10 Horror Games That Get Better As You Go

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No matter the horror game series or its release date, there’s always something to appreciate about them. Maybe you’re drawn to the unsettling, inexplicable atmosphere found in newer games, or perhaps you enjoy the old-school charm of fixed camera angles from earlier times. Either way, there’s a little something for every horror game enthusiast.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that certain games might begin in a straightforward manner, but as you advance, they could surprise you with their complexity.

As you progress through these horror games, they tend to improve significantly, not implying they are subpar initially, but rather they culminate in a far more powerful and engaging climax compared to their starting point.

Whether it’s due to increased tension, a sudden plot twist, or some other surprising element, these games keep you hooked till the end. You’d really be sorry if you didn’t play them all the way through.

This article will contain spoilers for some of these games.

10.
Bloodborne

Horror? In MY Souls Game?

Bloodborne might not fit the conventional definition of a horror game, but if you compare it with the other games in the Souls series, it’s evident that it stands out as the one focusing on eldritch horror among them all.

As a gamer, I can say that Yharnam, in all its lore-rooted harshness, doesn’t belittle your time or intellect. Instead, it challenges you based on your own skills. The satisfaction of making progress in this game is deeply enriched by the fact that it seems to recognize my capabilities.

As you advance through the battles (which become increasingly enjoyable as you gain levels), and navigate a multitude of opponents (who also grow simpler with progression), you’ll uncover an abundance of background information that will enhance your comprehension of the current events. This doesn’t even touch upon the additional content provided by the DLC, or the triumphant experience of confronting Lady Maria of the Astral Clocktower.

Although it’s not categorized as a horror game, it can certainly be described as a “horror-like” Souls experience. Moreover, as you delve deeper into the Dream, the game seems to keep improving and refining itself.

9.
SOMA

Don’t Think Too Long About It

After completing SOMA, you may find yourself deeply absorbed in introspective thought for extended periods, teetering on the brink of a philosophical dilemma.

In SOMA, a chilling sci-fi horror game, themes of what it means to be human and have a soul are explored. The game takes its time developing the atmosphere, unwinding gradually as you delve deeper into the story and uncover clues vital to the plot. As you progress, your understanding of everything begins to shift – reaching a climax when your true identity is finally uncovered.

By the conclusion, the entire story has been flipped on its head, challenging everything you thought was true. This unexpected turn of events leaves a lasting impression, increasing your desire to explore the game again since every hint becomes even more significant.

This lesser-known AA title deserves more recognition, as it delivers an intense emotional roller coaster ride. If you don’t take some time to reflect after finishing the game, you might find yourself grappling with feelings that could potentially lead to a personal emotional turmoil.

8.
Alan Wake 2

Vastly Superior to the Original

If you enjoyed the initial Alan Wake game with its distinctive features in the horror genre, you’ll adore its follow-up even more. Not only does it improve upon the original gameplay, but the entire Alan Wake series is worth your attention and appreciation.

In the second installment of Alan Wake, Alan finds himself imprisoned in an ominous world shrouded in darkness for more than a decade. His sole means of escape lies in the power of words – a skill at which he is particularly proficient when it comes to creating compelling stories.

Additionally, you will assume the character of Detective Anderson, who is probing into Alan’s vanishing, and together you find yourselves inadvertently joining the Cult of the Tree.

Absolutely, I’d strongly recommend diving into this tale if you haven’t already. It offers an enjoyable experience from the beginning and keeps getting better as you advance in the game. And, if you’re new to survival horror genre, it’s a great starting point!

7.
Dead Space

Read the Mission Titles

It’s thrilling for me when horror games subtly incorporate unexpected plot twists, and Dead Space truly excels at this. As you advance through the game, it appears that each mission title is just a simple designation. However, if you look closer, there’s a hidden message in those initial letters.

Nicole is Dead.

The initial predicament of the Ishimura’s entire team was sealed from the outset, serving as the main plot twist. As the game unfolds, a significant shift occurs where you transition from having unwavering faith in yourself and your crew to a point where trust becomes elusive – not just for others, but even for yourself.

After encountering the Marker at the game’s end, Isaac finds himself spiraling deeper into a psychological abyss, or figuratively falling further into insanity.

6.
Resident Evil 4 Remake

The Most Iconic in Survival Horror

It’s indisputable that the Resident Evil series has significantly shaped the survival horror genre, but none have done so quite like Resident Evil 4 (RE4). RE4 is not only the most acclaimed game in the franchise, but also in survival horror overall, and the Remake masterfully recreates its enchanting essence.

