Horror games have a unique way of drawing players into their terrifying worlds. They make you feel every decision, adding depth and intensity to the experience. Over the years, choice-based horror games have become popular, offering players a blend of engaging stories and chilling gameplay. These games not only provide scares but also challenge players with critical decisions that can alter the course of the game.
Here are our top picks for choice-based horror games that every fan of the genre should check out.
1.) Vampyr (2018) – PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Vampyr takes place in post-World War I London and follows Dr. Johnathan Reid, a newly turned vampire. Players must balance his thirst for blood with his duty to save lives as a doctor. This duality creates compelling moral choices throughout the game.
The decisions players make affect the story’s outcome and the fates of various characters. As Johnathan navigates London’s dark, atmospheric streets, his choices determine whether he becomes a savior or a monster.
2.) Call of Cthulhu (2018) – PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Call of Cthulhu immerses players in a Lovecraftian nightmare. You play as Edward Pierce, a private investigator who explores the mysterious death of the Hawkins family. As Pierce delves deeper, he encounters cults, nightmarish creatures, and sanity-testing revelations.
Player choices impact Pierce’s mental state and the game’s outcome. Dialogues, exploration, and decision-making shape the narrative, leading to multiple possible endings.
3.) Until Dawn (2015) – PS4, PS5, PC
Until Dawn is a uniquely structured horror title by Supermassive Games that puts players in a “cabin in the woods” scenario where their choices determine the fate of eight friends. Every decision, from seemingly minor actions to major plot points, influences who survives the night. The game’s branching narrative ensures multiple playthroughs offer unique experiences.
The cast, including recognizable actors, delivers a cinematic feel. The immersive storytelling and tense atmosphere make Until Dawn a must-play for horror fans seeking a truly interactive experience.
4.) Silent Hill (1999) – PS1, PS3, PSP, PS Vita
In the original, groundbreaking Silent Hill, players control Harry Mason as he searches for his missing daughter in the fog-covered town of Silent Hill. The game’s atmosphere, filled with disturbing creatures and eerie locations, creates a sense of dread.
The choices players make throughout the game can lead to multiple endings. These choices include how players interact with characters and which paths they take. The game’s story is deeply affected by player decisions, making each playthrough unique.
5.) Telltale’s The Walking Dead (2012) – Android, iOS, PS3, PS4, PS Vita, Switch, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC
Telltale’s The Walking Dead series redefined narrative-driven horror games. The first season follows Lee Everett, a man trying to protect a young girl named Clementine during a zombie apocalypse. Players must make tough decisions that affect the storyline and relationships between characters.
As the series progresses, Clementine becomes the protagonist. The choices made throughout the series carry significant weight, leading to different endings.
6.) Resident Evil HD Remaster (2015) – PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Resident Evil HD Remaster revisits the classic survival horror game with updated graphics and controls. Players navigate the eerie Spencer Mansion, solving puzzles and battling undead creatures. Resource management, including limited ammo and health items, is crucial.
Choices players make can affect the story’s outcome and character fates. Whether saving certain characters or deciding how to tackle enemies, every decision impacts survival. Resident Evil HD Remaster combines nostalgia with modern improvements.
7.) The Dark Pictures Anthology (2019) – PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, PC
The Dark Pictures Anthology is a series of standalone horror games by Supermassive Games. Each entry offers a unique story where player choices shape the outcome. The series includes titles like Man of Medan, Little Hope, and House of Ashes.
In these games, players guide a group of characters through terrifying scenarios. Quick reaction times and keen decision-making are crucial for survival. The anthology’s engaging narratives and chilling atmospheres ensure that every choice matters.
8.) Sons of the Forest (2024) – PC
Sons of the Forest is the sequel to the popular survival horror game The Forest. Players take on the role of journalist Jack Holt, who becomes stranded on a mysterious island after his helicopter is shot down. The game challenges players to survive while uncovering the island’s dark secrets.
The game offers multiple endings based on the choices players make. You can team up with a fellow survivor, Kelvin, and decide whether to leave the island or stay.
9.) Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma (2016) – PS4, PS Vita, Xbox One, PC, 3DS
Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma combines visual novel storytelling with intense puzzles and decision-making. Players find themselves trapped in a deadly game, where each choice can mean life or death for the characters. The game’s narrative unfolds through multiple timelines, influenced by player decisions.
Every decision affects the story’s outcome, leading to various endings. The game’s complex plot and character development keep players engaged, ensuring that each choice feels significant.
10.) Darkwood (2017) – PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Darkwood offers a unique top-down survival horror experience. Players must navigate a mysterious, ever-changing forest filled with terrifying creatures and eerie events. The game emphasizes resource management and careful decision-making.
Every choice impacts the narrative and gameplay, from scavenging supplies to interacting with NPCs. The game’s atmospheric tension and reactive storyline make each playthrough unique.
These ten choice-based horror games provide thrilling experiences where every choice matters. Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know! Dive in and see how your choices shape the story and your fate.
