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Halloween is the perfect excuse to revisit the best horror games. The season brings the right mix of long nights, eerie vibes, and time to explore new releases. Whether you want a slow-burning psychological experience or quick multiplayer scares with friends, there’s something here for every mood.
October 2025 is especially stacked. Little Nightmares III lands right in time for Halloween, alongside enduring favorites like Resident Evil 4 Remake, Alan Wake II, and the best indie horror games like Darkwood. From AAA blockbusters to smaller experiments, this list breaks down the best horror games for Halloween that are worth playing this year.
- Little Nightmares III headlines October with its Halloween-timed release.
- Survival horror classics like Resident Evil 4 Remake remain essential picks.
- Narrative-heavy titles like Alan Wake II are ideal for long nights.
- The best multiplayer horror games bring friends into the scares.
- Indie hits like Darkwood and Signalis offer unique seasonal frights.
Little Nightmares III – The big new release for Halloween
Launching on October 10, Little Nightmares III arrives just in time for Halloween. This co-op horror sequel introduces two new protagonists, Low and Alone, each with unique tools. Low uses a bow, while Alone wields a wrench, giving players distinct ways to interact with the environment and puzzles.
The eerie art direction, twisted enemies, and dreamlike settings carry forward what made the series one of the best Halloween video games in recent years. While solo players can still enjoy the story with an AI companion, the co-op mode makes this one of the most ambitious entries yet.
The best survival horror games for the spooky season
Resident Evil 4 remake
Few titles deserve a spot among the best horror games of all time like Resident Evil 4 Remake. Capcom’s overhaul delivers modern visuals, refined controls, and reimagined encounters with iconic foes like the Chainsaw Man. Its balance of tension, action, and exploration makes it perfect for returning fans or newcomers.
With multiple difficulty modes, unlockable weapons, and an atmospheric campaign that still stands tall today, it remains one of the best Halloween games to revisit when the nights draw in, offering a solid 20 hours of gameplay across 16 chapters.
Amnesia: The Bunker
From developer Frictional Games, Amnesia: The Bunker strips horror down to survival basics. You’re trapped in a WWI-era bunker with limited light, scarce resources, and a roaming monster that reacts to sound. Every decision carries weight, from managing fuel for your generator to deciding when to risk opening a locked door. It’s a masterclass in tension-building.
Amnesia: The Bunker’s unpredictable AI and non-linear design make it a standout among the best horror video games released in recent years. The oppressive setting and constant tension prove that less is more when it comes to effective horror.
Story-driven horror for long nights
Alan Wake II
For players seeking narrative depth, Alan Wake II is a strong choice. Remedy’s psychological thriller blends detective gameplay, surreal shifts in reality, and a moody atmosphere that fits the Halloween season perfectly. The game alternates between Alan and FBI agent Saga Anderson, offering two perspectives on a mystery tied to deeply sinister supernatural forces.
Its haunting presentation, strong writing, and cinematic structure make it one of the best Halloween video games for players who want an immersive story rather than jump scares (though there are still plenty of those where it matters). Despite being a fairly recent release, Alan Wake II’s PC system requirements aren’t too taxing; it’s a solid choice for console or PC gamers.
The Medium
Bloober Team’s The Medium explores dual realities, forcing players to solve puzzles across both the physical world and the spirit realm. The split-screen mechanic creates distinctive gameplay moments where one action in one world influences the other.
While it doesn’t rely heavily on combat, its chilling environments, eerie soundtrack by Akira Yamaoka, and heavy narrative themes make it ideal for Halloween nights. Fans of slower-paced, atmospheric experiences will find it ranks among the best horror games for Halloween.
Dead by Daylight
Asymmetrical multiplayer horror doesn’t get more iconic than Dead by Daylight. One player takes on the role of a killer, while four others try to survive by repairing generators and escaping the map. Constant updates keep the game fresh, with killers inspired by both original creations and licensed horror icons.
The tension of being hunted by friends makes this one of the best multiplayer horror games available. Plus, with the Dead by Daylight October 2025 roadmap leak in hand, we know that the future of the title is looking positive.
The Outlast Trials
The Outlast Trials takes the terrifying formula of its predecessors and adds co-op survival. Set in a bleak Cold War laboratory, players endure disturbing trials while trying to maintain their sanity (something I definitely struggled with as I screamed down the mic to my friends). The addition of teammates adds strategy, but the horror never lets up.
Its balance of teamwork and sheer dread secures its place as one of the best Halloween games to play in groups. If you enjoy the Dead by Daylight formula, then The Outlast Trials is a sure-fire winner.
The best indie horror games for Halloween frights
Darkwood
Darkwood is a top-down survival horror game that uses lighting and sound to create dread. Its day-night cycle forces you to scavenge during daylight and survive in your hideout at night. With limited resources and no hand-holding, every decision feels impactful.
Its unique perspective and oppressive tension cement it as one of the best indie horror games for players seeking something different. Its replay value and atmospheric world design make it ideal for short or extended Halloween sessions.
Signalis
Signalis blends classic survival horror design with a haunting sci-fi aesthetic. Players explore derelict facilities, solve puzzles, and manage scarce resources while piecing together a mysterious story. The game’s pixel-art style hides deeply unsettling moments and unforgettable imagery.
This blend of old-school mechanics and modern storytelling makes it one of the best free horror games, if you can snag it on Xbox Game Pass. It’s ideal for those looking for a low-cost but high-quality experience. Fans of Silent Hill or Resident Evil will find plenty to admire here.
INSIDE
From Playdead, INSIDE is a minimalist but deeply unsettling puzzle-platformer. Its haunting environments, oppressive tone, and unexpected twists make it an essential experience. Despite its short runtime, its atmosphere lingers long after finishing.
Its simplicity makes INSIDE one of the best horror games for players short on time but still seeking an impactful Halloween experience. VideoGamer has previously praised its atmosphere and how it influenced later indie horror successes.
FAQs
It depends on your preference. Survival fans might prefer Resident Evil 4 Remake, while story-focused players might enjoy Alan Wake II. For multiplayer scares, try Dead by Daylight or The Outlast Trials.
Some of the best horror games rely on atmosphere, resource management, strong audio design, and a balance of vulnerability and threat.
They create controlled tension and adrenaline. Many players enjoy the thrill of surviving fear in a safe, engaging way.
A horror game uses mechanics and storytelling to evoke fear, dread, or unease. This can be achieved through survival elements, psychological tension, or direct scares.
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