Best Open-World Games That Are Pure Nightmare Fuel

In many video games today, elements of horror are quite prevalent, often leaving players deeply engrossed in games capable of repeatedly startling them. Even open-world games join the fray, offering players engaging gaming adventures that they find thrilling.

Even though these game titles might cause sleepless nights, their captivating nature ensures that players are drawn towards uncovering the peak experiences these games provide. Provided one can withstand the frights, the enjoyment derived from this game is unparalleled.

Dying Light

The Volatiles Will Haunt A Player’s Nightmares

In Dying Light, the initial encounter with the night for the first-time players often ranks among the scariest moments in video game history. Encountering the terrifying Volatiles who charge at astonishing speeds during the night, intent on pursuing Kyle and tearing him apart, will leave players longing fervently for the dawn.

In the following installment, you’ll find that volatile elements are present as well, but it proves challenging to recreate the unique thrill of the chases encountered in the initial game. By the time players finish Dying Light, the volatiles and other infected creatures in

Dredge

The Aberrations Of This Game Can Be Quite Haunting

Although it offers an unusual sense of calmness, there’s no disputing that the horror in Dredge can be quite challenging to handle at times. The menacing marine life in this world is swift to capsize the fisherman’s vessel, while escalating Terror can create difficult predicaments.

Over time, certain monstrous entities and surprises in Dredge may leave players with a sense of dread as the game showcases its Lovecraftian elements. Players can expect to encounter some truly unsettling creatures within the game that seem almost unexplainable.

Sons Of The Forest

The Threat Of The Cannibals Is Overbearing

Playing Sons of the Forest is an unforgettable experience, but let’s face it, the relentless menace of those cannibals can be tough to swallow sometimes. You might end up pulling out handfuls of imaginary hair or even cursing aloud after getting dismembered for what feels like the hundredth time by these ruthless savages.

Facing these cannibals would send shivers down the spines of the most experienced players. It’s crucial to keep a calm demeanor and have self-defense equipment at hand to neutralize these dangers, which could potentially linger in a player’s mind as nightmares.

Metro Exodus

The Intense Exploration And Tough Enemies Will Leave A Lasting Impression

In contrast to other Metro games, Metro Exodus continues the tradition of delivering chilling and intense moments, and it excels at this especially with its shift to an expansive open-world setting. This change not only feels organic but also enhances the experience of playing one of the most suspenseful and gripping survival horror games, spread across a vast, sandbox environment.

In this game, the adversaries that have undergone mutation are truly terrifying, often surprising players, and they can swiftly deplete a significant portion of Artym’s health. To survive, players need to stay alert in a dangerous, radioactive environment teeming with nightmarish foes.

Pathologic 2

The Surreal Horror Of This Game Is Pretty Impactful

In simpler terms, “Pathologic 2” is a remarkably eerie horror game that players can enjoy. This game recreates a timeless open-world adventure with a unique twist – it’s designed like an intricate stage production. Players will find themselves captivated as they delve into the mysteries of this town, working to solve the enigmas that beleaguer it.

The plot of Pathologic 2 takes some unexpected turns and may unsettle players due to its eerie atmosphere and intense scenes. Those with a strong constitution might find the game enjoyable, given its chilling moments.

Subnautica

Thalassophobic Nightmares Will Become Common After This Game

Even though Subnautica is a stunningly beautiful game, those unaware of their fear of deep waters (thalassophobia) might find themselves haunted by this phobia for quite some time following the gameplay. Delving into an ocean teeming with unfathomable terrors can be as nerve-wracking as it gets, often causing players to leap from their seats more than once.

In Subnautica, since the journey is crucial to its overall enjoyment, it’s understandable that players will feel a mix of excitement and apprehension as they advance. They might secretly hope not to encounter some of the game’s most terrifying creatures, as in this case, being unaware can bring a sense of peace.

Outer Wilds: Echoes Of The Eye

This Immersive Puzzle Game Is Full Of Shocking Jump Scares

In the base game of Outer Wilds, there were some frightening moments, but nothing compared to the peak terror experienced in the DLC Echoes of the Eye. This expansion can be so overwhelmingly terrifying that the game itself provides an adjustable setting for reducing the intensity of scares if they become too intense.

For those determined to fully immerse themselves in playing this game, be prepared for numerous scary surprises. Fortunately, the captivating enigma within the game keeps players hooked, making them willing to face its terrifying elements just to delve deeper into what Echoes of the Eye brings to the table when combined with the Outer Wilds adventure.

Elden Ring

Some Especially Challenging Bosses Will Cause Players To Experience Flashbacks

Every FromSoftware game tends to give players quite a fright, despite not being explicitly horror games, and Elden Ring follows suit. This game isn’t for those with weak hearts, as it demands players to either enhance their gaming skills or move up to higher levels following an obstacle they encounter.

Some of the boss fights and ambushes in this game are so frightening that they might haunt players in their nightmares even after they’ve completed these levels. Occasionally, the boss battles in Elden Ring can be excessively tough, causing players to abandon them, a scenario not ideal for dreamtime reminiscing.

2025-08-30 15:38