Best Survival Horror Game Franchises

Key Takeaways

The Evil Within stands out with only two cult classic games and an uncertain future.
Outlast offers a unique horror experience with no combat, emphasizing running and hiding.
Resident Evil remains fresh by reinventing itself, offering a mix of main entries and spin-offs for a diverse player base.

As a seasoned survivor of countless nights locked away in haunted mansions, abandoned research facilities, and eerie spacecrafts, I’ve seen more terrors than most could ever imagine. Yet, when it comes to the pantheon of horror video games, none have left me as utterly spellbound as these iconic franchises.

Which survival horror game series is considered the greatest of all time can be subjective, as there are numerous aspects to consider. Is a collection that boasts just a couple of exceptional installments more worthy than a lengthy franchise with several excellent games marred by a few less successful ones? This is one possible way to rephrase your original statement.

It’s debatable whether subpar spin-offs negatively impact the average rating. However, by selecting top-quality content from each franchise, you can hardly go wrong with the series. Despite some franchises having faded away, others continue to thrive.

7 The Evil Within

Only Two Games But They Became Cult Classics

The Evil Within” ranks so highly due to its short series run and an unpredictable future, given it has only two games in total. Notably, the initial game in the series stands as a strong spiritual successor to Resident Evil 4, considering it was helmed by Shinji Mikami, who created the original Resident Evil franchise.

In the sequel, known as The Evil Within 2, the gameplay is greatly enhanced with expansive open spaces and an emphasis on stealth. This highly-acclaimed title has left fans eagerly awaiting additional content. For now, the series boasts two fantastic games, but whether a third installment will emerge remains to be seen.

6 Outlast

Spine-Tingling First-Person Horror

As a gaming enthusiast who’s dabbled in survival horrors, I can tell you that some games might fall short when it comes to engaging combat systems. Yet, the essence of resisting or evading threats is what truly makes these experiences unforgettable. In the thrilling world of Outlast, conventional combat is thrown out the window, and instead, players are compelled to flee and dodge adversaries rather than face them head-on.

The show incorporates a style reminiscent of found footage, skillfully utilizing night-vision settings. In addition to this, The Outlast Trials introduces a multiplayer mode that allows cooperation, but it can also be played alone. Unlike other horror games, Outlast is not a lighthearted adventure. Instead, its narrative veers into dark and disturbing territory, leaving no character untouched by torment or pain.

5 Alone In The Dark

Almost Invented The Genre, But Has Not Found Modern Recognition

Alone in the Dark, historically speaking, almost single-handedly pioneered the survival horror genre. It introduced the concept of highly detailed 3D character models set against 2D backdrops. However, it should be noted that playing the original games can be challenging today due to their outdated controls and intricate puzzle designs.

In simple terms, the game “The New Nightmare,” released as part of the PS1 series, was well-received due to its timely updates. The 2008 reboot had innovative concepts but technical flaws that limited its success. The 2024 remake of the original game received mixed reviews initially, but there’s a possibility it could become a cult classic in the future. Despite its significant impact on gaming, it appears to struggle to make an impression in contemporary times.

4 Dino Crisis

Turns Out Dinosaurs Are Terrifying

The original “Dino Crisis” can be seen as essentially “Resident Evil” but set in a dinosaur-filled environment. Despite this basic premise, it offers much more than one might expect. The second game in the series leans more towards action and incorporates some arcade elements, which makes it resemble an early version of “Resident Evil 4”, featuring its economic and progression system.

In simpler terms, “The third installment of Dino Crisis was played on the original Xbox, and surprisingly, it still feels fresh and unique even in today’s gaming landscape. Moreover, its gameplay is smoother and more lenient compared to other games.

“Dino Stalker” is covertly connected to “Dino Crisis 2,” and it carries on with certain character narratives.

3 Dead Space

Space Is Scary By Itself Even Without Necromorphs

It is easy to sell Dead Space as Resident Evil 4 in space. There is more to the concept, though, with unique enemies that still come at the player even as their limbs are removed with futuristic weaponry.

In the initial two games, we encounter harrowing survival horror scenarios set within dingy and ominous spaceships. Game number three, however, opted for a faster pace and emphasized cooperative multiplayer, an adjustment that didn’t sit well with some enthusiasts. The 2023 remake, on the other hand, went back to its roots by making the gruesome battles against the Necromorphs more grotesque and terrifying than ever before.

2 Silent Hill

Effectively Focuses On Psychological Scares

Regardless of how other games in the series might be perceived, Silent Hill still earns a spot on this list due to its standout title, Silent Hill 2, released in 2001. This game, alongside Grand Theft Auto 3 and Metal Gear Solid 2, is recognized as a groundbreaking game of that year, significantly impacting the gaming medium.

Following it, there are equally remarkable additions to the genre as well. However, subsequent games tend to show a mix of quality. Not every game post-“Silent Hill 3” is a flop, but players should pay attention to the series’ shortcomings and manage their expectations accordingly.

1 Resident Evil

It Stays Fresh By Constantly Reinventing Itself

Regarding the main titles, it’s hard to make a mistake choosing Resident Evil. The sixth installment is generally viewed as the least favorable one. The genre and mood changes across the series have kept it vibrant over time, catering to a wide variety of gaming preferences.

Beyond that, the classic games continue to shine even after the initial three games were remade. It’s worth noting that while not all spin-offs are worthy of play, some should be avoided such as Survivor and Umbrella Corps. The expansive universe of Resident Evil allows developers to explore various paths, yet it always retains its unique Resident Evil feel.

2024-09-30 03:06