Horror Games 2023: ranking of the scariest games of the year
By 
Freddy Mercery
Horror Games 2023: ranking of the scariest games of the year
Looking for a new horror game to have a scary Halloween 2023? We’ve gathered for you the most terrifying video games of the year!
In this list, you’ll find every kind of game that instills fear, be it psychological horror games best played solo in a grim setting, gory games with terrifying realism that will make you jump in fright, or bloody multiplayer games that are super fun to play with friends. There’s something for every horror enthusiast.
To help you choose the horror game that’s right for you, below the list you’ll find the standout details of each of these horrific titles including a brief description, the rating given by players who’ve tried the game, and a video to give you a taste of the terror awaiting you!
Hold onto your underwear; the journey to hell starts here.
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Things to know:
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The Ranking of the Best Horror Games 2023:
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You should read: |
The list explained of all Horror Video Games released in 2023 by release date
Discover all the terrifying games of 2023 sorted by release date, with notable details, available platforms, genres, features, and prices to ensure you get a cheaper purchase. Don’t hesitate to visit the game page to access all the promotions on Halloween games!
Dead Space: A third-person science fiction survival horror game
| Release Date | 27 January 2023 | Rating: 8.9 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, Xbox X|S | Place: 8 |
| Genre | Horror, Third-Person Shooter, Sci-fi, Space | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Dead Space is a Survival Horror game set in space, and it’s part of the Dead Space™ franchise, published by Electronic Arts. This episode is a remake of the title released in 2008, considered a classic of the genre. Everything has been rethought and refined, both visually and audibly, to deliver a terrifying gameplay experience, with a commitment to stay true to the original story that made the first installment successful.
Pitch:
Isaac Clarke, an engineer on a routine mission, battles for survival on a mining ship infested with Necromorphs after responding to a distress call from his girlfriend, Nicole. His fight for survival becomes a quest to unveil the ship’s sinister secrets.
Dead Space Price
Sons of the Forest: a multiplayer online survival horror game
| Release Date | 23 February 2023 | Rating: 8.2 |
| Platform/s | PC, Will also be released on the Xbox Series X and PS5 after early access is over. | Place: 19 |
| Genre | Survival, Open World, Multiplayer, Survival Horror | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 8 players) | VR: No |
To know:
Sons of the Forest is the sequel to The Forest (2018), an indie horror game where you must survive on an island populated with cannibals and even fiercer creatures. Several improvements have been made, including easier hunger and thirst management, more refined graphics, and animations that make crafting and construction appear more realistic. In its early access debut, the game ranked in the top 10 PC games of 2023 for more than 10 weeks!
Pitch:
Sons of the Forest sends you to a remote island to rescue a missing billionaire, but it’s overrun by cannibals. To survive, you’ll craft, build, and battle in its dynamic open world with shifting seasons, delivering a thrilling survival horror adventure.
Sons of the Forest Price
Scars Above: a third-person science fiction horror game
| Release Date | 28 February 2023 | Rating: 6.9 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 30 |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Female Protagonist, Sci-fi | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Scars Above is a third-person action-adventure game in the science fiction genre set on an alien planet. The gameplay combines combat and exploration phases with some elements characteristic of role-playing games. The soundtrack is effective, the difficulty is well-balanced, and the story is enjoyable to follow, according to reviews.
Pitch:
A bizarre alien structure suddenly materializes in Earth’s orbit, prompting humanity to dispatch a team of daring scientists and engineers to explore. However, disaster strikes as they’re whisked away to an enigmatic and unfriendly world. Dr. Kate Ward, one of the crew members, awakens battered and bewildered, armed only with her wits and determination. To survive and reunite with her comrades, she’ll embark on a quest to uncover the secrets behind their otherworldly predicament.
Scars Above Price
Project Zero: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse: a single-player psychological horror game
| Release Date | 09 March 2023 | Rating: 7.8 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 23 |
| Genre | Horror, Sexual Content, Female Protagonist, FPS | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
The Mask of the Lunar Eclipse is a remastered version of the 4th episode of the Project Zero series released in 2008 and serves as a prequel to the other installments of the franchise. This Japanese horror game unfolds over 13 chapters where you take turns playing as 4 different characters. There are 4 difficulty levels (including a different ending in the “Horrible” mode) and a Mission mode, accessible only after completing the game, giving it a substantial replay value. Chills are guaranteed for fans of Japanese role-playing games!
Pitch:
A decade after five girls vanished from a haunted Rogetsu Island sanatorium, two of them are dead, prompting the remaining trio to revisit the island and unravel the truth behind the deaths and their forgotten past. Faced with vengeful spirits, they rely on their Camera Obscura to survive and unravel the haunting mystery.