One significant factor contributing to its widespread appeal is that it’s a thrill from the get-go, becoming increasingly enjoyable (and sometimes frightening with the Regenerators) as you advance through the game. As you progress, you’ll enhance your weapons, boost your equipment, and encounter various types of adversaries.

In this game, there are three primary locations: the Village, the Castle, and finally the Island, each providing a distinct adventure as you progress through them. However, this description barely scratches the surface of the captivating narrative and the suspenseful atmosphere it creates.

Regardless of your perspective, the game is one that lives up to its buzz and is definitely worth experiencing firsthand to understand its appeal.

5.
Still Wakes the Deep

A Desperate, Futile Attempt

One important aspect of horror games lies in stripping players of their control, leaving them feeling vulnerable and powerless. This sensation intensifies throughout “Still Wakes the Deep” until it reaches a breaking point, much like a stretched rubber band ready to snap.

On the Beira D. Oil Rig, when an ancient, terrifying entity lashes out, your role as the engineer kicks into gear, with the goal of saving everyone. Yet, as events unfold and you delve deeper, it becomes clear that no one is going to escape this nightmare alive.

The chilling, creeping sensation in your stomach as this gradually becomes reality is a testament to skillful horror storytelling, seamlessly placing players within Caz Mcleary’s situation and earning its spot among the top horror games released last year. Consequently, by the time you confront your inevitable fate during your struggle for survival, your anguish transforms into a poignant, heart-aching hope.

Hope that this wasn’t all for nothing.

4.
Silent Hill 2 Remake

How Does It Get Scarier?

It’s undeniable that the Silent Hill series is inherently scary, but the release of the remake for Silent Hill 2 sent shivers down my spine in a way no other horror game had managed before. Interestingly enough, the fear intensifies as you advance through the game.

In the game, Toluca Prison is undeniably one of the most terrifying locations, typically reached closer to the end. Moreover, the narrative of Silent Hill 2 progressively plunges you deeper into your metaphorical nightmare.

This game boasts an extraordinary level of detail and complexity, leading to numerous theories among fans that remain unresolved. With each playthrough, you’re likely to discover something fresh, deepening your exploration.

Just when you think it can’t get scarier, it does, and it’s absolutely excellent.

3.
Devotion

A Tragedy in Plain Sight

As a high school educator during the day, I often encounter students dealing with challenging family situations. Yet, Devotion presents a tale unlike any other, equally moving and heartrending.

Externally, the Du Family appears grand, but within their modest Taiwanese apartment, all is amiss. Their gifted daughter Mei Shin pursues a singing career, emulating her mother, while the family head writes screenplays that triumph. Yet, beneath this facade of success, they grapple with unspoken struggles.

In this game, common anxieties are intensified significantly, particularly when religious elements are involved. As you advance, the heart-wrenching story of the Du Family gradually unveils itself to you.

And that’s when you realize the worst of the tragedy was hidden in plain sight the entire time.

2.
Doki Doki Literature Club

The Horror Begins in Act 2

As you navigate Act 1 of Doki Doki Literature Club (DDLC), it may initially appear as though it’s not a horror game at all. In fact, some players might find themselves perplexed. However, beneath the appealing anime aesthetic lies a brand of horror that is specifically designed to target you personally.

In the course of your high school days, you join the literature club and prepare for an approaching festival, playing the role of a common character. Yet, there’s a certain enigma about Monika that becomes apparent only in Act 2.

In my opinion, this seemingly brief horror game packs quite a punch when it comes to scaring the living daylights out of players, especially as the character Monika starts invading your personal files and addressing you directly. There’s something unsettlingly authentic about it that I find utterly captivating.

It’s a game that completely subverts all your expectations, and it just gets better from there.

1.
The Mortuary Assistant

Demonic Hauntings Get More Aggressive

In a chilling twist, the role of the Mortuary Assistant centers around solving an eerie riddle, where you must locate and banish a malevolent spirit. Make a mistake, and not only will you suffer eternal damnation, but also lose your very soul.

As I progress through my shift, things initially seem manageable. However, as I get closer to wrapping up, the supernatural encounters become increasingly intense and frequent, leaving me feeling quite on edge.

Poor Rebecca constantly finds herself in difficult situations, given the various conclusions hinging on how effectively one can locate and expel the demon. The experience is exhilarating and persistent, maintaining a sense of tension until you’re certain that you’ve succeeded.

Or so you think.

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2025-05-16 17:40