in Gaming Impressions, Gaming Lists, Hidden Horror in Games

The 44 Best VR Horror Games of All Time

Duck Season, image courtesy of Stress Level Zero.

Virtual reality (VR) gaming allows players to experience different worlds like never before. This is immersive gaming at its best. One genre benefiting from the VR buzz is horror. Think about the scariest games you’ve ever played. Now imagine living inside that world. This is the power that VR gaming delivers. VR horror experiences are known to make gamers scream, jump in fear, and even cry. The games I discuss below are a must for any gamer searching for a truly terrifying experience.

Top 44 Scariest VR Games

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

A desolate, abandoned mansion looms in the background, shrouded by bare, twisted tree branches under a gloomy, overcast sky. The mansion's architecture is dilapidated, with cracked pillars and broken windows. In the foreground, a lone figure dressed in dark clothing stands facing the mansion, adding a sense of foreboding and mystery. The title "Resident Evil 7: Biohazard" is prominently displayed in distressed, bold letters.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, image courtesy of Capcom
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: PlayStation VR (PS4), PlayStation VR2 (PS5)

My first experience of Resident Evil 7 Biohazard was the non-VR mode. This function can be toggled for PlayStation VR users. Going into the VR version familiar with Ethan Winters’ story gave me an advantage, but I was still on edge the whole way through. Instead of shooting infected monsters, this game relies on solving puzzles to progress the suspenseful narrative. 

VR users rate Resident Evil 7 Biohazard highly for its jump scares and immersion. “A VR game that will stay with you long after you finish it”, one Reddit user wrote. 

Metacritic user rating 8.1/10

Resident Evil 4 VR

A haunting image of a protagonist's hand pressed against a broken window, looking out at a horde of zombies. The title "Resident Evil 4" is prominently displayed.
Resident Evil 4, image courtesy of Capcom
  • Release Year: 2021 
  • Platforms: Oculus Quest 2, Meta Quest 2

I’ve always found joy in the Resident Evil games but I’ve never felt true fear while playing them. This changed when I was transported to the terrifying world of Resident Evil 4 VR. The story is a faithful recreation of the original Resident Evil 4. I enjoyed the new mechanics including the ability to dodge by leaning and to interact with the environment. 

Reception for Resident Evil 4 VR was positive and it was nominated for several awards including Best VR/AR Game at The Game Awards 2021. 

Metacritic user rating 7.9/10

The Exorcist: Legion VR

A disturbing scene from "The Exorcist: Legion VR, Chapter 2: Idle Hands" showing a restrained man in a padded room, wearing a dirty medical gown and a mask. The title is displayed in bold red and white text at the top and bottom of the image.
The Exorcist: Legion VR, image courtesy of Wolf & Wood Interactive
  • Release Year: 2018
  • Platforms: Oculus Quest, PlayStation VR (PS4), HTC Vive, Windows VR 

Stepping into the world of William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist ticked off one of my dreams. The Exorcist: Legion VR is a paranormal investigation at a remote psychiatric hospital. The graphics and the audio combined made me feel like I was there. There are five chapters with plenty of puzzles to solve. 

Many horror fans praise this game’s visual mastery. There’s mention that graphics took priority over gameplay, especially the inventory mechanics. 

Metacritic user rating 5.9/10

Phasmophobia

Dimly-lit scene with a Ouija board, voodoo doll, and tarot cards arranged on a wooden table, surrounded by a pentagram. The title "Phasmophobia: Cursed Possessions" is displayed prominently.
Phasmophobia: Cursed Possessions, image courtesy of Kinetic Games
  • Release Year: 2023
  • Platforms: Meta Quest, Meta Quest 2, PlayStation VR2 (PS5)

Phasmophobia lets you team up with up to three friends and become ghost hunters. Armed with EMF, spirit boxes, and cameras, the objective is to identify different types of paranormal activity. 

I usually find that playing VR horror games with friends reduces the fear factor, but this wasn’t true in Phasmophobia. The cooperative element elevated the experience and I loved that talking attracted the ghosts.

