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Survival horror is one of gaming’s most nebulous genres. Traditionally defined by limited resources, oppressive tension, and a fight for survival against terrifying odds, the genre has evolved far beyond its roots. Modern survival horror often bleeds into psychological thrillers, sci-fi adventures, and even open-world exploration. What ties it all together is a constant sense of dread and vulnerability, where victory feels hard-earned and fleeting. From cinematic blockbusters to minimalist indies, survival horror has proven to be one of the most fascinating corners of gaming.
Some of the best survival horror games today–Alan Wake 2, Resident Evil 4, and Alien: Isolation, among others–show how much depth there is to the genre. Each one offers an incredible experience, from the psychological descent of their characters, to creature-driven chaos. Whether you prefer story-heavy experiences or raw tension in the dark, there’s something here to haunt everyone’s dreams.
We’ve broken down some of the most engaging and heart-pounding survival horror games that you can play this Halloween season. If you’re more interested in only certain elements of these games, be sure to check out our picks for the best horror games and best survival games.
