Despite the innate instinct for self-preservation embedded in most of us, there exists a peculiar allure to the sensation of fear. For countless centuries, horror stories have been a beloved form of entertainment. Whether it’s ghost tales spun around a crackling campfire, handed down through generations via oral tradition, or meticulously crafted in the pages of classic literature, there is an undeniable pleasure in experiencing terror.

As technology continues to evolve, new avenues for experiencing horror have emerged, with video games standing out as a particularly immersive medium. The range of exceptional horror games is vast and diverse, making it difficult to catalog them all. However, we’ve compiled a consensus list of the ten most outstanding horror games, based on polling the Hardcore Gamer editorial staff through an in-house voting system.

### 10. Signalis: A Cosmic Nightmare

Released on October 27, 2022, by indie developer rose-engine and publisher Rose-engine games, Signalis has garnered an impressive Top Critic Rating of 82/100 on OpenCritic, with 86% of critics recommending it. This game redefines the term “nightmarish” as it transports players into a reality woven from dreams. Unlike most horror games that are grounded in some version of our world, Signalis invites players to question the very nature of reality itself as protagonist Elster navigates increasingly surreal and impossible environments. The game’s unique approach to blending dreams and reality makes it a standout indie title that horror enthusiasts should not miss.

### 9. Little Nightmares: Small Child, Scary World

Released on April 28, 2017, by Tarsier Studios and Bandai Namco Entertainment, Little Nightmares has a Top Critic Rating of 79/100 on OpenCritic, with 72% of critics recommending it. This puzzle platformer thrusts players into the shoes of Six, a nine-year-old girl trapped in the terrifying underwater vessel known as Maw. With no combat abilities to rely on, Six must use stealth and puzzle-solving skills to survive. The constant suspense and pervasive sense of dread compensate for any mechanical rough edges, making this game a compelling addition to the horror genre.

### 8. Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem – Lovecraftian Horror Has Corrupted Your Save Data

Released on June 24, 2002, by Silicon Knights and Nintendo, Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem is celebrated not just for its psychological horror narrative but also for its innovative Sanity Effects. These effects play mind games with the player, mimicking game malfunctions such as sudden character deaths or rooms failing to load. One particularly memorable effect is a prompt that falsely claims your game data is being erased. These unique features elevate Eternal Darkness above many other horror titles, making it an enduring classic.

### 7. Lethal Company: Scaring While Scrapping

Released on October 23, 2023, by developer and publisher Zeekerss, Lethal Company offers a cooperative horror experience for up to four players. The game involves a crew collecting scrap from various moons, each filled with traps and hostile monsters. Effective communication is crucial for both survival and profit, as players must return to their ship before it leaves at midnight. This game provides a unique blend of social interaction and survival horror, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy multiplayer experiences.

### 6. Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly – That Camera Really Captures the Spirit

Released on December 10, 2003, by Tecmo, Fatal Frame II is famed for its use of the Camera Obscura, an enchanted camera that repels malevolent spirits. The game follows twin sisters Mio and Mayu Amakura as they explore the haunted village of Minakami, site of the Crimson Sacrifice Ritual. Despite its somewhat unconventional combat mechanics, Fatal Frame II is often cited as one of the scariest games ever made.

### 5. Dead Space: A Horrifying Remake Done Right

Originally released in 2008 and masterfully remade in 2023 by EA Motive and Electronic Arts, Dead Space has received a Top Critic Rating of 89/100 on OpenCritic, with 97% of critics recommending it. This game demonstrates that space can be a terrifying place, especially when crash-landing among cultists and Necromorphs—reanimated mutated corpses. The remake stays true to the original while updating it for modern gamers, making Dead Space a must-play for horror aficionados.

### 4. Alan Wake 2: A Novel Approach to Horror

Released on October 27, 2023, by Remedy Entertainment and Epic Games, Alan Wake 2 boasts a Top Critic Rating of 89/100 on OpenCritic, with 93% of critics recommending it. This sequel emphasizes survival horror elements over action, resembling a horror visual novel fittingly so as the protagonist is an author. With its gripping story and stunning graphics, Alan Wake 2 excels in creating an immersive atmosphere of dread.

### 3. Resident Evil 7 Biohazard: ‘Til Death Do Us Unite

Released on January 24, 2017, by Capcom, Resident Evil 7 Biohazard reinvigorates the iconic franchise with its terrifying storyline and VR compatibility. Protagonist Ethan Winters searches for his missing wife in the nightmarish Baker mansion. The game’s immersive experience is heightened when played in VR, surrounding players with its unfolding horrors.

### 2. Alien Isolation: In Space, No One Can Hear You Scream

Released on October 7, 2014, by Creative Assembly and Sega, Alien Isolation has a Top Critic Rating of 81/100 on OpenCritic, with 76% of critics recommending it. Set in the year 2137, fifteen years after the original film “Alien,” players control Amanda Ripley as she searches for her mother while evading a deadly Xenomorph. The game’s atmosphere and stealth mechanics capture the essence of the iconic film, making it a must-play for fans.

### 1. Silent Hill 2: In My Restless Dreams I See That Town

Released on September 24, 2001, by Konami, Silent Hill 2 is often regarded as the pinnacle of survival horror games. Set in the fog-shrouded town of Silent Hill, protagonist James Sunderland navigates a nightmarish landscape filled with twisted monsters and psychological horrors. The game’s multiple endings explore different facets of grief, adding depth to its haunting narrative. Silent Hill 2 remains a gold standard in horror gaming.

Next up: The PS5 boasts an array of incredible exclusive titles—discover which ones are truly the best!