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 Boba Teashop A cozy horror game where you own and manage a boba tea shop. Prepare boba teas, serve customers, and expand your menu to grow your business.

Price -20% 3.99€
Rating 9.0
Release 20 Apr 2025
Stygian: Outer Gods Dive into a hostile world that challenges your very existence, in this survival horror game with RPG elements. Unravel a thousand-year-old mystery, risk your sanity and face the Outer Gods with your skills. Every bullet and every decision counts now, are you up to the task?

Price -63% 9.46€
Rating 8.0
Release 14 Apr 2025
Viscerafest Viscerafest is a Sci-Fi Fantasy Singleplayer Arena FPS with minor Collectathon elements. Fight through hordes of aliens and eldritch monstrosities wielding a slew of powerful weapons, juggling your resources, and exploring over 23 intricately designed hand-crafted levels.

Price -88% 2.58€
Rating 8.1
Release 14 Apr 2025
Bureau of Contacts "Bureau of Contacts" - ghost-hunting game for 1-4 players, in which you'll encounter 2 enemies at once - location itself and the ghosts with most human-like intelligence ever. So...look around and watch what you say!

Price -60% 3.11€
Rating 7.3
Release 12 Apr 2025
PARANOIA PLACE PARANOIA PLACE is a 1-3 player online co-op survival horror game. Together or alone, you will need to solve puzzles, find items and run from the bloodthirsty demonic killer.

Price -50% 3.49€
Rating 8.4
Release 09 Apr 2025
The Happyhills Homicide 2: Out For Blood He is back. Once again take control of mass serial killer John Wade. Six years later, the infamous Pale Grin resurrects from the grave to terrorize the broken town of Happyhills. This time he has more on his mind than simple killing.

Price 2.99€
Rating 8.7
Release 03 Apr 2025
Emissary Zero Co-op horror (1-4 players). You are sent to explore a mysterious building at night. Find the Moon and try to return alive.

Price 8.79€
Rating 7.8
Release 28 Mar 2025
Unpossess: Exorcism Simulator Unpossess is a 1-4 co-op exorcism simulator game set in the early 1900s. Players take on the role of exorcists responsible for addressing cases of human possession.

Price -55% 6.20€
Rating 7.1
Release 21 Mar 2025
qualia Intellica thanks you for volunteering in this short text-based Research Study. Pay attention to the participants answers, and classify them as either Human or Artificial. Join us in shaping the future of technology. Remember, think happy!

Price Free to play
Rating 8.6
Release 13 Mar 2025
ASYLUM An epic supernatural horror adventure and the spiritual successor to cult classic Scratches set in a massive, decaying mental institute. Inspired by H. P. Lovecraft, Hammer Films and twisted Euro Horror from the 80s.

Price -30% 17.15€
Rating 8.1
Release 13 Mar 2025
ORDER 13 You wake up in a dark warehouse, tasked with packing orders while something lurks in the shadows. Work fast, stay safe, and protect your cat. He’s all you’ve got.

Price -72% 2.56€
Rating 8.3
Release 10 Mar 2025
The Test: Reality Check The Test: Reality Check is one of multiple installments in an ongoing social experiment that can be classified as an atmospheric, psychological-simulation with horror elements. Dive deep into your own psyche to find answers to questions you've kept locked away, hidden from yourself for far too long.

Price -20% 3.99€
Rating 9.1
Release 24 Feb 2025
BrokenLore: LOW BrokenLore: LOW is a psychological horror game set in a mist-covered, beautiful Japanese village, blending hyper-realistic graphics with low-poly elements. The main enemy is the Gashadokuro, a yokai from Japanese folklore.

Price -55% 3.99€
Rating 7.5
Release 20 Feb 2025
Blood Typers TYPE TO KILL in this survival horror adventure. Alone or with friends, explore a sprawling cursed film studio as its horror movies bleed into reality. Choose from a roster of characters then plan your escape from this bloody homage to old school horror. But remember... death is just a typo away.

Price -25% 9.22€
Rating 8.9
Release 20 Feb 2025
Cabernet Cabernet is a 2D narrative RPG set in a 19th century Eastern European inspired world, with a modern twist. Guide Liza, a young vampire in her new unlife among the unsuspecting townsfolk. Will you retain your humanity or descend further into the horror you have become?

Price -68% 6.38€
Rating 8.7
Release 20 Feb 2025
NO-SKIN Horror Roguelike characterized by an experimental artstyle and storytelling, strategic gameplay and deep mysteries

Price -20% 5.59€
Rating 9.1
Release 16 Feb 2025
Project Hailstorm Step into the shoes of a researcher in the depths of the antarctic and uncover the mysteries behind Project Hailstorm.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.8
Release 10 Feb 2025
The Butterfly Collector investigate the evidence left by a stalker and kidnapper and track the fate of a college girl. The player advances and watches the plot by clicking to make choices for the heroine at key moments, with different choices leading to different endings.

Price 0.99€
Rating 8.6
Release 09 Feb 2025
Slender Threads In this paranormal point-and-click adventure, a traveling salesman races to stop a string of horrific deaths in a quiet seaside town—before he’s next.

Price -70% 5.90€
Rating 8.6
Release 07 Feb 2025
UNDERWARD UNDERWARD is a 1-4 player co-op horror exploration game. Investigators must carry «TEST-SUBJECT» monsters from a deadly underground abandoned hospital ward.

Price -30% 6.82€
Rating 6.8
Release 04 Feb 2025
DEAD LETTER DEPT. Working at a data entry job in the big city, you type up and transcribe the lost mail and letters that have nowhere else to go. But as the days carry on oddities in the mail start to emerge, and cracks begin to appear.

Price -20% 11.83€
Rating 9.0
Release 30 Jan 2025
SCP: Fragmented Minds You arrive at Mars Site-113, a decaying monument to the SCP Foundation's ambition—and its failures. Once the most secure facility, now a cradle of horrors calling you to uncover its secrets. Face relentless anomalies, humanity's darkest truths, and a mission that demands survival above all else.

Price -56% 4.19€
Rating 8.7
Release 27 Jan 2025
AI2U: With You 'Til The End You wake up in a cute girl's home who's eager to keep you by her side! Engage with thematic stories, puzzles, and unique AI NPCs who'll go to any lengths to protect you—even when it means contradicting themselves. Bask in meet-cutes or brace for chaos if you try to escape.

Price -10% 8.77€
Rating 8.6
Release 23 Jan 2025
Dreamcore Experience liminal spaces like never before. Dreamcore is the ultimate psychological exploration game, set in the largest liminal world ever made. No guides, no path—only intuition. Will you keep your bearings in a world designed to make you lose them?

Price 11.79€
Rating 8.3
Release 23 Jan 2025

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!