Metacritic user rating TBD

The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners

A lone survivor stands in the middle of an abandoned, zombie-infested street, holding an axe and a backpack, with the title "The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners" displayed above.
The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners, image courtesy of Skydance Interactive
  • Release Year: 2020
  • Platforms: PlayStation VR (PS4), PlayStation VR2 (PS5), Meta Quest, Meta Quest 2, HTC Vive, Windows PC VR

I enjoy The Walking Dead universe, but share the fanbase fatigue on the TV show front. However, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners was a delightful VR experience. Scavenging for supplies, fighting off walkers, and making moral decisions to get through the game kept me hooked. 

Ratings are largely favorable. Many gamers commend the game for its detail and story-driven style. Some reviewers mention repetitive gameplay and a lack of The Walking Dead IP.   

Metacritic user rating 8.5/10

Until Dawn: Rush of Blood

A terrifying, sinister clown with glowing eyes and a menacing grin emerges from the darkness, framed by the title "Until Dawn: Rush of Blood" in bold, stylized letters.
ntil Dawn: Rush of Blood, image courtesy of Supermassive Games
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PlayStation VR

Supermassive Games has created an excellent VR horror game with Until Dawn: Rush of Blood. I immediately recognized Blackwood Mountain Sanatorium from the original Until Dawn. Being strapped to the rail cart and reliving the horrors of the Blackwood Sanatorium fire had my heart racing. The gameplay involves dodging, shooting, and solving puzzles in an attempt to escape.

Most reviewers praise Until Dawn: Rush of Blood for being one of the only PSVR exclusives worth playing.  

Metacritic user rating 7.9/10

Wraith: The Oblivion – Afterlife

A dark, haunting scene of a dilapidated building with a figure hanging from the ceiling and twisted tree roots creeping into the space. The title "Wraith: The Oblivion - Afterlife" is displayed at the bottom.
Wraith: The Oblivion – Afterlife, image courtesy of Fast Travel Games
  • Release Year: 2021
  • Platforms: Meta Quest, PC VR (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows MR)

I had a great time exploring Wraith: The Oblivion – Afterlife. It’s set within the World of Darkness, which is a shared universe for countless supernatural-themed tabletop and video games. This game sees you die and become a wraith. The goal is to reveal the circumstances of your untimely death. I got to solve puzzles and walk through walls while having the life scared out of me. Do not miss out on this VR title. 

Horror fans are praising this game’s use of tension, realistic movements, and overall ambiance. If you enjoy other horror titles like Blair Witch, Outlast, and Amnesia, you will have a blast with Wraith: The Oblivion – Afterlife.

Metacritic user rating 7.8/10

Half-Life: Alyx

A figure stands amidst rubble and debris in front of a massive, imposing structure. The title "Half-Life: Alyx" is displayed prominently above the figure.
Half-Life: Alyx, image courtesy of Valve Corporation
  • Release Year: 2020
  • Platforms: PC VR

Half-Life: Alyx serves as a sequel to the critically acclaimed Half-Life 2, released in 2004. Set five years before the events of Half-Life 2, we follow the story of Alyx Vance and experience her fight against the Combine (a race of destructive aliens). As a fan of the Half-Life series, I was thrilled to step foot in the universe.

VR fans and skeptics alike are calling Half-Life: Alyx a “masterpiece experience like no other”. Everything from the gameplay to the graphics is being celebrated, so hats off to Valve.

Metacritic user rating 9.2/10

Affected: The Manor

A dark room with framed portraits on the wall, a small table with a Ouija board and a creepy doll, and the title "Affected: The Manor" displayed in large, distressed letters.
Affected: The Manor, image courtesy of Fallen Planet Studios
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation VR, Android, Oculus Quest, Oculus Go, PC VR

Enter the manor affected by paranormal phenomena and ghostly apparitions. Affected: The Manor is one of my favorite horror VR games. There are no puzzles, and nothing to collect; it’s just an effective haunted house walk-through. 

Many Steam users applaud Affected: The Manor for high-quality graphics, jump scares, and value for money. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

The Persistence

A first-person perspective of a character reaching out towards a group of figures standing in a brightly lit corridor of a spaceship. The title "The Persistence" is displayed prominently in the center.
The Persistence, image courtesy of Firesprite Ltd.
  • Release Year: 2020
  • Platforms: PlayStation VR (PS4), PlayStation VR2 (PS5), PC VR (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows MR)

Welcome aboard the S.S. Persistence, an experimental spaceship overrun by mutants. I always find horror VR titles set in space scary simply because of their isolating nature. The devs at Firesprite took this fear and amped it up in The Persistence. Pushing through the terror, I enjoyed the roguelike horror because it means no two playthroughs will be the same. 

