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
The Mirror Lied This isn't a horror game. Nothing will jump out at you.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.3
Release 25 Oct 2018
SIMULACRA: Pipe Dreams A spin-off of the critically acclaimed SIMULACRA, Pipe Dreams tells a brand new story, with a new interface, live-action cast and horrors to unravel. Follow the story of Teddy as he tries desperately to break free from the hold of a cursed video game.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.9
Release 25 Oct 2018
Viviette Exploration, puzzles and a touch of classic horror awaits you! Uncover the secrets and mysteries of Neuville's Mansion. Test your logic against diverse puzzles, locate and use a variety of items, and don't lose your sense of direction, as navigation itself becomes an obstacle in your path!

Price -86% 1.46€
Rating 8.2
Release 18 Oct 2018
Accounting+ Accounting+ is a NIGHTMARE ADVENTURE COMEDY. Experience classic virtual reality gameplay: clean up your office, take the battery out of the cooling machine, play the skeleton xylophone, and summon thousands upon thousands of demons.

Price 11.99€
Rating 7.0
Release 18 Oct 2018
Infliction Wander through an interactive nightmare set within the confines of a once-happy household. Piece together the mystery behind a harrowing series of events while struggling to survive encounters with an entity that relentlessly stands in the way of finding absolution.

Price -85% 2.69€
Rating 7.8
Release 17 Oct 2018
God's Basement God's Basement is a first-person, narrative-driven, single player horror game. Uncover the secrets of an afterlife shrouded in mystery, as an entity known as "The Operator" leads you deeper into the fringes of a seemingly eternal purgatory.

Price -80% 2.49€
Rating 7.1
Release 16 Oct 2018
CINERIS SOMNIA "I hope that someday, you'll dream of me." -- CINERIS SOMNIA is a 3D adventure through a beautifully strange and mesmerizing world - and a young girl's cruel and forlorn dreams.

Price 12.49€
Rating 8.1
Release 09 Oct 2018
Giraffe Town A giraffe born with slippery feet sets out to find love...

Price 6.89€
Rating 7.6
Release 02 Oct 2018
In Death Created exclusively for VR, In Death is a Roguelite Shooter set in the godless afterlife. Battle through procedurally generated levels and dungeons in intense ranged combat, coupled with a unique locomotion system perfectly attuned to your fighting style.

Price 24.99€
Rating 8.0
Release 02 Oct 2018
Virtual Virtual Reality A game about VR, AI, and our collective sci-fi fever dreams. In a future where AI has transformed society, can humans still find purpose? Find out with Activitude, a service that lets humans aid AI clients in increasingly curious ways.

Price 12.49€
Rating 8.6
Release 07 Sep 2018
MOMO.EXE Horror game where you need to do different tasks from horror creature received by your phone. And remember: Don't chat with MOMO!

Price -52% 0.96€
Rating 8.1
Release 29 Aug 2018
Lake of Voices A free horror Visual Novel about an ill-fated journey across Sinnlos, a lake where gruesome monsters lurk just beneath the surface. With times being so dire you'll need to decide what, and who, is going to be sacrificed. Anyone can be saved, but not everyone can be.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.9
Release 28 Aug 2018
Greetings Explore what is around every corner in hopes for answers to where you're going and why.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.0
Release 24 Aug 2018
Lucah: Born of a Dream FOR THE POWER AND GLORY; NOW AND FOREVER

Price -75% 2.43€
Rating 8.8
Release 21 Aug 2018
Scorch It's been 30 years since a terrible arson attack erased an entire family. Until today the culprit has been on the loose. You are sent to investigate a similar incident in this narrative exploration game.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.7
Release 15 Aug 2018
Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass One day, Jimmy looked inside.

Price -30% 10.49€
Rating 8.7
Release 07 Aug 2018
Return. Take the lost soul to its home.

Price -25% 0.74€
Rating 8.6
Release 03 Aug 2018
Hotel Remorse Wander long creepy corridors in search for answers in this short and jumpscare filled game.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.3
Release 27 Jul 2018
FROSTBITE: Deadly Climate Survive the arctic research base simply known as Base 75, or die from the freezing cold or by the horrors that lurk within the halls?

Price Free to play
Rating 8.1
Release 22 Jul 2018
Mary Skelter: Nightmares The "Jail" suddenly appeared a number of years ago, sinking the city deep into the ground. There, this impenetrable living prison 666 metres beneath the surface, held power over eerie creatures called "Marchens." Within the prison was a boy named Jack - living a life of suffering...

Price 20.99€
Rating 8.0
Release 19 Jul 2018
The Miskatonic Explore the most prestigious occult school in North America, The Miskatonic University, in a hilarious dark comedy set after the Lovecraft canon, in which the greatest threat to mankind is its own ambitions.

Price 0.79€
Rating 7.3
Release 19 Jul 2018
Lynne Lynne is a short story about the scariest thing in the world: being a teenager.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.6
Release 13 Jul 2018
DERE EVIL EXE DERE EVIL EXE is both a terrifying thriller with a gripping meta horror story and a retro 16-bit pixel platformer with unique puzzles and obstacles.

Price -50% 1.49€
Rating 8.1
Release 03 Jul 2018
Animyst Explore a strange and dark afterlife as the Undead. Inhabit the body of a Skeleton or Fleshy Corpse and build a new life in The Droughts, a giant desert of ancient ruins and occult monsters. Craft powerful spells and befriend or battle other players in a single open online world...

Price Free to play
Rating 8.0
Release 02 Jul 2018

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!