Hidden 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, check out lists of the most played, top deals and best free to play Horror games on Steam.

Filters & Lists
98xx The 98xx is an old computer OS from the 90s that’s recently been discovered after many years of being lost. There are still a few working files within the OS that can be explored.

Price 2.99€
Rating 7.5
Release 29 May 2023
Byakuya Museum “I should have...died...”Opened eyes again, he found himself in a bustling museum!Players need to take on the role of a raven specimen boy "Gregorio" to explore the Byakuya Museum. Your mission is to plumb the secrets of Time Town, uncover  your own past, and escape from the museum.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.8
Release 26 May 2023
Propagation: Paradise Hotel Trapped inside the Paradise Hotel, you are desperate to find your sister. Explore dark surroundings, gather resources, and survive terrifying encounters. This intense single-player VR survival horror game with great storytelling will get your adrenaline pumping.

Price -70% 5.99€
Rating 8.3
Release 04 May 2023
KILLBUG KILLBUG is a fast-paced, first-person movement shooter set in an endless arena. Slash and shoot your way through hordes of ravenous insects, mastering fluid aerial movement mechanics as you fight for glory on the leaderboards.

Price -70% 1.94€
Rating 9.0
Release 03 May 2023
Paper Bride 4 Bound Love "Paper Bride 4 Bound Love" is a Chinese horror puzzle game, the fourth work in the "Paper Bride" series. Welcome everyone to return to the world of Paper Bride. This time, let us uncover the secrets of Yichang Town together.

Price 9.75€
Rating 7.4
Release 27 Apr 2023
Wretched Depths Play as Sam and fish to your hearts content, sell fish you've caught, collect better gear, and use it to explore the depths of the mysterious lake, but be warned as no one knows what lies at the bottom. Wretched Depths is a PSX-style horror fishing game created by students at the University of Utah.

Price Free to play
Rating 9.0
Release 26 Apr 2023
SCP: Observer SCP: Observer is a frightening experience in which you'll play the role of a maintenance engineer trapped inside a security room. Survive by managing the emergency power supply, monitoring the facility's camera system for threats and blocking the paths of oncoming horrors.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.6
Release 25 Apr 2023
Cave Crawler Cave Crawler is a short horror game where you pilot a drone into a cave and discover something horrible.

Price -25% 1.49€
Rating 8.0
Release 18 Apr 2023
Rewind Or Die There's a serial killer stalking your video store, and you just got called into work on your day off! Stock shelves, deal with customers and RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!

Price -15% 10.02€
Rating 8.7
Release 14 Apr 2023
I Did Not Buy This Ticket Weep for the dead! In this short psychological horror story, play as a professional mourner travelling between funerals. Ride a nightmarish bus whose destination depends on how you choose to face your traumas.

Price -60% 3.11€
Rating 8.1
Release 13 Apr 2023
The Test: Secrets of the Soul 2 You will answer questions that will reveal things deep within. Some will be uncomfortable, but with great knowledge comes great sacrifice. Can you make it all the way through The Test, and are you SURE you want the answers you seek? For it is time to once again unlock "Secrets of the Soul..."

Price Free to play
Rating 9.2
Release 10 Apr 2023
Interior Worlds Snap your own homemade liminal space photos using a mysterious SLR camera as you explore a variety of empty, strange, and familiar spaces.

Price -30% 6.82€
Rating 9.0
Release 07 Apr 2023
Cataclysm: Dark Days Ahead The epitome of a modern traditional roguelike: with turn-based play and a RPG-like skill progression system, it hearkens back to some of the major aspects of this genre. This game has an incredible depth, with a deep inventory system, vehicles and boats, NPCs with their own stories, and more.

Price 19.50€
Rating 8.6
Release 31 Mar 2023
Anemoiapolis: Chapter 1 The most relaxing horror game you'll ever play. Anemoiapolis exists in the uncanny valley of American architecture -- endless carpeted floors and lonely malls. Escape for your life, and enjoy the scenery.

Price 8.79€
Rating 7.7
Release 03 Mar 2023
File Destined Can this last case of Oliver, all be just a small part of a bigger picture? Gather clues, unravel the mystery behind the case and uncover the truth.

Price 3.99€
Rating 8.1
Release 25 Feb 2023
Golgotha Dare to explore the most haunted vicinity in all of England? You will leave no stone unturned as you walk along the eerie grounds of the Black Waters Station and uncover the horror that lies within.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.7
Release 21 Feb 2023
9 Childs Street This is a first-person indie horror game. In 9 Childs Street you will find the terrifying atmosphere of a recently abandoned house, and its captive inhabitants, through the eyes of a curious little boy in a red cap.

Price -40% 4.13€
Rating 8.5
Release 16 Feb 2023
Dreams in the Witch House Navigate the eerie world of Dreams in the Witch House, a unique blend of point-and-click and RPG-adventure. Unravel occult mysteries in Arkham, maintain your sanity, and survive the May-Eve in this Lovecraftian horror game.

Price -88% 1.32€
Rating 8.6
Release 16 Feb 2023
Tower Escape Tower Escape is a reverse tower defense game, where instead of defending against incoming enemies, you play the baddies and guide your minions to the exit. Recruit a team of minions, and collect powerful gems and relics that make each run unique.

Price 7.79€
Rating 7.7
Release 15 Feb 2023
Labyrinth of Galleria: The Moon Society On the outskirts of town lies a mansion said to house the entrance to a maze overflowing with treasure. Do you wish to discover the magical mysteries hidden inside?

Price -5% 47.75€
Rating 7.9
Release 14 Feb 2023
Love Love School Days The protagonist is trapped in the world of a love game. Can you return to the real world again...? Try to escape while running away from the gal game heroine A love simulation-style survival horror game!

Price -20% 4.71€
Rating 9.0
Release 06 Feb 2023
[Chilla's Art] The Karaoke | ヒトカラ🎤 The Karaoke | ヒトカラ is a Japanese horror game about a high school girl at a Karaoke.

Price -20% 4.71€
Rating 7.7
Release 03 Feb 2023
Lunar Mirror "Lunar Mirror" It is a horror suspense decryption game with the theme of Cthulhu in the research institute. Nishimura Qiren's girlfriend mysteriously disappeared on campus. As the investigation deepened, strange events happened one after another

Price -47% 4.50€
Rating 7.6
Release 19 Jan 2023
The Director's Disorder: Pilot Episode The Director, a psycho killer, has chosen you to play the main character in his next film. Will you play your part and survive the night or will you be his latest victim?

Price Free to play
Rating 8.2
Release 19 Jan 2023

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!