Gamers are praising The Persistence for its addictive gameplay, compelling story, and incredible graphics. 

Metacritic user rating 8.2/10

Alien: Isolation MotherVR Mod

A close-up of a woman's face inside a space helmet, with a greenish glow reflecting on the visor. The title "Alien: Isolation" and "VR Mod" are displayed on the left side of the image.
Alien: Isolation VR Mod, image courtesy of Creative Assembly
  • Release Date: 2020
  • Platforms: PC VR

I love PC gaming because it brings flexibility to games, like the fan made Alien: Isolation MothrVR Mod. This mod enables Alien: Isolation to be played on Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows MR Headsets. The use of movement to navigate the Alien universe adds an incredible layer of immersion. 

Install the MothrVR Mod with these steps:

  1. Download the MothrVR Mod from Github. 
  2. Extract the files to your Alien: Isolation directory. 
  3. Launch the game. 

Metacritic user rating N/A

Wilson’s Heart

A black-and-white collage featuring four characters, each with a distressed or fearful expression, and the title "Wilson's Heart" displayed prominently in the center in bold, distressed letters.
Wilson’s Heart, image courtesy of Twisted Pixel Games
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: PC

Twisted Pixel Games did an excellent job with the horror adventure game Wilson’s Heart. Playing as Robert Wilson, we wake up in an abandoned hospital wearing nothing but a gown. I was able to fully experience the fear, dread, and anxiety of waking up alone. Gameplay involves environmental interaction and puzzles, which help progress the narrative. 

This video game has been well-received by fans, with many mentioning great graphics, production value, and atmosphere. Common gripes with the game include clumsy mechanics. 

Metacritic user rating 7.8/10

A Chair In A Room: Greenwater

A simple, eerie image of a metallic chair casting a shadow on the floor. The title "A Chair in a Room: Greenwater" is displayed prominently in white text against a black background.
A Chair in a Room: Greenwater, image courtesy of Wolf & Wood Interactive
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC

A Chair In A Room: Greenwater is a psychological horror game set in the Deep South of the United States. We become a paranormal investigator sent to check out disturbing events at a remote psychiatric hospital. Most of the gameplay is environmental interaction and atmospheric storytelling. 

Fans of this game are praising its use of VR playspace, atmospheric music, and spatial audio. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Lies Beneath

A stylized, dark comic book-like scene featuring a woman in a red dress with glowing red eyes, flanked by monstrous creatures. The title "Lies Beneath" is displayed in the bottom right corner.
Lies Beneath, image courtesy of Drifter Entertainment
  • Release Year: 2020
  • Platforms: PC, Meta Quest

I felt uneasy, tense, and stressed out playing Lies Beneath, but it kept me plugged in for hours. Set in Slumber, Alaska, this game is a spooky first-person horror with mid-level puzzles and combat. Aside from the compelling story, the best aspect of Lies Beneath is the cel-shaded art and classic horror tropes. 

Player reviews note that this game is exactly what fans of games with jump scares need, even if the gameplay can sometimes be stressful.

Metacritic user rating TBD

Transference

A silhouetted figure walks towards a bright, glowing doorway with colorful, abstract lines extending from the top. The title "Transference: The Walter Test Case" is displayed above the doorway.
Transference: The Walter Test Case, image courtesy of SpectreVision and Ubisoft
  • Release Year: 2018
  • Platforms: PlayStation VR, Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows VR

Transference is a psychological horror game developed by SpectreVision. The game takes place in a fractured dream-like house, which is the mind of a family. Our job is to collect evidence and learn how to repair their lives. I had a lot of fun with this game. The graphics were great, the puzzles were well-balanced, and the dialogue was put together well. 

Fan reviews of the VR version of Transference are positive. However, people have had negative experiences with the non-VR version. This is reflected in the low average user rating. 

