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Survival Horror is one of the most nebulous gaming genres. Traditionally defined by limited resources, oppressive tensions and the struggle to survive against dire odds, the genre has evolved far beyond its roots. Modern Survival Horror often flows into psychological thrillers, sci-fi adventures and even open world exploration. What all this brings together is a constant sense of fear and vulnerability, where victory seems hard-earned and fleeting. From cinematic blockbusters to minimalist indie games, survival horror has proven to be one of the most exciting corners of the gaming industry.
Some of the best survival horror games to date—Alan Wake 2, Resident Evil 4, and Alien: Isolation to name a few—show just how deep the genre is. Each offers an incredible experience, from the psychological decline of the characters to the chaos driven by the creatures. Whether you prefer a thick plot or intense suspense in the dark, there's something here to haunt everyone's dreams.
We've rounded up some of the most entertaining and heart-pounding survival horror games you can play this Halloween season. If you're more interested in just certain elements of these games, be sure to check out our selection best horror games and the best survival games.