If you're a horror fan like me, then you were probably psyched to see all of the fantastic titles released over the past year, and there was no shortage of them.
We saw all types of horror subgenres, from multiplayer and survival to narrative-driven experiences. We've listed some of the top releases and the best of the best for you to check out below.
Top 10 Horror Games Released in 2023
Narrowing down which games were the best was no easy task since so many great titles were released this past year, but we included some of the ones that stuck out the most in terms of story, playability, and, of course, the scares.
Alan Wake 2
Alan Wake 2 is my top favorite horror game released this past year. It excelled in almost all aspects: an intriguing storyline, terrifying jumpscares, and immersive environments. It included some unique features never really used before, like live-action mixed in with the animation that succeeded in making things even more creepy and trippy. Even if you haven't played previous games in the franchise, it's well worth the try.
Resident Evil 4 Remake
Everyone in the world of horror should know the Resident Evil franchise, and the Resident Evil 4 Remake released this year revitalized it even more. This was the perfect opportunity for players to jump back into Resident Evil's thrilling, disturbing worlds and experience a fresh remade version of the game that truly feels like a whole new game, with revamped audio, visuals, and mechanics. Read our Resident Evil 4 review here for more insights.
Related: When is Resident Evil 4 Remake coming to PSVR 2? Answered
Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Texas Chainsaw Massacre reached the Dead by Daylight level of terror and multiplayer horror dynamic but gave us even more chaotic features to explore. With an asymmetrical team structure, the game feels even more terrifying as a Survivor as you attempt to dodge all the killers and escape alive. It's a great online horror game to play with friends and one you can continue to play repeatedly as you progress and unlock new abilities for your characters.
Sons of the Forest
Sons of the Forest is a horror game that immediately caught everyone's attention because it was much more than just your usual horror game. It not only created horror from the cannibals roaming the island and unknown terrors lurking in the caves, but it also expanded its genre to survival. Players could strive to survive in a hostile open-world environment with building aspects and even invite friends along for the ride, which is one reason that made it so great.
Dead Space Remake
Dead Space was already a unique horror experience that truly made you feel isolated and alone in this sci-fi environment surrounded by unspeakable terrors. With the remake, the game was built from the ground up with fresh visuals, audio, and functionality to create an even more immersive experience that will give you shivers. It's a must-play for horror and sci-fi lovers.
Amnesia: The Bunker
Amnesia: The Bunker was another release that genuinely shined this past year, not only because of its scary monsters and thrills but because it was something different. You were forced to think and react under pressure, completing puzzles as you're being stalked by an AI-driven monster who adapts to your playstyle. It's challenging, scary, and fun, everything a horror game should be.
The Outlast Trials
The Outlast games are known to be some of the most terrifying horror experiences out there, and Outlast Trials continues that tradition with another epic twist; this time, you can bring some friends along. The Outlast Trials excels at nail-biting moments because you only have two real options for survival: run or hide. With terrifying, realistic graphics and well-detailed environments, you will really feel like you're trapped in an experimental facility, which is the immersion we all want from the best horror games.
Lethal Company
Lethal Company is a diamond in the rough regarding horror games. Although this small indie experience may not seem like much, it blew up in a matter of days and for good reason. It's the perfect online horror game to play with friends for spooks, collaboration, and exploration. There is plenty to see and experience, and you can witness something totally unexpected with each playthrough.
Related: Is Lethal Company 4 player?
Killer Frequency
I was immediately drawn to Killer Frequency when I heard about it because it was not your usual type of horror game, but that's actually what made it so great. With a 1987 setting, it has a cozy retro feel to it but simultaneously puts you on edge as you have to help people survive a lurking serial killer via the phone. I love puzzle games, so this was a true challenge and exciting thriller that is worth the try.
Demonologist
If you're a fan of Phasmaphobia, then you'll agree that Demonologist is one of the best horror releases this past year. Not only did it succeed at being scarier than Phasmaphobia, but it pushed the limitations of supernatural investigations even further with unique settings, puzzles, and even more horrifying realistic environments. Plus, you can bring friends along and face the demons together.
These are only a few of the best horror games we received this year, but there were so many other great titles as well. Plus, even more great titles are approaching with the new year, so stay tuned for more of your favorite genre.
Looking for more of the best horror games to play? Check out 20 First Person Horror Games To Play or Best Free Scary Games on Steam on Pro Game Guides.
Published: Nov 24, 2023 04:00 pm