Metacritic user rating 6.3/10

Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul

A terrified woman screams as dark, shadowy tendrils wrap around her face. The title "Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul" is displayed in red and white text at the top.
Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul, image courtesy of VRWERX
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: Meta Quest, PlayStation VR, Microsoft Windows

Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul is set within the same universe as the Paranormal Activity films. The story is what you’d expect. You start outside a mysterious-looking house with a flashlight – you soon discover there’s something sinister going on inside. The aim of the game is to end the torment by solving small puzzles, finding items, and exploring the house. 

I have a love-hate relationship with games based on movies, but this game surprised me. I was gripped by the graphics, the unsettling atmosphere, and the story.  

Reviews for this game are mixed, but the overall consensus is that the atmosphere is great but the controls could use some work. 

Metacritic user rating 6.5

Killing Floor Incursion

Two monstrous, grotesque creatures stand in front of a dark, eerie building. One is a massive, muscular figure with glowing, molten chest wounds, and the other is a smaller, bloodied humanoid. The title "Killing Floor: Incursion" is displayed in bold, distressed letters at the top right.
Killing Floor: Incursion, image courtesy of Tripwire Interactive
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: PlayStation VR, Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows VR

Killing Floor Incursion is set in the same world as the Killing Floor series, where players are tasked with eliminating hordes of Zeds (mutated creatures). My time exploring this entry was fun. There were plenty of melee weapons, the puzzles were easy enough, and the maps were engaging. However, I was let down because the Zeds didn’t fill me with enough dread. 

The noise coming from the reviews is mixed. Some players can’t recommend the game enough. Others reported endless bugs and clunky controls. From what I can see, PSVR players face the most issues. 

Metacritic user rating 5.4/10

The Forest

A dense, lush forest scene with large, ancient trees and tangled roots, with the title "The Forest" displayed in bold yellow letters. Below the title is a skull made of twisted roots and vines.
The Forest, image courtesy of Endnight Games
  • Release Date: 2018
  • Platforms: PC VR

Survival horror games are enhanced by the VR environment, so I was excited to get my hands on The Forest. Being stranded in a forest full of cannibalistic mutants is a great setting for horror. This game is open-world. The gameplay involves scavenging, completing tasks, and the occasional fight with the mutants. My overall experience was positive, but the graphics could use a serious update. 

Ratings for The Forest VR version slide more into the negative. The general consensus is more attention is needed from the developers. However, the non-VR version has received highly positive reviews. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Dreadhalls

A spooky image of a Medusa-like stone face with glowing eyes, set against a dark, smoky background. The title "Dreadhalls" is displayed in bold, red, distressed letters at the top.
Dreadhalls, image courtesy of White Door Games
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: Oculus Rift (DK1, DK2), HTC Vive, Windows VR

Dreadhalls is set in a castle full of labyrinth-like corridors. I felt claustrophobic and terrified, which is a sign of a superb horror game. There isn’t much to the gameplay because it’s mostly exploration. The environment is enhanced by its use of ambient sounds, and there are plenty of sudden scares. 

The reviews for this game are largely positive. There’s praise given to the tense environment and stealth gameplay. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Blair Witch

A silhouetted figure and a dog stand in the middle of a dark, foreboding forest with a blood-red sky. The title "Blair Witch VR Edition" is displayed at the top in bold, distressed letters.
Blair Witch VR Edition, image courtesy of Bloober Team
  • Release Year: 2021
  • Platforms: PlayStation 4, Oculus Rift

Having played the non-VR version, the Blair Witch VR game was on my radar. I played it at the first opportunity and I wasn’t disappointed. Becoming Ellis Lynch and exploring Black Hill Forest was fantastic. I felt more immersed in this game than any other because of the dog Bullet. He added to the VR experience, which may have felt subpar without. 

There’s a lot of chatter about the Blair Witch VR game. A lot of reviews claim that the VR version is much better than the original. 

Metacritic user rating 7.3/10

Torn

A surreal image of a woman's profile with an old, decaying mansion emerging from her head. The title "Torn" is displayed at the top in bold, distressed letters.
Torn, image courtesy of Aspyr
  • Release Year: 2018
  • Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, HTC Vive

Torn is a single-player adventure designed for VR, which is why it’s better than some of the converted titles I’ve discussed so far. Inspired by the TV shows Black Mirror and The Twilight Zone, the narrative was enough to keep me hooked. There were a lot of puzzles to complete, which did get a little repetitive. However, the abandoned mansion and its grounds are graphically beautiful.