Mask of the Lunar Eclipse Price
Barotrauma: a multiplayer submarine horror game
| Release Date | 13 March 2023 | Rating: 9.0 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 5 |
| Genre | Co-op, Multiplayer, Survival, Submarine, 2D | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 16 players) | VR: No |
To know:
Barotrauma is a 2D science fiction video game set in a nuclear submarine. You lead the crew to carry out various missions that unlock skills. You’ll face various dangers related to a hostile environment, wildlife, epidemics, and even rebellions and incompetence that could seriously compromise the submarine’s integrity. Crisis management is key in this game, already voted as the Best Hardcore Game and Best Survival Game by some specialized websites.
Pitch:
Humanity has found its new home in Europa, Jupiter’s moon. Its icy surface is a radioactive no-go, but beneath the waves, a massive ocean awaits. Dive into the challenging underwater world, forge alliances or rivalries with different factions, and uncover the deep secrets of its depths.
Barotrauma Price
The Dark Pictures Switchback VR: a PS5 horror rail shooter in VR
| Release Date | 16 March 2023 | Rating: 6.7 |
| Platform/s | PS5 | Place: 31 |
| Genre | First Person, On Rails Shooter, Horror | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: Yes |
To know:
The Dark Pictures Switchback is a PS5 horror game presented as a spin-off of The Dark Pictures Anthology series. Built on the model of Until Dawn Rush of Blood VR (2016), this rail shooter is played in virtual reality with the PlayStation® VR2. While on a rollercoaster, you traverse environments specific to the eponymous franchise in a first-person shooter mode. This PS5 exclusive has very responsive gameplay and infinite ammo, a multitude of jump scares, making it a rather fun and dynamic horror FPS.
Pitch:
Experience thrilling roller coaster rides through The Dark Pictures Anthology’s horrifying worlds, facing iconic monsters like the Curator, Lady of the Manor, and more. Survive by making swift choices while unraveling the train’s mysteries. Can you escape the nightmare, or will you become its next victim?
The Dark Pictures Switchback Price
Resident Evil 4: 3rd-person survival horror against Zombies
| Release Date | 24 March 2023 | Rating: 9.2 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, Xbox X|S | Place: 4 |
| Genre | Action, Horror, Survival Horror, Zombies, Dark | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: Yes (PlayStation VR2) |
To know:
Released as Biohazard 4 in Japan in 2005, Resident Evil 4 is considered by many as the best horror game of all time. It played a significant role in the evolution of third-person shooters and survival horror games. In this remake, everything has been optimized to provide a more modern, smoother gameplay, and some parts of the story have been revisited to offer an even scarier brand new experience.
A must-play for those seeking terrifying games!
Pitch:
Six years after the Raccoon City chaos, survivor Leon S. Kennedy embarks on a mission to save the president’s abducted daughter. His journey takes him to a secluded European village teeming with locals under the control of a mind-bending parasite. With fearless determination, Leon fights through waves of infected villagers and squares off against the enigmatic cult leader.
Resident Evil 4 Price
Crimson Snow: an indie psychological horror game where choices matter
| Release Date | 29 March 2023 | Rating: 9.4 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 2 |
| Genre | Horror, Exploration, Walking Simulator, Cinematic | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Crimson Snow is an indie horror game and arguably one of the best value-for-money options for a successful Halloween night or a truly terrifying Christmas evening! Drawing inspiration from Japanese folklore in horror gaming, it immerses players in a haunted world filled with terrifying creatures and intense challenges.
Played in first-person, Crimson Snow boasts impressive visuals, an effective soundtrack with multiple jump scares, and most notably, different endings based on your choices.
Pitch:
A celebration turns bloody. Your romantic Christmas date with your girlfriend Joyce takes a thrilling turn when an unexpected guest crashes the party. Now it’s up to you to ensure you both make it through this supposed-to-be festive night alive.
Crimson Snow Price
Dredge: an open-world psychological horror and survival RPG
| Release Date | 30 March 2023 | Rating: 8.7 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 10 |
| Genre | Exploration, Fishing, Lovecraftian, Adventure | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Another gem of an indie horror game that immerses you in a very Lovecraftian universe. Dredge is an open-world fishing game where your explorations are paced by a day/night cycle, making time management a central gameplay aspect. Suffice it to say, navigating at night is not advisable as encounters can be terrifying. Keep an eye on your panic gauge to avoid succumbing to madness.
Pitch:
Embark on a solo fishing adventure as you explore the enigmatic archipelago’s hidden depths, where eerie secrets lurk beneath the waves. Reel in your haul, pimp out your boat, and unveil buried mysteries, but beware – not everything you dredge up should resurface!
Dredge Price
Eresys: a gory co-op horror FPS
| Release Date | 20 April 2023 | Rating: 5.8 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 35 |
| Genre | Action, Horror, Online Co-Op, Lovecraftian, 3D | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 4 players), Lan Co-op | VR: No |
To know:
Eresys is a cooperative horror game for 4 players online or on LAN, currently in Early Access. Played in first-person, this dark game channels the great terrors of H.P. Lovecraft’s world, where you battle supernatural creatures. Explore, find items that will allow you to cast spells to combat these monsters from beyond.
