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.
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 July 07th 2025.
1. 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 797,216 reviews of which 630,223 were positive and 166,993 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played horror game, thanks to its 75,149 peak concurrent players over the last day.
2. 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 multiplayer game developed and published by semiwork. Released on February 26th 2025 has received 185,642 reviews of which 179,154 were positive and 6,488 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. While seeing 40,519 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among horror games based on player count.
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 768,779 reviews of which 736,611 were positive and 32,168 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. While seeing 20,671 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among horror games based on player count.
4. 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 horror, team-based and combat game developed and published by Fatshark. Released on November 30th 2022 has received 112,960 reviews of which 80,268 were positive and 32,692 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.0 out of 10. With 12,505 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played horror games.
5. 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 627,791 reviews of which 599,805 were positive and 27,986 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 12,438 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played horror games.
6. 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 181,708 reviews of which 177,539 were positive and 4,169 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. With 7,612 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played horror games.
7. 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 26th 2015 has received 457,632 reviews of which 435,687 were positive and 21,945 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10. With 6,826 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played horror games.
8. 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 487,160 reviews of which 473,422 were positive and 13,738 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 4,913 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played horror games.
9. Subnautica
Descend into the depths of an alien underwater world filled with wonder and peril. Craft equipment, pilot submarines and out-smart wildlife to explore lush coral reefs, volcanoes, cave systems, and more - all while trying to survive. Subnautica is a open world survival craft, survival and horror game developed and published by Unknown Worlds Entertainment. Released on January 23rd 2018 has received 313,707 reviews of which 304,449 were positive and 9,258 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 4,365 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played horror games.
10. The Outlast Trials
Red Barrels invites you to experience mind-numbing terror, this time with friends. Whether you go through the trials alone or in teams, if you survive long enough and complete the therapy, Murkoff will happily let you leave… but will you be the same? The Outlast Trials is a horror, multiplayer and co-op game developed and published by Red Barrels. Released on March 05th 2024 has received 66,956 reviews of which 62,533 were positive and 4,423 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. With 3,847 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played horror games.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 July 07th 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 5,812 reviews of which 5,535 were positive and 277 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Featuring a massive 99% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for horror category.
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 2,773 reviews of which 2,651 were positive and 122 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in horror games.
3. 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 431 reviews of which 356 were positive and 75 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in horror games.
4. Alone in the Dark
Return to Derceto Manor in this reimagination of Alone in the Dark, a love letter to the 90’s cult classic horror game. Alone in the Dark is a psychological horror, lovecraftian and horror game developed by Pieces Interactive and published by THQ Nordic. Released on March 20th 2024 has received 3,567 reviews of which 2,821 were positive and 746 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for horror games.
5. 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 934 reviews of which 750 were positive and 184 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for horror games.
6. 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 sci-fi game developed by No Code and published by Devolver Digital. Released on May 21st 2020 has received 4,773 reviews of which 3,743 were positive and 1,030 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for horror games.
7. Silver Chains
Silver Chains is a first-person horror game with a strong emphasis on story and exploration. Search for clues within an old abandoned manor to unravel the truth about the terrible events which have happened. Silver Chains is a horror, adventure and indie game developed by Cracked Heads Games and published by Headup. Released on August 06th 2019 has received 1,219 reviews of which 848 were positive and 371 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for horror games.
8. Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones
Delve into a role-playing game of horror, loss and madness set in the strange worlds of HP Lovecraft. Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones offers a mix of rich role-playing and turn-based tactical combat, represented in an illustrative visual style. Can you find salvation in a dead world? Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones is a rpg, indie and lovecraftian game developed by Cultic Games and published by Fulqrum Publishing. Released on September 26th 2019 has received 2,438 reviews of which 1,619 were positive and 819 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for horror games.
9. Amnesia: The Bunker
Amnesia: The Bunker is a first-person horror game set in a WW1 bunker. A relentless, AI-driven monster stalks you. Survival depends on finding tools, crafting items, and keeping the lights on. Amnesia: The Bunker is a horror, survival horror and atmospheric game developed and published by Frictional Games. Released on June 06th 2023 has received 9,094 reviews of which 8,501 were positive and 593 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for horror games.
10. Bendy and the Dark Revival
Bendy and the Dark Revival® is a first-person survival horror game set in the creepiest cartoon studio to ever exist. Discover the truth. Escape the studio. Above all, fear the Ink Demon…and survive. Bendy and the Dark Revival is a horror, action and singleplayer game developed and published by Joey Drew Studios. Released on November 15th 2022 has received 12,975 reviews of which 12,068 were positive and 907 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for horror games.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 July 07th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play horror games.
1. 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 214,309 reviews of which 195,923 were positive and 18,386 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 2,700 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free horror games on Steam.
2. 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 98,914 reviews of which 84,113 were positive and 14,801 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 824, this horror game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free horror games on Steam.
3. 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 26,801 reviews of which 18,844 were positive and 7,957 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 501, this horror game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free horror games on Steam.
4. 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 74,408 reviews of which 65,852 were positive and 8,556 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 452 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
5. Cats
Cats — and that says it all. Interactive cat clicker. Click on cats for new cats. That's all, really. Cats is a free to play, clicker and psychological horror game developed and published by 100 Cozy Games and Cats. Released on May 21st 2024 has received 4,199 reviews of which 3,263 were positive and 936 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 410 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #5 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
6. 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 74,253 reviews of which 66,753 were positive and 7,500 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 327 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #6 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
7. 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 58,273 reviews of which 55,394 were positive and 2,879 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 278 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #7 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
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 29,997 reviews of which 27,014 were positive and 2,983 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 196 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #8 position in the best free horror games on Steam.
9. Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria Simulator
Start your own Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria with Freddy Fazbear Pizzeria Simulator! Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria Simulator is a free to play, horror and singleplayer game developed and published by Scott Cawthon. Released on December 04th 2017 has received 30,209 reviews of which 28,374 were positive and 1,835 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 178 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #9 position in the best free horror games on Steam.