Player reviews make it clear that more horror elements are needed, but the game is still a decent psychological horror. 

Metacritic user review TBD

Narcosis

A dark, underwater scene with a deep-sea diver's helmet glowing faintly. The title "Narcosis" is displayed above the helmet in a hazy font.
Narcosis, image courtesy of Honor Code, Inc.
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

Narcosis is set deep in the Pacific Ocean. After surviving a submarine disaster, industrial worker Mark Thompson must do everything in their power before losing their mind – or drowning. While attempting to escape his doom, Narcosis begins to take effect, which causes hallucinations. When I played this game I felt like I was losing my mind. This is because Mark’s inner monologue adds layers to the immersion. 

VR fans overlook some of the gameplay issues in this game because of the excellent storytelling, especially the narrative twist at the end. 

Metacritic user rating 7.2/10

Arizona Sunshine

A close-up of a terrifying zombie with glowing eyes and decayed skin, set against a desert backdrop. The title "Arizona Sunshine" is displayed in bold, distressed letters to the right.
Arizona Sunshine, image courtesy of Vertigo Games
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4

Horror fans fantasize about being caught up in a zombie apocalypse. Arizona Sunshine lets you do this from the safety of your living room. Playing cooperatively as part of a survivor group, you must fight for your life against hordes of undead.

I had fun with this VR zombie shooter. There are plenty of weapons, the scenery is stunning, and the zombies are varied. Some players don’t share these opinions, but VR games will never please everyone. 

Metacritic user rating 6.4/10

Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted

A group of animatronic characters with glowing eyes, including a bear, fox, and chicken, standing in a dark environment. The title "Five Nights at Freddy's VR: Help Wanted" is displayed in bold letters.
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted, image courtesy of Steel Wool Studios
  • Release Year: 2019
  • Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Xbox One

Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted is a collection of original and classic mini-games. I keep returning to Five Nights at Freddy’s because of how captivating the world is. As with other entries in the series, the aim of Five Nights at Freddy’s VR is to survive for five nights at the famed Fazbears Pizzeria. The game can be played in the standard format, but it’s much more horrifying with a VR headset.

Fans of the Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise claim Help Wanted is the strongest entry so far. I have to say I agree. 

Metacritic user rating 8.1/10

Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs

A dark, atmospheric scene featuring a bloodied, intricately designed pig mask lying on a wooden floor. The title "Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs" is displayed in ornate, white letters at the top.
Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs, image courtesy of The Chinese Room
  • Release Date: 2013
  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC

I played Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs when it was first released. Oscar Mandus’ story was brilliant, the environment was engaging, and I felt uneasy throughout. When I discovered VorpX could convert the original game into VR, I jumped at the chance to try it out. Walking in the footsteps of Mandus took the game to a whole different level. 

Gamers feel as though Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs doesn’t live up to the first game but still delivers a poetic work of art. However, not many people are discussing the VR version because it’s not an official release. 

Metacritic user rating 6/10

The Brookhaven Experiment

A dark, ominous forest scene with bare trees and a cloudy sky. The title "The Brookhaven Experiment" is displayed in bold, distressed letters with a red circle around the word "Brookhaven."
The Brookhaven Experiment, image courtesy of Phosphor Games
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation

The Brookhaven Experiment is another zombie-shooter VR game. We play in a post-apocalyptic world and the aim is to fight hordes of zombies. The game felt intense at times but I would have liked more variation in the scenery and monsters. However, I can’t fault the visual aspects of the game. 

There’s a mixed bag of reviews for the game. Many gamers praise the controls and the immersive aspect. Others echo my issues about aspects of the game feeling repetitive. 

Metacritic user rating 5.7/10

Don’t Knock Twice

Dark wooden door with an ornate, brass door knocker shaped like a mythical creature. The title "Don't Knock Twice" is displayed above the door in white, distressed letters.
Don’t Knock Twice, image courtesy of Wales Interactive
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

Don’t Knock Twice is inspired by a British urban legend about a witch who haunts anyone who knocks on her door twice. We play as Jess, a mother who enters an abandoned house in search of her missing daughter Chloe. Much of the gameplay is exploration and puzzles, which can often feel like filler. I felt satisfied with the overall story, which involves a malevolent entity and plenty of emotion. 