Pitch:
After being banished, a former cult member opened a dimensional portal on an island, soon to be overtaken by terrifying monsters. Together with the other cult members, you must act quickly to send these dreadful creatures back to their world and seal the portal, or the world will be plunged into chaos.
Eresys Price
Dead Island 2: a multiplayer horror game against zombies
| Release Date | 21 April 2023 | Rating: 7.5 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 25 |
| Genre | Action, Horror, Shooter | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 3 players) | VR: No |
To know:
Anticipated since 2015, the sequel to Dead Island proves to be just as promising as the first installment for fans of 3-player multiplayer FPS. You play as one of the 6 playable characters, each with different characteristics, and must cooperate to combat hordes of infected zombies. Dark humor, bloody massacres with a mix of weapons, it’s a great package for a horror game that’s fun to play with friends.
Pitch:
A paradise island becomes a nightmarish wasteland overrun by zombies due to a deadly virus. As a survivor, you must battle through both the undead and mutated survivors to find safety. Can you endure the horrors of Dead Island 2 and escape alive?
Dead Island 2 Price
Amanda the Adventurer: point & click psychological horror
| Release Date | 25 April 2023 | Rating: 9.5 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 1 |
| Genre | Horror, First-Person, 1990’s, Old School, 3D | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Amanda the Adventurer is a highly addictive small indie horror game reminiscent of an Escape Game. This colorful puzzle game takes you back to the 1990s through a series of cartoons recorded on VHS tapes, filled with clues to solve mysteries. This old school game has received excellent reviews from players.
Pitch:
Riley inherits Aunt Kate’s house and dives into exploring her reclusive aunt’s stuff. In the attic, she stumbles upon a stash of VHS tapes, and with curiosity in high gear, Riley pops the first tape into the VCR. The tape reveals an obscure early 2000s children’s cartoon starring Amanda and her bashful sheep pal, Wooly. Despite the shoestring budget, what unfolds is mind-boggling: Amanda and Wooly start communicating through the TV. Riley can’t look away, driven by a burning desire to uncover what Amanda’s in need of.
Amanda the Adventurer Price
Bramble The Mountain King: a story rich horror/dark fantasy game
| Release Date | 27 April 2023 | Rating: 8.5 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 14 |
| Genre | Horror, Cinematic, Adventure, Atmospheric, 3D | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Bramble The Mountain King is a gem of a horror game set in the Dark Fantasy universe, especially for fans of Scandinavian mythology. It’s already been nominated in various categories (best horror games of 2023, best character, best soundtrack, best performance). The settings are stunning, the adventure is highly immersive and dynamic, often requiring precise timing. Fortunately, there are many save points.
Pitch:
Brave young Olle embarks on a perilous quest into the ominous Bramble forest to rescue his sister from the Mountain King, encountering fearsome Nordic creatures like trolls, draugar, and krakens. Only the most courageous can endure the treacherous journey to the Mountain King’s castle.
Bramble The Mountain King Price
Redfall: a multiplayer horror FPS
| Release Date | 2 May 2023 | Rating: 4.2 |
| Platform/s | PC, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 37 |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Vampires, FPS, Open World, Story Rich | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Solo, Co-op, Multiplayer, Cross Play, 1st Person | VR: Yes |
To know
Redfall is an action-adventure game where you face off against the vampire apocalypse alone or with a team. To navigate this open world, crafted by the same studio that worked on Dishonored and Prey, you can choose from 4 characters with distinct abilities. The game did not impress critics upon its release, but it is still of quality and makes for a fun horror game to play with friends.
Pitch:
The vampires have turned the quaint seaside town of Redfall into a vast nightmarish hunting ground where the sun has been obscured. Survivors organize the human resistance to fight against the bloodsuckers who either convert the strongest or feed on the weakest. Battle the darkness solo by switching between characters, or defend humanity with 4 players online, even across different platforms.
Redfall Price
Propagation Paradise Hotel: a psychological horror game in VR
| Release Date | 4 May 2023 | Rating: 8.7 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5 (PS VR2) | Place: 11 |
| Genre | Action, Survival Horror, VR, Zombies, Shooter | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 2 players) as a DLC add on | VR: Yes |
To know:
Crafted in the style of the early Resident Evil games, Propagation Paradise Hotel is a rather dark zombie game set in a tense atmosphere. You don’t have unlimited ammunition and must remember to recharge your flashlight regularly if you don’t want to end up in the dark. This is a horror game exclusively for virtual reality, with gory scenes that have earned it a nomination at Fear Fest 2023 for the best VR/AR game of the year.
Pitch:
Join Emily Diaz in the spine-tingling adventure of a lifetime as she battles savage creatures and navigates the eerie corridors of the Paradise Hotel. Armed with only her wits and resourcefulness, Emily’s mission is clear: find her missing sister and conquer the mysterious illness that lurks within the hotel’s walls. Will you help Emily survive the night and unravel the enigma that haunts this terrifying haven?
