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
Portal of Evil: Stolen Runes Collector's Edition The gates to another world will open soon! You can stop the impending disaster, but to do so at all costs to return the stolen stamps! Vanessa is the only heiress of Abraham Van Helsinga, a member of the secret order of light guarding the peace of our world.

Price 14.79€
Rating 8.5
Release 26 May 2015
The Music Machine A teenage girl and the vengeful ghost possessing her stumble onto horrors of cosmic proportions as the latter searches for a way to murder the former.

Price -80% 0.99€
Rating 8.3
Release 06 May 2015
Mind Snares: Alice's Journey Escape from the Shadow Land!

Price -97% 0.59€
Rating 8.3
Release 23 Apr 2015
The Charnel House Trilogy Witness The Charnel House Trilogy, the chronicle of one fateful night aboard a train bound for Augur Peak. Three thrilling, horrifying adventure games in one, from the depths of the Sepulchre, starring Madeleine Roux, Peter Willington, Jonathan Grier, Jim Sterling, and Ben Chandler as Grub.

Price -83% 0.89€
Rating 7.6
Release 16 Apr 2015
Spirits of Xanadu At the farthest edge of the explored universe, the research ship Xanadu slumbers in orbit around a mysterious planet. Her systems remain active but there has been no message from her crew for months. Now a lone operative has been sent to wake the Xanadu and bring her home to Earth.

Price -80% 0.99€
Rating 7.4
Release 26 Mar 2015
White Night The dark will reveal all!Explore the macabre past of an old mansion in the 1930's and solve puzzles of light and shadows in this fully black & white survival horror! Players are trapped in this nightmare where darkness is a constant threat!

Price -96% 0.59€
Rating 7.0
Release 03 Mar 2015
Belladonna Belladonna is a gothic adventure game, twisted and dark. Take the role of a corpse girl rising from the dead in an abandoned laboratory, and unravel the mysteries concerning your own death and reanimation.

Price -90% 0.57€
Rating 6.9
Release 27 Feb 2015
Tasty Blue Tasty Blue is an underwater side-scrolling eat 'em up game. You start as a small goldfish with an insatiable appetite. After being overfed by your owner, you'll escape into the ocean and eat everything that you encounter. The more you eat, the bigger you get!

Price 6.59€
Rating 8.4
Release 10 Feb 2015
Nameless ~The one thing you must recall~ Nameless ~The one thing you must recall~ is a visual novel game designed for female audiences. It was distributed by the publisher, Cheritz, in English, Korean, and Japanese on Nov. 11th, 2013 and now it is available on Steam.

Price -30% 19.59€
Rating 8.7
Release 24 Dec 2014
Alchemy Mysteries: Prague Legends Follow orphan Eva on a trip to mystical Prague in Alchemy Mysteries: Prague Legends.

Price -72% 0.56€
Rating 7.6
Release 22 Dec 2014
The Old City: Leviathan The Old City: Leviathan is an experiment in first person exploration that focuses entirely on story. All that exists is you and the world. Set in a decaying city from a civilization long past, The Old City: Leviathan puts the player in the shoes of a sewer dwelling isolationist.

Price -90% 0.61€
Rating 6.9
Release 03 Dec 2014
Darkness Within 1: In Pursuit of Loath Nolder Explore disturbing corners of the human psyche. Delve into a dimension of nightmares, the occult and a tense psychological world created in classic Lovecraftian style. As police detective Howard E. Loreid, you are tasked to solve the murder of Clark Field, a wealthy man involved in the occult.

Price -91% 0.71€
Rating 7.0
Release 13 Nov 2014
Dark Arcana: The Carnival Find the missing woman lost in a mysterious Carnival of Horrors.

Price -93% 1.16€
Rating 8.4
Release 28 Oct 2014
Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers 20th Anniversary Edition Revisit of one of adventure gaming’s greatest classics by master storyteller Jane Jensen! Struggling bookstore owner Gabriel Knight investigates the sinister Voodoo Murders in New Orleans, discovering the secrets of his family history and unfolding his destiny in this tale of horror and suspense.

Price -83% 3.40€
Rating 8.6
Release 15 Oct 2014
Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two Unleash the power of the brush in an all new co-op adventure. Join Mickey and Oswald in an epic battle to save the magical world of Wasteland and change it forever. Interact with your favorite characters like never before in the most heroic adventure yet.

Price 19.50€
Rating 7.4
Release 06 Oct 2014
Metal Dead A hilariously terrifying adventure filled with laughs, blood, insanity, and of course... hordes of the undead.

Price 3.99€
Rating 8.1
Release 06 Oct 2014
Left in the Dark: No One on Board Discover what connects a lost ship’s disappearance with Devil’s Island and a local family’s unsolved murder.

Price -97% 0.51€
Rating 7.9
Release 02 Oct 2014
Silence of the Sleep You play as a man called Jacob Reeves. A man who has lost his reason to live. He throws himself into a blackness to end his misery, but instead of it being the end he wakes up without a memory of his life before.

Price -92% 0.44€
Rating 7.1
Release 01 Oct 2014
Kraven Manor Turn out the lights, take a deep breath, and prepare yourself. Explore the depths of the immersive, atmospheric world of Kraven Manor. Uncover its secrets, solve its mystical puzzles, and face its growing threat. Face your fears and see if you have what it takes...the doors of Kraven Manor await you.

Price Free to play
Rating 7.1
Release 26 Sep 2014
Time Mysteries 3: The Final Enigma In the face of the looming magical cataclysm, Ester Ambrose has to fight to save her future once again!

Price -96% 0.70€
Rating 7.8
Release 11 Sep 2014
Brink of Consciousness: Dorian Gray Syndrome Collector's Edition To free your beloved from captivity, you must venture into a maniacal world in this Special Collector's Edition of BRINK OF CONCIOUSNESS: DORIAN GRAY SYNDROME; an immersive tale of chilling surprise that's chock full of extras including bonus gameplay, concept art, soundtrack, and much more!

Price -51% 4.95€
Rating 8.0
Release 18 Jul 2014
World of Subways 2 – Berlin Line 7 Volume 2: "U7 - Berlin" is the next release continuing the successful product series " World of Subways" introducing famous subway lines around the world to all subway enthusiasts. After Vol. 1, Vol. 2 contains the route U7 of Berlin`s subway.

Price 14.99€
Rating 7.1
Release 12 Jun 2014
The Lost Crown Embark on an eerie ghost-hunting adventure, featuring real evidence of paranormal activity, to solve the mystery of the Lost Crown. Be warned, to seek advice from the dead can have bitter consequences.

Price -93% 0.72€
Rating 7.8
Release 06 Jun 2014
Monochroma Monochroma is a cinematic puzzle platformer. It’s a game about being a kid, growing up with a little brother that needs your help, facing obstacles and solving unique puzzles in a dystopian 1950's setting.

Price -88% 2.42€
Rating 7.1
Release 28 May 2014

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!