The Iconic Horror Games Writers Can Use For Inspiration

Over the years, the horror genre has been filled with material from a variety of different mediums. For many, movies enabled them to experience this particular category of entertainment in all its glory, while for others, novels were the go-to option. Another hugely popular horror-filled medium is in the gaming world, with an array of iconic releases coming to the fore throughout the history of gaming. 

After all, there’s no genre that can make you feel alive quite like horror games do. Of course, other titles have their appeal, too, be it all-action shooters such as Call of Duty: Warzone or online slot games like Panther Moon, but horror games elevate the all-around gaming experience a great deal further thanks to the array of emotions the average horror-themed release evokes. From endless mortality to creeping tension, alongside the typical jump scares, it’s a genre of gaming that has not only entertained but also inspired. For writers, these types of games can give them a new angle or storyline to pursue. Essentially, horror games have enriched the overall genre and have played an integral role in many peoples’ love for all things horror.

In case you’re in need of some inspiration ahead of your next horror-themed write-up, below is a look back at some of the most iconic games to have graced this particular category of gaming. 

Silent Hill 3

With its horrific imagery and solid all-round horror feel throughout, Silent Hill 3 was an unexpected improvement on its predecessor. The game, which was available to play on PlayStation 2 and PC, was a single-player masterpiece that follows the story of Heather, who becomes embroiled in the machinations of a cult, only to discover a selection of horrors as the game progresses. A classic release many fans of the genre grew up with, Silent Hill 3 was brilliant. 

The Evil Within 2

A massively underrated game for many, The Evil Within 2 was released in 2017 on PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and provided players with a solid dose of scariness throughout. Featuring zombie-filled streets and a never-ending feeling of darkness, the game certainly took players on an eery journey from start to finish. In terms of a gaming experience, The Evil Within 2 offered gamers with the terrifying scenes they so desperately craved. As such, it’s no surprise as to why the game did so well.

BioShock

For many old-school gamers, BioShock is the greatest game ever created and it’s entirely understandable as to why. For the average writer, the game certainly possesses the ingredients needed should they be short on ideas. Of course, BioShock isn’t your typical horror as such, but it features an array of ugliness that would fit into any horror setting. From untrustworthy doctors to power-boosting needles to the occasional rogue splicer, BioShock was hardly a joyous gaming experience, instead leaving players on the edge of their seats with every evil laugh and darkened room. 

Left 4 Dead 2

A hugely successful game on both PC and Xbox 360, Left 4 Dead 2 was popular as a multiplayer release and in a single-player campaign. A fun-to-play FPS title, it features a blood-curdling witch that regularly releases cries of pain when you’re in her vicinity. Set during the aftermath of an apocalyptic pandemic, the aim of this particular release is to survive – something many horror writers focus around in specific hair-raising compositions. The aggressive zombies make Left 4 Dead 2 the classic it is, too. 

Special mention must also go to Dead Space, Resident Evil 2, The Last of Us and Amnesia: The Dark Descent.