The year 2024 has proven to be a pivotal moment for horror video games, showcasing an impressive lineup ranging from highly awaited sequels like Sons of the Forest to a surprising success story in the form of the Silent Hill 2 Remake. Regardless of whether they emerged from large studios or independent developers, both atmospheric and psychological themes were masterfully integrated into the year’s horror offerings.
Nevertheless, a handful of these titles truly distinguished themselves, delivering haunting environments, relentless scares, and profound explorations into the human psyche. Utilizing criteria such as Metacritic scores, accolades, and insightful reviews from Screen Rant, here are some of the standout horror games of 2024.
10
Indika: A Stylish, Surreal Iconoclast
Metascore: 80
Indika emerges as a narrative-driven experience that immerses players in the harrowing tale of a 19th-century nun struggling with isolation, illness, and haunting visions of the Devil. The game uniquely combines 3D exploration and engaging walking simulator segments with innovative 8-bit platforming flashbacks that delve into the protagonist’s troubled life.
This daring title presents a starkly surreal portrayal of an unyielding world, compelling players to navigate a complex system of points and perks that reflects its nihilistic narrative. With an 80 on Metacritic and a favorable review score of 7/10 from Screen Rant, Indika is available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, offering an experience that must be seen to be believed.
9
Pacific Drive: A Melancholy Car-Based Survival Game
Metascore: 79
Pitting players against the eerie expanse of the Olympic Exclusion Zone, Pacific Drive casts you into a world full of fatal anomalies. Players must maintain their vehicle while scavenging for resources and wrestling with the remnants of those who failed to leave the zone. This unique blend of survival horror and driving mechanics yielded a Metacritic score of 79, complemented by an impressive 8/10 from Screen Rant.
8
Slitterhead: A Wildly Creative Body Horror RPG
Metascore: 62
Created by Keiichiro Toyama, the mind behind classic horror franchises, Slitterhead introduces players to a bodiless entity known as the Hyoki, who possesses unsuspecting civilians in a vibrant yet grim Kowlong City. The game masterfully intertwines puzzle-platforming challenges with action RPG elements, allowing players to upgrade a cast of characters amidst a backdrop of horrifying mutated beings.
Despite receiving a mixed response with a score of 62 on Metacritic, Slitterhead has been praised for its originality, earning it a 6/10 review from Screen Rant.
7
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 – An Atmospheric Dark Fantasy
Metascore: 81
A sequel to the acclaimed Senua’s Sacrifice, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 immerses players in the tumultuous journey of a Viking warrior facing cannibalistic foes and colossal giants, all while grappling with her own hallucinations. This visually stunning title weaves a dark tale of power and destiny that keeps players engaged.
6
STALKER 2: A Triumphant Return to the Zone
Metascore: 73
Marked as the first major installment in over a decade, STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl brings players back to the haunting Chornobyl Exclusion Zone through the eyes of a new hero, Skif. As he confronts the eerie fallout of his past, he faces mutated monsters and treacherous anomalies along with menacing human foes.
This long-awaited sequel combines immersive survival elements with visually stunning environments, culminating in a Metacritic score of 73 and a glowing 9/10 from Screen Rant.
5
Crow Country: A PS1-Inspired Horror Romp
Metascore: 84
Catering to fans of vintage horror gaming, Crow Country takes players on a nostalgic journey reminiscent of PS1 titles. Developed by SFB Games, this quirky experience invites you to explore an abandoned theme park filled with bizarre characters while seeking its missing founder. Receiving an 84 on Metacritic and a 9/10 from Screen Rant, this title excels as a nostalgic homage to classic horror.
4
Sons of the Forest: A New-And-Improved Survival Horror Sequel
Metascore: 86
Sons of the Forest, the anticipated sequel to The Forest, fully launched in February 2024, placing players on a perilous island rife with cannibals and grotesque creatures. As players strive to uncover the island’s dark secrets, they are challenged to establish defenses and survive together in co-op mode with up to eight players.
This title enhances its predecessor with improved graphics, sophisticated AI, a sprawling map, and a well-structured narrative, securing a commendable 86 on Metacritic.
3
Alan Wake 2: Lake House DLC – A Brilliant Cross-Over with Control
Metascore: 72
The Lake House DLC for Alan Wake 2 serves as a brilliant narrative bridge connecting the worlds of both Alan Wake and Remedy Entertainment’s other title, Control. Preserving the classic survival horror mechanics, this DLC offers tense encounters and a gripping storyline that critiques AI-generated art, resulting in a score of 72 on Metacritic.
2
Mouthwashing: A Disturbing Dive into Deep Space
Metascore: 86
Mouthwashing unfolds an unsettling narrative starting with the catastrophic crash of the freighter Tulpar, leading its crew into psychological depths as they turn on each other amidst life-threatening challenges. With its haunting atmosphere, nonlinear storytelling, and impactful themes, players are likely left pondering long after the game concludes.
This title, with its clever character development and immersive soundtrack, has successfully garnered an impressive 86 on Metacritic, standing out as one of the most significant surprises in horror gaming this year.
1
The Silent Hill 2 Remake: Screen Rant’s Best Horror Game of 2024
Metascore: 86
Despite skepticism surrounding the Silent Hill 2 Remake, the October release proved that expectations can be shattered in the best possible way. This stunning update, crafted by Bloober Team, retains the essence of the original while delivering breathtaking enhancements and fresh twists, reaffirming the series’ lasting relevance.
As players follow James Sunderland on his haunting journey through the fog-laden town, they encounter grotesque manifestations of their own traumas and fears. This deeply profound exploration of guilt, grief, and healing cements the remake’s status with an Metacritic score of 86 and an 8/10 review from Screen Rant, solidifying its position as the premier horror title of 2024.