Propagation: Paradise Hotel Price
Urbex Night Security: a realistic psychological horror game
| Release Date | 8 May 2023 | Rating: 7.5 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 26 |
| Genre | Early Access, Exploration, Walking Simulator, 3D Horror | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Urbex Night Security is a first-person puzzle-solving and exploration game, currently in Early Access, set in the eerie atmosphere of an abandoned factory built in Berlin before World War II. Focused on a unique experience rather than a long story, the game still offers two different endings and surprising jump scares. It is still in development, so you can contribute to its evolution with your feedback for the developers.
Pitch:
A daring student becomes a night guard at a creepy pre-World War II factory on the city’s edge. With legends of spooky lights and eerie noises, they dive into the dark secrets. As they venture alone through the silent halls, they stumble upon something way scarier than expected. Can they beat the darkness and make it out alive?
Urbex Night Security Price
The Outlast Trials: a co-op psychological horror game
| Release Date | 18 May 2023 | Rating: 8.2 |
| Platform/s | PC, After early access will be released on Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X, and PS5 | Place: 20 |
| Genre | Early Access, Multiplayer, Horror, Co-op, PvE | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 4 players) | VR: No |
To know:
The Outlast Trials is the 3rd title in the Outlast series published by Red Barrels, following Outlast 2 and Outlast. Although it retains the fundamentals of previous episodes, this new installment is not a direct sequel. The gameplay has been enhanced with a stronger focus on cooperative play, customizable characters, and the introduction of new features. The health gauge must be closely monitored, as neglecting it can lead to hallucinations that only you can see.
The Outlast Trials has already earned the title of the best multiplayer horror game of 2023! A must-have for playing with friends.
Pitch:
In the depths of the Cold War, the Murkoff Corporation conducts disturbing experiments on abducted subjects, pushing players to cooperate in order to survive and uncover Murkoff’s sinister secrets.
The Outlast Trials Price
System Shock: a sci-fi horror FPS
| Release Date | 30 May 2023 | Rating: 8.7 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 12 |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Immersive Sim, Cyberpunk | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
System Shock is the remake of the cult game released in 1994, which inspired many science fiction games such as BioShock, Deus Ex, or Prey (and was possibly itself inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s film 2001: A Space Odyssey). The developers have made it a priority to preserve the retro experience of the original while modernizing the gameplay and streamlining the design. The atmosphere of the space station remains as chilling as ever, immersing you in growing paranoia.
System Shock 2023 has already received several awards this year and has been very well received by critics. IGN even gave it a score of 9/10.
Pitch:
A cybernetically enhanced hacker wakes up on Citadel Station, where mutated creatures and the malevolent AI SHODAN have taken over. Racing against time, the hacker must prevent SHODAN from uploading her consciousness to the internet and enslaving humanity.
System Shock Price
Killer Frequency: a story-filled single-player horror game
| Release Date | 1 June 2023 | Rating: 8.6 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place:13 |
| Genre | Adventure, Simulation, Interactive Fiction, Puzzle | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: Yes |
To know:
Killer Frequency is a retro slasher-style dark comedy (a serial killer eliminating all the protagonists) with multiple choices and different endings, set during a radio show. Narration is at the core of this interactive fiction, where the design and soundtrack immerse you in the ambiance of the 1980s. It’s a horror puzzle game in virtual reality where you’ll have to make real-time choices to save lives on the other end of the phone.
Pitch:
Forrest Nash, a fallen-from-grace big city DJ, is now rocking the late-night airwaves in Gallows Creek. On his most epic graveyard shift ever, a mysterious killer targets his callers. As the only person who can help them, wield your radio show powers, and unveil the chilling secrets behind the killer’s identity and motives.
Killer Frequency Price
Amnesia The Bunker: an indie psychological horror and survival game
| Release Date | 6 June 2023 | Rating: 8.5 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 15 |
| Genre | Dark, Stealth, Open World, Action, Horror | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Amnesia: The Bunker is the fourth installment of the Amnesia series, a benchmark franchise in the world of horror video games. Unlike many games where fear takes a backseat to action, Amnesia games immerse you in a shroud of terror and vulnerability, making them highly immersive and frightening experiences. It’s no wonder that the game is among the nominees for the Horror Games Awards 2023.
Pitch:
Stuck in a WW1 bunker armed with just one bullet, and with a relentless monster after your life, it’s all about survival! Keep those lights on, craft gear, and explore every corner to boost your chances. Uncover the secrets, find out where the soldiers and officers vanished, and unveil the diabolical nightmares lurking below this hell.
Amnesia: The Bunker Price
Greyhill Incident: an indie horror game with aliens
| Release Date | 9 June 2023 | Rating: 3.8 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 38 |
| Genre | Survival Horror, Horror, First-Person, Singleplayer | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Greyhill Incident is the black sheep of this ranking and possibly the worst horror game of the year according to the ratings and reviews. Despite exploring an interesting theme of an extraterrestrial invasion in a remote village, the dialogues appear to have been written and performed by a poor AI, and the missions are far from enjoyable. The only redeeming feature might be the 1950s US atmosphere. However, if you’re looking for a truly terrible game for Halloween, you have a contender here!
