There’s nothing quite like huddling together in the dark, controllers clutched in sweaty palms, as a grotesque monster bursts from the shadows on screen. Multiplayer horror games take the thrills of the genre and amplify them tenfold, turning your friends into a chorus of shrieks and nervous laughter.
So grab your bravest buddies, dim the lights, and prepare to face your fears together. Here are some of the best horror games to turn your next game night into a scream-fest:
Cooperative Chaos
These games require teamwork, communication, and a whole lot of trust – which can quickly evaporate when the jump scares start flying.
- Phasmophobia: Become paranormal investigators and hunt down ghosts in abandoned houses, asylums, and schools. Just don’t get possessed by the spirits yourselves!
- Why it’s terrifying: The immersive sound design, realistic ghost hunting mechanics, and unpredictable nature of the ghosts will have you questioning every creak and groan.
- Left 4 Dead 2: Nothing strengthens a friendship like surviving a zombie apocalypse together. Fight through hordes of undead, from the lumbering Boomer to the screaming Witch, in this fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping classic.
- Why it’s terrifying: The sheer number of zombies rushing at you can be overwhelming, and special infected like the Tank and Hunter will have you jumping out of your skin.
- GTFO: This hardcore cooperative shooter pits you and your friends against nightmarish creatures in a claustrophobic underground complex. Prepare for intense firefights, limited resources, and nail-biting stealth gameplay.
- Why it’s terrifying: The oppressive atmosphere, unforgiving difficulty, and terrifying enemy designs make GTFO a true test of courage and teamwork.
Asymmetrical Scares
In these games, one player takes on the role of the monster, while others try to survive. Prepare for a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse full of suspense and strategy.
- Dead by Daylight: This popular asymmetrical horror game lets you play as iconic slasher villains like Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, and Pyramid Head, or as a desperate survivor trying to outsmart and escape them.
- Why it’s terrifying: The constant fear of being stalked by an unstoppable killer, the heart-pounding chase sequences, and the brutal kills will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- Friday the 13th: The Game: Relive the classic slasher film as either Jason Voorhees or one of the unlucky camp counselors. Will you survive the night, or become another victim of the hockey-masked killer?
- Why it’s terrifying: The game captures the tension and dread of the movies perfectly, with Jason’s relentless pursuit and the counselors’ desperate struggle for survival.
- Evil Dead: The Game: Join Ash Williams and his crew in this asymmetrical horror game based on the cult classic film franchise. Play as a survivor fighting off Deadites, or become the Kandarian Demon and unleash your demonic wrath.
- Why it’s terrifying: The game is filled with gruesome visuals, intense combat, and iconic characters from the Evil Dead universe, making it a must-play for fans of the franchise.
Bonus Tip: Enhance the Fear Factor
Want to make your horror game night even more immersive? Try these tips:
- Turn off the lights: Plunge yourselves into darkness, leaving only the glow of the screen.
- Use headphones: Immerse yourselves in the game’s chilling soundtrack and terrifying sound effects.
- Don’t be afraid to scream: Let out those primal fears – it’s all part of the fun!
So gather your friends, brace yourselves for some spine-chilling scares, and remember, the best way to survive a horror game is together! What are your favorite horror games to play with friends? Share your recommendations in the comments below!