Horror games have changed the formula within their genre in the past couple of years. Gone are the old action games with horror elements added in.
Now, we see horror games focusing more on the core element of horror rather than just action.
Nowadays, horror games craft fear, challenging players’ comfort zones and pushing psychological boundaries. But what makes them so effective? Let’s explore the and the unknown and find out.
The Fear of the Unknown
One of the things the human brain does is predict potential threats. Horror games exploit this by creating unpredictable environments.
This unpredictability fosters an expectation of fear – as if you know something is off but don’t know what it is.
Sensory Manipulation
The sound design in horror games is about more than just eerie music or sudden loud sounds.
The subtle crunching of leaves or the ghostly whisper of the air can heighten tension, bringing up childhood fears or making the player’s imagination their worst enemy.
Darkness and restricted areas also force players to rely more on their imagination. Every grotesque shadow and nebulous fog can transform the mundane into vivid nightmares.
Play on Evolutionary Fears
Horror games use primal fears—lack of resources, isolation, and uneasiness in the air—to elicit an intrinsic terror. These elements trigger our adrenaline, bringing an ever-present sense of danger to the surface.
A lack of security or information makes players feel vulnerable and less in control, amplifying fear through a sense of helplessness.
Psychological Immersion
A written narrative can make a story more personal, increasing emotional investment and, for horror, fear. Complex characters and relatable backstories make the threats feel real and terrifying.
Combining these elements with the illusion of choice can lead to intense psychological pressure. Making decisions with visible consequences can be terrifying, mainly when those decisions affect survival.
The Social Dynamic of Fear
It’s no secret that people learn from one another, and multiplayer horror games leverage the human tendency for shared emotions—like emotional contagion.
Witnessing another player’s fear can amplify one’s fear, creating an infectious loop of terror.
Closing Thoughts
Horror games tap into our deepest fears and exploit them in interactive ways. This design enhances our appreciation of the genre and provides a more profound, thrilling gaming experience.
By delving into the psychology of fear, we gain insights into this dance of fear, which is a testament to the complex workings of the human mind.
So, what do you think of the psychology of fear in horror games? Share your thoughts or what scares you down below.
Nero is a writer and lore researcher known for reviewing games on Steam. With years of experience playing horror games, uncovering hidden narrative patterns across indie and AAA titles, and publishing museum catalogs on ancient objects, he blends commentary with psychological horror theory. When he’s not unraveling storylines, he’s enjoying rock music, drawing, working in analytics or obviously playing video games. Check out his latest post to explore the furtive patterns hidden in game lore.