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 243 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #8 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
8.8
26,762
2,890

243
players

9. The Bonerooms

The Bonerooms is a goofy horror-themed multiplayer game about surviving in a living maze. What will be your downfall? The spooky inhabitants of the maze, or your fellow players? The Bonerooms is a horror, surreal and multiplayer game developed and published by Jasozz Games. Released on October 30th 2024 has received 341 reviews of which 265 were positive and 76 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 214 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #9 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
7.3
265
76

214
players

10. Ultimate Custom Night

Welcome to the ultimate FNAF mashup, featuring 50 selectable characters and custom difficulties! Ultimate Custom Night is a free to play, horror and singleplayer game developed and published by Scott Cawthon. Released on June 27th 2018 has received 57,931 reviews of which 55,086 were positive and 2,845 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 191 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #10 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
9.3
55,086
2,845

191
players