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
Phantasmagoria Master storyteller Roberta Williams challenges you to experience the ultimate interactive nightmare.

Price 9.99€
Rating 8.1
Release 29 Aug 2016
Ultimate Arena Pick and create characters to fight to the death in this action-packed nonsensical arena simulation.

Price -76% 1.23€
Rating 7.7
Release 22 Aug 2016
Typoman Slip into the role of an unusual HERO and find the last letter to restore hope in a merciless world.

Price 8.99€
Rating 8.1
Release 15 Aug 2016
8-Bit Hordes From the team that brought you 8-Bit Armies comes a new fantasy RTS as fast-paced and friendly as the original! 8-BIT HORDES is a colorful strategy-arcade game that is easy to learn for players of all skill levels. Collect resources, build up and defend your base, amass your army of orcs or humans and ultimately crush your opponents!

Price -84% 2.44€
Rating 7.7
Release 12 Aug 2016
Doorways: Holy Mountains of Flesh Doorways: Holy Mountains of Flesh is an Immersive Horror Adventure, featuring a Complex Story and Deep Atmosphere.

Price -97% 0.63€
Rating 7.5
Release 10 Aug 2016
Lucius Demake Lucius game has been demade, and is now ready for mayhem. Enjoy all the gore now in fewer pixels and fewer colors. The original game has been fully demade to achieve the atmosphere of an 80's style gory adventure. Lucius is now killing all the pixels and there isn't a damn thing anyone can do about it.

Price -89% 0.57€
Rating 8.7
Release 08 Aug 2016
Bear With Me - Episode One Bear With Me is an episodic noir adventure game. Amber is trying to find her missing brother while being aided by her trusty teddy, Ted E. Bear.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.3
Release 08 Aug 2016
Lethe - Episode One Lethe is a first person adventure with survival horror elements. Explore an atmospheric and frightening world and uncover the dark secrets of your origins.

Price -93% 0.97€
Rating 7.9
Release 01 Aug 2016
Crime Secrets: Crimson Lily Stop the mysterious killer!

Price -94% 0.92€
Rating 7.0
Release 14 Jul 2016
Ultimate Booster Experience Take a ride on a huge 200m (600ft) swing with breathtaking views or try other height challenges! A vast modern city is your playground. Height and speed are your passion. Ultimate height experience for VR!

Price 4.99€
Rating 7.1
Release 14 Jul 2016
Dead End Road Dead End Road is an atmospheric driving game, with a low-fi aesthetic and procedurally generated elements. Complete your journey to seek the assistance of the old witch at Dead End Road; Get there before daybreak and perhaps, just perhaps, you can escape this nightmare.

Price -75% 0.74€
Rating 7.9
Release 08 Jul 2016
Mr. Pumpkin Adventure Mr. Pumpkin's Adventure is a point-and-click puzzle game. The main character of this game is Mr. Pumpkin who lost his memories. During the adventure, you will help him solve all the puzzles, which will eventually unveil an evil plot.

Price 3.99€
Rating 7.7
Release 08 Jul 2016
The Brookhaven Experiment The Brookhaven Experiment has terrified players and creators like Jacksepticeye and Markiplier. A VR shooter classic with bone-chilling atmosphere and easy-to-master controls it is a perfect experience to share with friends and family. Face down waves of horrifying monsters in VR’s scariest shooter!

Price 11.79€
Rating 8.1
Release 05 Jul 2016
Potato Thriller Known for deep frying his victims, Potato Man is the most notorious serial killer out there...

Price 4.99€
Rating 7.6
Release 22 Jun 2016
Cursed Her future, as well as of the whole world depends on her ingenuity and bravery. The path to her fiancé is blocked by ghosts, dragons, demons and other creatures from beyond. Will she overcome her fears? Will she find her beloved? Play "Cursed" and find out!

Price -50% 2.49€
Rating 7.9
Release 17 Jun 2016
Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.3 Tatarigoroshi Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.

Price -50% 3.99€
Rating 9.2
Release 17 Jun 2016
SWARMRIDERS SWARMRIDERS is a FREE "endless runner"+"twin stick shooter" ARCADE mashup. A "machine gun swarm surfing minigame" made as a bonus content for the UBERMOSH community.

Price Free to play
Rating 8.3
Release 15 Jun 2016
Grim Legends 3: The Dark City Hunt monsters in the gothic city!

Price -59% 6.11€
Rating 8.7
Release 02 Jun 2016
Skautfold: Shrouded in Sanity Discover the secrets of the estate, as you look for answers among the violent inhabitants. A strange and repelling madness took hold of the servants roaming the halls, and they will attack on sight, for their madness is one rooted in a deeper understanding of cosmic insignificance.

Price -80% 1.95€
Rating 7.6
Release 27 May 2016
Madness Cubed Online shooter with a variety of game modes and a huge arsenal of weapons. Fight with other players, or team up with them to defeat hordes of zombies and mutants!

Price -36% 1.02€
Rating 7.4
Release 12 May 2016
HordeZ If you are looking for a on-rails arcade experience that blends between classics like Doom, Left 4 dead and House of the Dead then we got you covered! Fast and simple gameplay that will bring you into a creepy world of zombies and demons. Show your skills to the world through our global leadboard system!

Price 16.99€
Rating 7.8
Release 29 Apr 2016
Left Alone Left Alone plunges you into a first-person psychological horror journey, where darkness and memories intertwine. As secrets emerge from shadows, use your wits to solve puzzles and explore haunting, forgotten locations. Every step echoes with the past; can you face the truths that await?

Price -80% 1.37€
Rating 7.1
Release 28 Apr 2016
Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition Rescue squad captain Watase Kasasagi wakes up without his memories in the middle of his most critical mission yet-- a nuclear meltdown at a research facility. In an unfamiliar place and without his years of training, he must rescue the survivors and escape...

Price -79% 7.19€
Rating 8.5
Release 27 Apr 2016
Mythic Wonders: The Philosopher's Stone Find the Philosopher's Stone!

Price -90% 1.58€
Rating 8.2
Release 21 Apr 2016

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!