Many of the reviews talk about clunky controls letting the game down. If you can look past this subjective issue, Don’t Knock Twice has been commended for its creepy atmosphere and story. 

Metacritic user rating 5.9/10

DreadEye VR

A disturbing image of a figure sitting with hands covering their head, while shadowy, ghostly hands reach towards them. The title "DreadEye" is displayed in bold, white letters against a red background.
DreadEye VR, image courtesy of Digital Happiness
  • Release Year: 2021
  • Platforms: PCVR

DeadEye VR is one of the more unique horror games in the VR library. Set in a haunted rural Indonesia, we play as an Indonesian shaman. The landscape is impressive and the monsters are some of the best I’ve seen in horror VR games.

Most terrifying VR experience

VR horror game enthusiasts are calling this game the “most terrifying VR experience”. Some users note a few loading issues. If you enjoy Hellraiser, Silent Hill, and The Walking Dead, don’t miss out on one of the best VR titles. 

Metacritic user ratings TBD

Organ Quarter

A haunting image of a person with a cracked face wearing a surgical mask, set against a dark, abstract background. The title "Organ Quarter" is prominently displayed across the mask.
Organ Quarter, image courtesy of Outer Brain Studios
  • Release Year: 2017, 2023
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, PC

When it comes to choosing a survival horror VR game, Organ Quarter is my top pick. Exploring a nightmarish, abandoned, and surreal urban landscape, this game knows how to leave you feeling terrified. The gameplay involves plenty of puzzles, resource management, and gun combat. However, the strongest mechanic is the map, a handheld sheet with a marker to check off different areas. 

Professional critics and gamers are dubbing Organ Quarter “Silent Hill for VR”. If that doesn’t pique your interest, I don’t know what will. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Emily Wants To Play VR

A menacing clown with a wide grin and top hat stares directly at the viewer in a dimly lit room. The game menu options are displayed on the left side of the screen, with the title "Emily Wants to Play" in large, bold letters.
Emily Wants to Play VR, image courtesy of SKH Apps
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Oculus Rift

Emily Wants to Play VR horror game takes us into another haunted house, the most common classic horror trope in the video game world. The haunted house may be overdone, but I’ll always try out the latest VR titles in this setting. The aim of this game is to find keycards and survive until 7 am, but watch out for Emily and her friends. 

There’s a huge positive buzz around this game. Gamers are applauding indie developer Shawn Hitchcock for creating a masterpiece. One reviewer states that Emily Wants To Play VR is like “Amnesia meets P.T”. 

Metacritic user rating 6.7/10

The Bellows

A grand, eerie pipe organ in a dimly lit room with the text "The Bellows: A VR Horror Experience" at the bottom.
The Bellows, image courtesy of Castle Steps
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4

As a horror movie enthusiast, I found The Bellows captivating because it’s like an interactive movie. The game takes you through a labyrinth-like haunted house. Lamps fall over, objects float, and lights shatter as a horrifying figure stalks your movements. Even though this game left my heart racing, I appreciated the simplicity of the game. 

This game received very mixed reviews upon initial release. YouTuber Spammals claims the developers confirmed rushing the release to launch it before Halloween. Luckily, BOT Jungle Productions has spent time turning it into a respectable title. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Syndrome VR

A person in a futuristic suit holding a weapon, facing two grotesque humanoid creatures in a dark, metallic hallway.
Syndrome, image courtesy of Camel 101
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: PC

Syndrome VR takes us to the expanse of space. Set inside a doomed Novacore fleet starship, we wake up from cryo-sleep to find the ship overrun by hostile creatures. Exploring the corridors of the eerie ship filled me with unease, but the jump scares felt overdone. However, I like the fact there’s not enough ammo to take all of the monsters out, which adds to the realism and horrifying nature of the situation. 

