While horror games are often associated with Halloween season, they can be enjoyed year-round, and 2025 offered a fantastic selection for fans of the genre. Our list of the best horror games of 2025 covers a wide range, from AAA titles to surprise hits from independent developers.
Of course, horror is a broad concept. Therefore, the games on our list promise different experiences, from mildly creepy atmospheres to sudden, ear-splitting moments of fear. Whatever your horror threshold, you’ll find a game for yourself on this list. Let’s take a look at the most notable titles of this year.
List of the Best Horror Games of 2025
2025 left its mark on the horror genre with both new games in well-known series and fresh ideas. Here are the top 8 games you should play.
- Bye Sweet Carole
Bye Sweet Carole was a long-awaited indie horror game. In the game, you control Lana Benton, who is trying to find out what happened to Carole Simmons, who recently disappeared.
The game places great emphasis on storytelling, but its real appeal lies in its animation style. Bye Sweet Carole is a completely hand-drawn game that takes you back to the classic style of old Disney animated films. Imagine, of course, that Disney film being a horror movie. The visual aesthetics are so breathtaking that they make the story even more enjoyable. Despite some gameplay issues, the game’s unique style makes it a must-have, despite its flaws.
- That’s Not My Neighbor
This game might be the least scary option on the list. There’s nothing to make you jump out of your seat or keep you awake at night, but it has an unsettling theme that persists throughout the game. As the name suggests, in That’s Not My Neighbor, you play as a doorman, trying to determine if the person trying to enter the building actually lives there.
The doppelgangers you’re trying to catch look very similar to the building’s real residents. Therefore, it’s up to you to evaluate the subtle details presented to you and decide whether to let them in or turn them away. If you’re familiar with Paper’s Please, you’ll see that this game has a similar concept. It’s also worth noting that the full version of the game was released on Steam in 2025.
- I’m On Observation Duty 8
I’m on Observation Duty is a series that initially offers a calm atmosphere but then deceives you. Your main task is to detect changes or abnormal activity in the house by monitoring security cameras. Maybe a painting has been moved or the toilet is floating in the air. But if you think something terrifying won’t suddenly appear, you’re wrong.
While you’re scanning the cameras, you’ll be terrified by sudden jump scares that appear at unexpected moments. The lack of warnings keeps you constantly tense throughout the game. If you’re looking for a good memory puzzle game and are prepared for occasional heart attacks, this game is for you.
- Phasmophobia
Phasmophobia technically didn’t come out in 2025. However, it deserves a place on this list due to its constant updates and its arrival on PS5 in 2025. If you haven’t heard of it before, Phasmophobia offers the ultimate ghost-hunting experience.
Whether with friends or alone, you try to determine the type of ghost in your chosen location using paranormal investigation equipment. Ghost types are randomly selected each time, and there are numerous options available. So don’t expect to succeed by guesswork. Also, be prepared to die a few times, because you’re not the only one being hunted in that house.
- Little Nightmares 3
Little Nightmares 3, the final game in the trilogy, tells the story of Low and Alone. Players have the option of playing in co-op or single-player mode. This rather small duo embarks on an adventure through various levels, escaping from disturbing monsters trying to capture them.
While the actual horror factor is quite low, the eerie atmosphere throughout the game is always present, and the boss battles at the end of each level are definitely nightmarish. If you’re looking for a story-driven game with a dark and gloomy atmosphere, Little Nightmares 3 is a perfect option for you. Especially if you liked the previous two games in the series, this game has almost the same gameplay mechanics.
- R.E.P.O.
R.E.P.O. is a game you’ve almost certainly heard of this year. There are many games of this genre where you and a few friends try to complete a mission in a dangerous environment. If you’ve played games like Content Warning, Escape The Backrooms, and Lethal Company, the concept will be familiar to you.
Despite this, R.E.P.O. manages to stand out in this crowded genre. PerhapsThanks to its interesting character designs, the chaos it creates, or its genuinely fun gameplay, R.E.P.O. is a must-play for you in 2025 if you have a group of friends who love horror and co-op games.
- No, I’m Not A Human
No, I’m Not A Human is an unexpected indie horror masterpiece. You’re trapped in your house as the world ends, and it’s up to you to decide whether to let visitors in. Naturally, slamming the door in everyone’s face might seem like the safest option, but being alone isn’t always safe either.
Let the right people in and keep an eye on them once they’re inside. You’ll be told what to watch out for, so carefully examine each guest and make sure those staying with you are who they seem. If they aren’t, get rid of them. If you’re lucky, you might survive the night.
- Silent Hill f
You never know what you’ll encounter when a new Silent Hill game comes out, but Silent Hill f could be one of the best new games the series has produced in a long time. Reflecting a traditional Japanese horror atmosphere, Silent Hill f puts you in the role of Hinako in 1960s Japan.
Hinako’s house is invaded by a mysterious fog filled with monsters, and if she hopes to save her town and its inhabitants, she will have to fight them both in the real world and in the spirit world.
While marketed as a psychological horror game, Silent Hill f also features plenty of gore and traditional horror elements. Its nominations for Game Awards in categories such as Best Performance, Best Narrative, and Best Sound Design are proof of this. If you want to play the best horror game of 2025, this is the game you’re looking for.
So, what are your thoughts on the best horror games of 2025? Share your opinions with us in the comments!
