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
AfterHours Experience psychological horror in a large abandoned hospital. Hide, explore and survive from a mysterious creature living in the ruins of this hospital.

Price Free to play
Rating 6.8
Release 18 Feb 2022
KINGDOM of the DEAD Immerse yourself in a dreadful hand-drawn horror world and push Death’s armies back to the underworld!

Price -87% 2.03€
Rating 7.5
Release 10 Feb 2022
PowerSlave Exhumed PowerSlave Exhumed is a KEX Engine port of the classic console game perfectly blending both the PlayStation & Saturn versions

Price -96% 0.81€
Rating 8.5
Release 10 Feb 2022
The Heilwald Loophole The Heilwald Klinikum used to be one of the most renowned medical facilities in Germany. That all changed when that curious loophole appeared...

Price 8.99€
Rating 8.9
Release 04 Feb 2022
Porcelain Tales Collect, run and be a pain in the porcelain

Price Free to play
Rating 7.8
Release 04 Feb 2022
Heaven Dust 2 Deep inside a research base, waking up from a cryogenic pod, you find yourself trapped in a living hell, surrounded by zombies. Heaven Dust 2 is a love letter to classic survival horror games featuring exploration, action, puzzles, and resource management.

Price -60% 5.07€
Rating 8.5
Release 05 Jan 2022
Angry Angry Shark Play with friends against endless waves of man eater sharks.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.8
Release 01 Jan 2022
Happy's Humble Burger Barn Have you ever DREAMED of working at the best burger place ever? Your dream is about to become a reality as you just landed a brand new job at Happy's Humble Burger Barn! Welcome to Happy Humble's Burger Barn, home of the chilled beef burger, can we take your order?

Price Free to play
Rating 8.5
Release 28 Dec 2021
Bitardia In Bitardia you will experience all the rules of the Internet in action, and venture on a journey in the spirit of classic low-budget shooters, making your way through the obstacles of the fantastic world of an imageboard.

Price 5.99€
Rating 8.3
Release 28 Dec 2021
MOTHERED - A ROLE-PLAYING HORROR GAME An immersive first-person horror adventure where you play the role of LIANA - a young girl who arrives home after major surgery and is met with a strange mannequin claiming to be her mother.

Price 8.19€
Rating 8.6
Release 24 Dec 2021
I'm on Observation Duty 4 A spot the difference -type of puzzle horror game about monitoring live surveillance camera footage and spotting anomalies. Anomalies range from furniture movement to intruders. Fix anomalies by filing reports. You will need sharp eyes and good memory. The goal is to survive the entire night.

Price 4.99€
Rating 9.1
Release 22 Dec 2021
Christmas Massacre Christmas is coming and Larry's got a big problem - his Christmas tree is telling him to KILL! Lead him through his murder rampage.

Price 6.59€
Rating 8.6
Release 17 Dec 2021
Sucker for Love: Prelude Preform a series of scary rituals to win over an eldritch cutie and win a smooch!

Price Free to play
Rating 9.0
Release 15 Dec 2021
Amelie A psychological mystery yuri visual novel about a girl named Amelie. Forbidden from leaving the house, Amelie awaits the arrival of her long time penpal, Sofia, to her dear friend Lilika’s dismay. What secrets will Sofia unravel that were best kept buried?

Price 3.99€
Rating 8.5
Release 15 Dec 2021
Wrought Flesh Rip out organs and equip them in your own body. Fight biopunk monsters and drugged-up space bandits. You are a Gajeshian Cultist: A near-mythological being built from the bodies of long-dead saints.

Price 16.79€
Rating 7.2
Release 10 Dec 2021
White Shadows The wolves are watching! Venture through a captivating but brutal dystopia where our young adventurer Ravengirl will travel through this huge city’s brightest highs and delve to its darkest depths on her perilous journey of discovery and finding her destiny where hope seems in short supply.

Price -90% 1.99€
Rating 7.8
Release 07 Dec 2021
Hellcoming Hellcoming is a co-op horror survival game for 1-4 players, who need to clean large areas from hellish abomination with the help of special tools.

Price 3.99€
Rating 7.5
Release 06 Dec 2021
Momotype An experimental, horror visual novel about raising a virtual pet. Help a tamagotchi-like creature navigate his angst. We love Momo!

Price Free to play
Rating 9.1
Release 03 Dec 2021
SiNiSistar Lite Version A simple 2D action game centered on themes of masochistic tendencies, yearning for death, as well as despair at being attacked by terrifying beings.

Price 3.99€
Rating 8.3
Release 29 Nov 2021
Andy's Apple Farm Play minigames and discover the hidden truth in this retro-style horror game

Price 2.39€
Rating 8.3
Release 26 Nov 2021
Pumpkin Eater Pumpkin Eater is a visual novel about grief, pumpkin heads, and human decomposition. 100% medically accurate.

Price 1.99€
Rating 8.3
Release 17 Nov 2021
Urge Fight, build, explore, survive, while the dynamic player-caused hazardous fog is slowly changing the rules of the world around you.

Price 14.99€
Rating 8.4
Release 15 Nov 2021
NOeSIS02_羽化 A spirit trapped in the mirror, a girl restrained by her elder sister, a younger sister suffering from serious illness.The second wave of NOeSIS and a story of troubled girls and boys.

Price Free to play
Rating 9.2
Release 08 Nov 2021
Evil God Korone An unexpected collaboration from Tsugunohi, the game where horror invades daily life, and VTuber Inugami Korone, from VTuber group hololive. Inugami Korone, who has been live streaming many horror game, has become an evil goddess and taken over Tsugunohi. Now, chop your finger and give it to her.

Price -87% 0.66€
Rating 8.8
Release 07 Nov 2021

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!