Pitch:
In the secretive town of Greyhill where UFO sightings are as common as conspiracy theories on the news, the government’s deception is no mystery to the locals. Ryan Baker, a devoted family man, stumbles upon the truth one fateful night when he spots a UFO in the sky. Convinced of government involvement and plagued by black van stalkers and rumors of sinister facilities, Ryan takes up his trusty baseball bat and revolver to protect his family. Will Ryan prevail against the alien invasion and rescue his family?
Greyhill Incident Price
Layers of Fear: a psychological horror game rich in storytelling
| Release Date | 15 June 2023 | Rating: 7.1 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5 | Place: 29 |
| Genre | Psychological Horror, Horror, First-Person, Dark | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
The horror franchise Layers of Fear is well-known among fans of psychologically psychedelic horror games. It is back with a new dark and highly immersive installment that appears to be the most accomplished, judging by the recent awards it received at the NYX Games Awards 2023 for its design and trailers. It’s neither a remake nor a sequel but rather the missing link between the various stories in the series. The game also includes the previous Layers of Fear (2016) and Layers of Fear 2, but be aware, the story has been altered!
Pitch:
In a Victorian mansion, an obsessed painter seeks to complete a haunting masterpiece. As you navigate its shifting corridors, uncover dark secrets that test your sanity. Will you finish the artwork or succumb to madness?
Layers of Fear Price
[Chilla’s Art] Night Security | 夜間警備 : a Japanese psychological horror game
Night Security : a Japanese psychological horror game’]
| Release Date | 17 June 2023 | Rating: 9 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 6 |
| Genre | Horror, Psychological Horror, Immersive, Casual | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
[Chilla’s Art] is a small independent studio that specializes in retro Japanese horror video games (with around fifteen scary games published on Steam). Night Security is the fourth episode bearing the [Chilla’s Art] tag. It offers an immersive, frightening, and highly realistic experience in the nocturnal world of security guards, populated by demonic creatures. If you have a fear of elevators, steer clear; it’s the only place where you’ll feel safe.
Pitch:
A new night security guard replaces his predecessor who went missing. Ready to dive into his work, he must complete several tasks: patrol the mysteriously deserted building, secure the doors, extinguish the lights, and usher the last stragglers out. All this, while racing against the clock to make it back for his daughter’s 7th birthday. But of course, nothing goes according to plan.
Night Security Price
Aliens: Dark Descent: a game of horror and strategy
| Release Date | 19 June 2023 | Rating: 7.7 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 24 |
| Genre | Strategy, Action, Tactical, RTS, Sci-fi, Dark | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Aliens: Dark Descent is a tactical action game that immerses you in the universe of the Aliens franchise initiated by Ridley Scott in 1979. Unlike most Aliens video games, which are typically first-person shooters (FPS), this one focuses on real-time strategy. Every death is permanent! It can be quite stressful when your opponents adapt to your tactics and manage to outmaneuver you.
Pitch:
Colonial Marines on the desolate moon Lethe uncover a horrifying secret: a Xenomorph nest, the galaxy’s deadliest creatures. Racing against time, they must halt the alien threat before it devours all life.
Aliens: Dark Descent Price
Trepang2: a gory FPS with bullet time
| Release Date | 21 June 2023 | Rating: 8.5 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, Xbox X|S | Place: 16 |
| Genre | Gore, FPS, Violent, Action, Bullet Time, Indie | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Trepang2 is a hardcore, bloody first-person shooter. It draws inspiration from games like FEAR, particularly in its use of Bullet Time, and also incorporates elements from Crysis, such as the optical camouflage suit. Players can carry up to 2 weapons plus 1 throwable weapon like a grenade or tomahawk, and they can perform slides to take cover. It’s a game firmly focused on action.
Pitch:
A scientist delves into the eerie secrets of an abandoned Soviet military site plagued by mysterious disappearances. Players must confront chilling puzzles, grotesque monsters, and a dark occult experiment uncovering a terrifying truth.
Trepang2 Price
Daymare 1994 Sandcastle: a 3rd-person survival horror game
| Release Date | 30 August 2023 | Rating: 6.7 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 32 |
| Genre | Shooter, Horror, Third Person, Survival Horror | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Daymare: 1998 Prologue, Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle is a horror shooter heavily inspired by the Resident Evil series. Considered a survival horror game, it takes place in a dark atmosphere with good sound design and jump scares that build tension. Beware, the zombies in the game are much faster than you and cannot be dodged, which means you’ll need to manage your ammunition carefully.
Pitch:
There is no safe haven where your nightmares pursue you! Special Agent Dalila Reyes, an ex-government spy, is now working with H.A.D.E.S. Entering this cutting-edge US military research center, she finds herself in its eerie, twisting depths where creepy, deadly surprises lurk. Will she survive this living nightmare?
Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle Price
The Complex Expedition: an immersive psychological horror game
| Release Date | 18 July 2023 | Rating: 9.3 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 3 |
| Genre | Horror, Exploration, Realistic, Singleplayer, 3D | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
The Complex Expedition is a psychological horror game in Early Access (still in development) that offers you a chilling adventure in the eerie world of the backrooms, a minimalist parallel universe possibly inhabited by terrifying creatures. It’s a minimalist world where you’ll feel alone, or maybe not.
Pitch:
As a Magwave researcher, you and your team plunge headfirst into the Complex on a mission to unravel a spine-tingling mystery. Disaster strikes, leaving you isolated and bewildered in the endless labyrinth of hallways known as the Backrooms. But remember, the question isn’t whether you’re alone – it’s who else might be lurking in the shadows!
The Complex Expedition Price
My Friendly Neighborhood: a humorous indie horror FPS
| Release Date | 18 July 2023 | Rating: 8.8 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 9 |
| Genre | Singleplayer, Survival Horror, Horror, Funny | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
My Friendly Neighborhood is a very fun survival horror game in FPS format that pits you against some nasty puppets, not as wicked as Chucky but definitely after you. It’s an adventure filled with puzzles to solve, featuring rather unique weapons in a very colorful world.
Note that the game has been nominated and awarded for its narrative excellence and storytelling.
Pitch:
In My Friendly Neighborhood, you step into the shoes of Gordon, a repairman tasked with deactivating a haunted TV studio’s broadcasting antenna. The catch? The once-inanimate puppets have come to life, and they’re anything but friendly. Armed with his wits and makeshift tools, Gordon must uncover the eerie secrets lurking behind these malevolent marionettes to make it through the night.
My Friendly Neighborhood Price
Unholy: a gory psychological horror game
| Release Date | 20 July 2023 | Rating: 5.2 |
| Platform/s | PC, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 36 |
| Genre | Adventure, Female Protagonist, Atmospheric | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Unholy is an intense psychological horror game that immerses you in a macabre atmosphere. The story is captivating, and the absence of genuine jump scares is more than compensated for by the artistic quality, both visually and narratively. Since the game has recently been released, the current rating probably doesn’t reflect its true potential due to a lack of votes, with some magazines giving it scores between 8 and 9/10.
Pitch:
An adventurer accidentally awakens a sinister entity while exploring a church’s ruins and must hurry to prevent it from corrupting the world. As the creature’s power intensifies, the adventurer must confront personal demons to triumph over it.
Unholy Price
Remnant 2: a souls-like multiplayer horror game
| Release Date | 25 July 2023 | Rating: 8.0 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, Xbox X|S | Place: 21 |
| Genre | Souls-like, Action, Adventure, RPG, Dark | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 3 players) | VR: No |
To know:
Remnant 2 is a third-person horror Souls-like game that can be played solo or with up to 3 players in online co-op. It is the sequel to Remnant: From the Ashes, released in 2019. In this horror RPG, you can choose one of three different characters to explore the multiple procedurally generated and frightening dungeons (which adds interesting replayability) and complete numerous quests. Battle hordes of monsters and titanic bosses to earn the best loot and improve your character.
Pitch:
Humanity’s quest for knowledge unleashed The Root, an insidious evil that ravaged our world. While we struck it a mighty blow decades ago, time is running out, and The Root still looms. You, the daring traveler, must embark on a perilous adventure through exotic realms to vanquish The Root for good. Employ your every skill, gather your allies, and save our dwindling flame of hope. Failure is not an option – the fate of humanity rests in your hands!
Remnant 2 Price
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre: a gory multiplayer horror game
| Release Date | 18 August 2023 | Rating: 7.4 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 27 |
| Genre | Horror, Multiplayer, Gore, Survival Horror, PvP | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Online PVP in 3 vs 4 format | VR: No |
To know:
Inspired by the famous film by Kim Henkel and Tobe Hooper released in 1974, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a psychological and gory horror game in which you can play as either one of the 5 victims from the series or one of the 5 killers who contributed to the success of this franchise. The game features 4-versus-3 gameplay, with some trying to escape while others try to eliminate them.
Pitch:
Ana and her friends travel to Texas to search for her missing sister, Maria. They end up in the house of the infamous cannibals, the Slaughter family. Trapped, they must find a way to escape. Will you become the hunter or the hunted in this thrilling game of survival?
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre Price
Fort Solis: a sci-fi horror thriller
| Release Date | 22 August 2023 | Rating: 6.7 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5 | Place: 33 |
| Genre | Walking Simulator, Adventure, Indie, Thriller | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Fort Solis is a space thriller set in the oppressive atmosphere of a mining complex on the planet Mars. The excellent cast brings authenticity and captivating intensity to this walking simulator-type adventure. The technology of Unreal Engine 5.2 delivers exceptional graphics quality and further enhances immersion.