Indie horror developers love taking us to space, or at least that’s one user’s take. The consensus is that Syndrome VR is a solid game that lacks a little in originality. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

The Inpatient

A large syringe filled with red liquid in front of a spooky sanatorium building, with the text "The Inpatient" overlaid.
The Inpatient, image courtesy of Supermassive Games
  • Release Year: 2018
  • Platforms: PlayStation VR

I think Until Dawn is one of the best horror titles, so I was excited to play The Inpatient, set in Blackwood Sanatorium 60 years before the events of the original game. We wake up in the psychiatric hospital with amnesia and have to uncover the secrets. The narrative relies on suspense, and any scares are well-placed. 

The general fan opinion is that The Inpatient delivers on the fear but fails to bring anything new to the landscape. 

Metacritic user rating 6/10

Face Your Fears

A spooky carnival entrance with a sign that reads "Face Your Fears House of Terrors" featuring a menacing face and blood splatters.
Face Your Fears, image courtesy of Turtle Rock Studios
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PC, Gear VR, Oculus Rift

Face Your Fears is designed to leave you feeling anxious and scared. The game is packed with different scenarios based on phobias. Think heights, snakes, ghosts, and any other fear thought up by Turtle Rock Studios. I found this game more fun than scary, but the scenarios made for an entertaining title. 

Reviews about the fear factor in this game are subjective, but most users agree that each scenario is graphically pleasing. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Home Sweet Home VR

A bloodied woman with dark, stringy hair stands in a dimly lit hallway with the words "Home Sweet Home" written in blood-red text.
Home Sweet Home, image courtesy of Yggdrazil Group
  • Release Year: 2018
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Home Sweet Home VR is set in a haunted house in Bangkok, Thailand. When I’ve played a lot of haunted house VR games I experience fatigue, but Home Sweet Home is a breath of fresh air. I loved the faithful recreation of Thai mythology and the real feeling of dread as I walked through the maze-like house. 

Opinions across review platforms praise the game for its use of Thai folklore because it offers a unique perspective. However, some users feel that gameplay becomes “boring after the first 90 minutes”. 

Metacritic user rating 6.6/10

Monstrum

A person in a dark, industrial environment facing a glowing, monstrous creature with multiple glowing eyes and mouths.
Monstrum, image courtesy of Team Junkfish
  • Release Year: 2015
  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Oculus Rift, FoveVR

Monstrum takes place on an abandoned ship that’s procedurally generated each time. This means no two playthroughs will ever be the same. The goal is to escape the ship and avoid the horrors lurking within. There’s no combat. This game relies on stealth and wit, which is a good change of pace. 

A lot of reviewers are comparing Monstrum’s lack of quality graphics to games like Outlast and Amnesia. I’d like to point out that this game is developed by Junkfish, indie devs without the budget. Looking past this, players praise the game for its eerie setting and music. 

Metacritic user rating 6.4/10

Affected: The Carnival

A dimly lit elevator with the text "AFFECTED: THE HORROR EXPERIENCE" above it. Beside the elevator are buttons labeled "THE MANOR," "THE HOSPITAL," and "THE CARNIVAL." There is also a "Restricted Area: Authorized Personnel Only" sign on the wall.
Affected: The Horror Experience, image courtesy of Fallen Planet Studios
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows Mixed Reality

Affective: The Carnival takes place at an abandoned carnival haunted by the ghosts of past visitors. I enjoyed exploring the carnival and investigating the mysterious happenings. However, I did feel there were too many open spaces and the jump scares felt a little random. 

There isn’t much in the way of written reviews, but YouTuber jacksepticeye released a short gameplay video called “MY POOR HEART”. 

Metacritic user rating = TBD

The Manor VR

A terrifying young girl with dark hair and a hollow expression standing in front of a creepy manor, with the text "Affected The Manor Complete Edition."
Affected: The Manor Complete Edition, image courtesy of Fallen Planet Studios
  • Release Year: 2018
  • Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC

The Manor VR is the first part of the Affected trilogy discussed above, which initially launched on Gear VR. The original games received a lot of attention on YouTube, with over 200M people looking to experience a scare. In 2018, the game was remastered and released for PSVR and Oculus Rift. 

I played this game when it was first released in 2016, so a remaster was a pleasant surprise. While I love the horror elements of the game, it lacks gameplay because it’s a simple walk-through.

