The year is ending, and we’ve been reflecting on games that had us quite agitated when we played them—doubling up as intense horror experiences despite not officially being part of the genre. From creepy locations and terrifying monstrosities to truly frightening stories and thematic integrations, these titles keep you on the edge of your seat. Some have specific moments that continue to haunt you long after you’ve stopped playing for the day.
We’ve put together a list of some of the most memorable experiences we’ve had within that framework. Some of them really turn things up a notch, so you might want to keep a light on if you decide to dive in! Let’s get started.
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### 1. Elden Ring
Despite a visually bright world in The Lands Between, *Elden Ring* hides poignant, truly frightening tales in the backgrounds of its dungeons or in plain sight for the Tarnished to uncover. The lore behind those mysterious pots in any of Shadow of the Erdtree’s dungeons reveals a darker side to Queen Marika, making her actions all the more terrifying to contemplate.
Grotesque monstrosities accost you, sometimes in the most beautiful places, while the darkest corners of The Lands Between or the Shadow Tree’s cursed landscape hide melancholy secrets and deadly enemies—enough to challenge even the best builds.
Fans of *Bloodborne* might be familiar with the concept of Madness, echoed here with haunting stories like Mohg’s, whose grim tale has far-reaching implications throughout the story.
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### 2. Demon’s Souls (Remake)
Bluepoint Studios’ *Demon’s Souls* remake masterfully recreates its original environments while adding a layer of realism that makes its oppressive levels and many threats all the more palpable. Each boss, while familiar, now feels even more terrifying thanks to updated character models that lend them an imposing presence.
This enhanced realism extends to many of the grunt enemies as well, heightening the tension between boss runs and making the entire experience well worth revisiting.
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### 3. Lies of P
*Lies of P* weaves its horror components subtly into the narrative, integrating the spooky atmosphere as an essential backdrop to the bizarre puppet frenzy and its aftermath. We won’t soon forget the harrowing fight against Andreus’ mutated form or the battle with the Monster of the Swamp.
The DLC raises the stakes further, taking us to a twisted zoo where the inhabitants are as terrifying as they are relentless.
This game hides morbid tales behind its lore, encouraging exploration into the extremes both Alchemists and their enemies go to achieve their goals. Romeo’s disturbing time with Arlecchino in *Overture* alone earns *Lies of P* a solid place on this list.
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### 4. Control: Ultimate Edition
At its core, *Control* places you within a supernatural realm existing outside time and space, at the center of Altered World Events that warp reality. The game cleverly cloaks its horror in a sci-fi layer, surprising players with moments that raise the hackles.
The SCP-style terror intensifies as you assume the role of the FBC’s new Director, confronting warped realities and whispered threats. It’s these chilling elements that make *Control* a no-brainer inclusion on this list.
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### 5. Death Stranding 2
Two words: Beached Things (BTs). These lost souls are genuinely terrifying to encounter, not only because of their horrifying appearances and unique attacks but also due to the ever-present risk of a Voidout—a cataclysm triggered by their interaction with the living.
BTs’ frequency makes every step through *Death Stranding* feel like a trek through a world still haunted by the devastating event that began it all.
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### 6. Returnal
Housemarque excelled at weaving psychological horror into *Returnal*, embedding tension within Selene’s “time” on the alien planet Atropos. The menacing alien monsters pose a constant threat, but the real terror unfolds as you uncover the layers of the time loop.
This slowly peeling back of a dread timeline sets the stage for truly frightening encounters and revelations, leaving a lasting impression even after the credits roll.
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### 7. Remnant II
No matter where your adventure begins in *Remnant II*, the procedurally generated worlds quickly turn weird and scary. From a burning house stuck in a time loop to the harrowing pursuit of the Nightweaver in the Tormented Asylum, this game ramps up the horror in unexpected ways.
Themes of desolation and decay permeate the environments, blending perfectly with the lore and the imposing designs of some fearsome bosses—sure to challenge even the bravest Travelers.
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### 8. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition
CD Projekt Red’s masterful adaptation of the novels thrives on folklore and monster contracts, delivering chilling stories and horrifying adversaries. The game expertly captures a sense of anticipation and dread, especially if you uncover the second DLC’s deepest secrets or embark on side quests with unsettling consequences in the Skellige Isles.
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### 9. Metro Exodus (Enhanced Edition)
4A Games’ post-apocalyptic shooter is packed with moments that trigger sheer panic, often forcing you into frantic button-mashing to survive. The world is unforgiving, with inhospitable areas and terrifying mutant creatures lurking in the dark.
The constant need to manage gas masks and resources fuels an atmosphere that’s arguably survival horror in disguise—challenging and terrifying in equal measure.
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### 10. A Plague Tale: Innocence
Navigating a 14th-century world plagued by the Inquisition is harrowing enough, but Asobo Studio adds another chilling layer by factoring in the Black Plague—plus supernatural elements that heighten the horror.
Hugo’s journey alongside his sister, battling both illness and external threats, combines terror and awe. The erosion of innocence and the melancholy atmosphere of a land consumed by plague make this one of the most haunting stories you’ll encounter.
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### Bonus: Ghost of Yotei
While Atsu’s role as an onryo is frightening, *Ghost of Yotei* introduces a supernatural myth surrounding the Spider Lily General, whose armor is central to a haunting tale.
The trek through his neglected estate, haunted by his ghost, is suffused with ominous moments—the brutalizing presence he casts over other bounty hunters, somber puzzles, and shadowed windows.
The eventual battle is as haunting as the journey through his life story, which explores a morbid take on a father’s love and leads to unsettling conversations. The general’s oppressive home atmosphere underscores the narrative’s suffocating dread.
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That’s a wrap on some of the scariest experiences we’ve had outside of the horror genre. We’d argue that many of these games deserve a place among the genre’s finest, given how effectively they evoke fear and tension in unique and memorable ways.
Ready to brave these haunting worlds? Just remember to keep the lights on!
https://gamingbolt.com/10-ps5-games-that-arent-horror-but-feel-terrifying