Pitch:
Jack rushes to Fort Solis, a secluded Martian mining outpost, lured by a perplexing distress signal. With storm clouds looming, he bravely ventures indoors. As night descends, chaos ensues, revealing the hidden crew’s enigmatic mysteries. Jack’s path to safety is blocked by the approaching storm, and he must endure until the break of dawn.
Fort Solis Price
Ad Infinitum: a psychological horror and survival game
| Release Date | 14 September 2023 | Rating: 7.3 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, Xbox X|S | Place: 28 |
| Genre | Horror, Action, First-Person, Atmospheric, Gore | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Ad Infinitum is a fairly gory psychological horror game set during World War I. With a highly effective soundtrack, this captivating adventure will immerse you in the horrors of the trenches, where terrifying creatures lurk, or in the old family mansion that likely holds even more dreadful secrets. A nightmare world for a truly frightening game!
Pitch:
A German soldier battles not only the terrors of the front lines, but also the eerie confines of his family’s unchanging home. From eerie, noise-sensitive demons to nightmarish puppet-like creatures lurking in the dark, every corner harbors heart-pounding horror. Unearth the family’s wartime secrets and solve mind-bending puzzles as he attempts to escape this nightmarish war and finally attain inner peace.
Ad Infinitum Price
Deceit 2: a multiplayer survival horror game
| Release Date | 14 September 2023 | Rating: 6.2 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5 (Announced) | Place: 34 |
| Genre | Multiplayer, Survival Horror, Social Deduction | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Online PvP (up to 9 players) | VR: No |
To know:
Deceit 2 is a terrifying game that thrives on treachery and deceit. It’s a diabolical social experience where among the 6 to 9 players, 2 are traitors who must be unmasked to escape the demon and master of the game. Forge alliances, make sacrifices, but do not be mistaken; the unity of the innocents is their strength, and if mistrust creeps in, the outcome will be fatal.
It’s worth noting that this game was awarded at Fear Fest 2023.
Pitch:
In a spine-chilling occult ritual, a once-well-known family was wiped out, leaving behind only eerie echoes. The mystery lay dormant until the fearless Truth Seekers Anonymous decided to investigate. Now, you’re entangled in a sinister Ritual of Deceit, orchestrated by a wicked Game Master. Get ready for a pulse-pounding adventure!
Deceit 2 Price
HumanitZ: a survival horror game against zombies
| Release Date | 18 September 2023 | Rating: 7.9 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 22 |
| Genre | RPG, Adventure, Action, Survival, Zombies | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 4 players) | VR: No |
To know:
HumanitZ is an early access survival horror RPG heavily inspired by Project Zomboid. Play with up to 4 players in co-op mode to try to survive in this vast post-apocalyptic open world. Customize your survivor, build your fortress, and defend your life against fast and intelligent zombies.
Pitch:
In a world ravaged by a zombie apocalypse, humanity teeters on the brink of extinction. Zeeks, the relentless apex predators, now rule the land, and surviving humans are scarce. But you hold the power to change the game, to restore humanity’s dominance. Do you dare to risk it all by plundering cities for valuable loot, even as Zeek hordes lurk nearby? Or will you forge your path in the wild, relying on your wits to hunt, fish, and farm for survival?
HumanitZ Price
Lies of P: a souls-like horror RPG
| Release Date | 18 September 2023 | Rating: 8.3 |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, Xbox One | Place: 18 |
| Genre | Souls-like, Action, Exploration, Action RPG, 3D | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
Lies of P is a macabre adaptation of the Pinocchio story, decidedly aimed at an adult audience (or grown-up children!). With gameplay inspired by Dark Souls, Bloodborne, or more recently Steelrising, this Souls-like offers dynamic and fluid combat in a devastated city. It can’t be categorized as a horror game, although some of the characters are particularly grotesque.
The game has already received awards at the Gamescom Awards 2022 (Best RPG, Best Action-Adventure Game, Most Anticipated PlayStation Game).
Pitch:
You’re not your typical puppet; Geppetto’s creation granted you the incredible ability to manipulate the truth. In the treacherous city of Krat, rife with deceitful monsters and shady characters, your powers might fall short. Amidst a world where lies rule, trust is scarce, and self-identity elusive, you’ll confront trials that push your limits and fortitude. Yet, with courage, you could uncover the elusive truth you yearn for.
Lies of P Price
Demonologist: a multiplayer exorcism game
| Release Date | 25 September 2023 | Rating: 9.0 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 7 |
| Genre | Horror, Multiplayer, Online Co-Op, Co-op, Dark | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player, Online Multiplayer Co-op (up to 4 players) | VR: No |
To know:
With Demonologist, you dive into the demonic world of exorcism, either solo or in online co-op with up to 4 players. Unreal Engine 5 brings a horrifying realism to character design that rivals even Phasmophobia, a reference in the co-op exorcism game genre since 2020. The sound atmosphere is oppressively immersive, and the game’s random algorithm will introduce changes with each playthrough. Beware! The walls have ears, and the words you speak could have unexpected effects!