Metacritic user rating TBD

The Solus Project

A creepy carnival entrance with various spooky decorations and the text "Affected: The Carnival."
Affected: The Carnival, image courtesy of Fallen Planet Studios
  • Release Year: 2016
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

The Solus Project’s primary focus is exploration, but it has elements of survival. Set on a mysterious alien planet, it’s our job to unlock the secrets and save the human race from extinction. In true VR style, there are plenty of puzzles to solve and an expansive landscape to explore. I found the gameplay didn’t bring anything new to the scene, but I enjoyed the ability to walk up walls and across ceilings using the anti-gravity mechanics.

Metacritic user rating 6.7/10

Duck Season

A mascot-like dog holding a duck and giving a thumbs-up, standing near a truck in a rural landscape during sunset.
Duck Season, image courtesy of Stress Level Zero
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation VR, Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows Mixed Reality

Duck Season is an interesting game set in a retro 1980s living room. This isn’t a traditional horror game, but there are subtle horror aspects. We play as a young boy playing a duck hunting game on a CRT television. However, as the story progresses, strange events cause us to question the reality of our surroundings. 

This game has a lot of positive reviews. People claim that it’s more than a mere throwback – it’s a “love letter to an entire era of pop culture”. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Don’t Let Go

A close-up of a menacing black snake with its tongue flicking out against a red background, with the text "Don't Let Go!"
Don’t Let Go!, image courtesy of Skydome Studios
  • Release Year: 2013, 2016
  • Platforms: PC

Don’t Let Go is a fun indie game by Skydome Studios. This game reminded me of those “Try not to laugh” videos on TikTok. The gameplay is simple. You are sat on a chair with your hands on a keyboard. The game will do everything in its power to scare you into letting go. 

User reviews for Don’t Let Go are scarce because it was a small indie VR game launched in 2013. However, if you head over to YouTube, you will find plenty of content telling you what it’s all about. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Layers of Fear VR​

A lone astronaut standing on an alien landscape with a large, geometric spaceship in the background under a hazy, pinkish sky, with the text "The Solus Project."
The Solus Project, image courtesy of Grip Digital
  • Released Year: 2021
  • Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC

I can’t get enough of Layers of Fear VR. This game is set within a huge Victorian mansion, and we are a painter trying to complete a masterpiece. Along the way, there’s every chance we’ll lose our minds. The gameplay is largely exploration and environmental interaction. 

The original game received high praise. Reviews for Layers of Fear VR suggest gamers are having a great time with the VR release. 

Metacritic user rating TBD

Conclusion

The horror VR gaming world is constantly evolving. You’ll find everything from psychological thrillers like Layers of Fear to action-packed shooters like Killing Floor: Incursion. Every horror enthusiast will find an experience to remember. 

If you’re new to VR horror, start with one of the games I’ve mentioned above. These games are all well-received and offer a unique blend of atmosphere, terror, and gameplay. So, clear a space, put on your VR headset, and prepare to scream in fear. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are virtual reality horror games scarier?

Virtual reality horror games are scarier because the technology fools our minds into thinking we’re in the virtual world. This doesn’t mean everyone will find them scarier, but VR horror games have the potential to truly terrify. 

How scary are virtual reality games?

Fear is subjective, so you’ll have to experience some of the titles mentioned above to answer this question. However, I find some horror VR games much scarier than traditional video games.

Is playing VR games alone terrifying?

VR games lock our senses from the real world, which is why some people find these games so terrifying. You can be in a room with friends or on your own, and your experience will be similar. Being alone doesn’t make them more terrifying, but you may find comfort in knowing someone is there.

What are the best VR horror games for PSVR?

The best VR games for PSVR include:

  • Transference
  • Resident Evil 7
  • Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul

What are the best VR horror games for Oculus Quest?

The best VR Horror games for Oculus Quest include

  • Layers of Fear
  • Wraith: The Oblivion – Afterlife
  • Lies Beneath

What are the best VR horror games for PC VR?

Some of the best PC VR titles include:

  • Dreadhalls
  • Phasmaphobia
  • Alien: Isolation

What are the best VR horror games for Oculus Rift?

The best Oculus Rift VR horror experiences include:

  • Arizona Sunshine
  • Affected: The Manor
  • Cosmodread

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Written by Horror Obsessive

This article was written either by a Guest Author or by an assortment of Horror Obsessive staff.

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