Horror gaminghas gone through its fair share of challenges, trying to shake off the unfair stigma of being games riddled with jumpscares with no inherent value. True fans of this genre know how immersive a horror game can be if it executes its gameplay elements well. The best horror games let players enjoysome of the most bone-chilling environments, unnerving characters, and incredible plotlines that are as dark and foreboding as they come.
Most people assume that the truest form of horror gaming doesn’t provide players with a means to defend themselves against the threats that stand in their way. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, some of the best horror games do a great job of scaring players out of their wits using the first-person perspective, making them panic as they fumble to use weapons to take out their foes in style.
It’s a shame that theF.E.A.R.series hasn’t continued into the modern gaming landscape, especially given what a technical feat this series was when it launched. Featuring amazing graphics and one of the most iconic antagonists in the medium, the first game was a landmark achievement for horror gaming. Players couldn’t consider themselves safe even with numerous weapons anda trained squad aiding them in their mission.
To this day, the sight of Alma sends shivers down a player’s spine. The atrocities that this young psychic suffered at the hands of self-serving adults turned her into a vengeful presence. Watching her make a resounding impact every time she takes center stage shows that no number of bullets will take her out. Thankfully, there are many enemies players can shoot down using a vast array of powerful weaponry. But the smart enemy AI ensures that players will be on their toes every step of the way.
There’s no denying thatResident Evil 7: Biohazardis one of the scariest video games ever made. Its sequel, meanwhile focuses more on the action side of things. However, this also translates toVillagehaving superior shooting mechanics, higher enemy variety, and more set pieces that help the FPS gameplay shine.
Anyone who thinks that this game abandoned its horror trappings need onlyencounter the infamous babyto rest assured that Capcom hasn’t lost the ability to scare players out of their wits. It’s one of the scariest levels in a video game to date. Players who find themselves missing the claustrophobic setting ofBiohazardwill find themselves singing a different tune after avoiding the dangers of this deformed baby, which will swallow players whole if it gets its hands on Ethan.
TheMetrotrilogy is one of the greatest trios of first-person shooters players can get their hands on.Metro 2033was a breath of fresh air in a genre that placed a greater focus on spectacle over everything else. The first-person perspective can lend itself to some of the most immersive horror experiences.2033was a great example, but it’sLast Lightthat improves upon the gameplay and atmosphere of its predecessor.
The claustrophobic tunnels and heart-pounding mechanics make it all the more daunting every time players explore another level. The scary nature of this title, coupled with improved shooting mechanics, ensure thatLast Lightis the perfect marriage between terrifying horror and satisfying FPS gameplay.Metro Exodusmay be superior from a gameplay perspectiveand other such verticals, but its focus on open-world environments means that it loses a lot of the chilling atmosphere that made the first two games such a joy.
David Szymanski is one of the biggest names in the indie gaming scene. It’s clear that this developer loves the beginnings of the FPS era, since many of his games can be categorized as a part of the boomer shooter genre that has been gaining steam. Arguably the most popular game released by this developer isDusk, a classic first-person shooter that is scarier than most people would assume.
Players who want a short and captivating boomer shooter will be taken aback by the shades of Eldritch horror that rear their ugly heads as the game goes on. The environmental design and fast-paced encounters are sublime, letting players enjoy a horror FPS that deserves more time in the spotlight. Fans of Szymanski’sIron Lungwillfind a lot to love aboutDusk, especially if they feel helpless in the former. It’s perfect for those want to enjoy a game where they can shoot up the foes who are forcing them to endure a bad time.
It would have been easy forLeft 4 Deadto make its horror less effective with the use of cathartic first-person shooting and a focus on co-op. However, fans who assumed that the company of their friends would make the scares of this game easier to handle will be in for a rough time. Numerous infected will home in on them, and tear them apart as they lie helpless on the ground.