Pitch:
A team of demonologists must collaborate to exorcise a powerful demon from a possessed person in an eerie asylum before it escapes and wreaks havoc on the world.
Demonologist Price
World Of Horror : a point & click horror game
| Release Date | 19 October 2023 | Rating: 8.4 |
| Platform/s | PC | Place: 17 |
| Genre | Early Access, Horror, Survival Horror, Lovecraftian | Steam Deck: Yes |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
World Of Horror is a chilling and merciless game, perfect for PCs and laptops with modest configurations. Heavily inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft and Junji Ito, this small, Old School 2D roguelike effectively reminds us that there’s no need for monstrous graphics and frequent jump scares to terrify players. Turn-based combat unfolds alongside puzzles to solve in an environment descending into madness. Will you survive long enough to uncover the various endings?
The game in its Early Access phase has already received multiple awards.
Pitch:
In the eerie town of Shiokawa, Japan, the Old Gods stir, threatening the world’s end. As paranormal investigators, players must uncover town mysteries and confront otherworldly beings to thwart the impending apocalypse.
World Of Horror Price
Alan Wake 2: a psychological horror thriller
| Release Date | 27 October 2023 | Rating: SOON |
| Platform/s | PC, PS5, Xbox X|S | Place: 39 |
| Genre | Action, Horror, Adventure, Third Person, Thriller | Steam Deck: No |
| Features | Single Player | VR: No |
To know:
The renowned novelist Alan Wake returns to confront his worst nightmares in this third-person psychological horror game, more than 11 years after the first installment. The novelty of this latest installment is the ability to also play as Saga Anderson, an FBI agent. This role-switching allows Alan Wake 2 to navigate between bloody survival horror and a well-crafted nightmare thriller, supported by a rich narrative.
Pitch:
Thirteen years after the famous thriller writer Alan Wake mysteriously disappeared, eerie ritualistic murders plague Bright Falls, Washington. FBI Agent Saga Anderson is on the case, but she’s quickly pulled into a spine-chilling supernatural nightmare spun by Wake himself. As she unravels the mystery, she unearths a sinister town history – the malevolent Dark Presence that warps minds into a living nightmare. Can Anderson save Bright Falls, or will she become the Dark Presence’s next victim? And will Wake ever return to the world of the living?
Alan Wake 2 Price
What makes a good horror video game in 2023?
Horror game enthusiasts are primarily seeking an adrenaline rush. To achieve this, a horror game must include several of the following elements:
- A frightening atmosphere: The game should make the player uncomfortable, causing them to feel vulnerable, anxious, worried, or downright terrified.
- An intriguing story: Discovering the reasons behind the horror they face allows players to become more immersed in the game.
- Disturbing characters: The game’s characters should be uncontrollable, unpredictable, and horrifying to evoke intense emotional reactions from players.
- Creepy sound design: Sudden noises for jump scares and sinister music to create a gloomy and anxiety-inducing ambiance.
- Puzzles and riddles: To increase player engagement and add an extra dimension to gameplay, puzzles raise the game’s difficulty and stress, especially when pursued by enemies.
- Possibility of death: The fear of dying in the game adds extra tension and allows players to experience a powerful adrenaline rush.
- Rewards: Players should be rewarded for their progress in the game, whether it’s through points, upgrades, or unlocking additional levels.
- Immersive gameplay: Players should identify with the main character to feel the full horror of their adventure in real-time.
In Summary, a good horror game must offer a frightening atmosphere, an intriguing story, immersive gameplay, disturbing characters, well-chosen sounds and music, puzzles and riddles, the possibility of death, and rewards for advancing in the game.
How to Choose the Best Horror Game of 2023?
The choice of a good horror video game depends on your personal preferences regarding gameplay, storyline, and graphics. Here are some criteria to consider when selecting a horror game:
- Type of Gameplay: Horror games can be divided into two main categories: survival and action. Survival games focus on puzzle-solving and avoiding dangers, while action games emphasize combat and confrontation. Determine which type of gameplay you prefer before choosing a horror game.
- Difficulty Level: Some horror games are very challenging, while others are more accessible. If you’re looking for a challenge, opt for a game with a high difficulty level. If you’re seeking a scary yet approachable experience, choose a game with a lower difficulty level.
- Storyline and Plot: Horror games can have complex and captivating storylines, while others are more straightforward. If you’re looking for a horror experience that delves deep into the story, go for a game with a strong plot.
- Graphics: Horror games can feature realistic, stylized, or even pixelated graphics. Determine the graphical style you prefer and choose a game that matches your tastes.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and recommendations from other players to get an idea of the quality of a horror game. Also, watch gameplay videos to understand how the game plays.
- In the end, the choice of a good horror game depends on your personal preferences. Just make sure to research potential themes and violence in the game before playing to ensure it’s suitable for you.
If you’ve read this article to the end, it means you’re not easily scared! To help us improve this article and future ones, feel free to leave us your feedback!
Have a Spooky Halloween 2023, everyone!
