As a graphic designer, I have always been drawn to the eerie, unsettling visuals that make up the world of horror games. There's something about the combination of art and gameplay that makes for an immersive and truly terrifying experience. 2017 was a standout year for horror games, with many developers pushing the boundaries of what we expect from the genre. From psychological horror to survival horror, there was no shortage of games that left players feeling on edge. Here are my top picks for the best horror games of 2017.
Before diving into the specifics of each game, it's worth noting the impact that horror games can have on players. While some may dismiss them as simply entertainment, horror games can be a powerful tool for exploring our deepest fears and anxieties. They allow us to confront the unknown, face our own mortality, and process difficult emotions in a safe and controlled environment. As such, horror games can be a valuable form of self-reflection and personal growth. With that said, let's take a closer look at some of the best horror games of 2017.
The Evil Within 2: A Deep Dive into Madness
The Evil Within 2 is a psychological horror game that takes players on a journey through the mind of troubled detective Sebastian Castellanos. Set in the fictional town of Union, the game blurs the lines between reality and hallucination, leaving players questioning what is real and what is not. The game's visuals are a standout feature, with distorted landscapes, twisted creatures, and a general sense of unease at every turn. But it's the game's story that truly sets it apart.
A Story of Loss and Redemption
The Evil Within 2 is a game about loss and redemption. Sebastian is searching for his daughter, who he thought was dead, and in doing so, must navigate a world that is constantly shifting and changing. The game explores themes of grief, guilt, and regret, asking players to confront their own emotions as they progress through the game. The story is well-written and expertly paced, with plenty of twists and turns to keep players engaged.
Survival Horror at its Finest
In addition to its gripping story, The Evil Within 2 also delivers on the gameplay front. The game is a true survival horror experience, with limited resources and a constant sense of danger. The game's stealth mechanics are particularly well-done, allowing players to sneak past enemies or take them out from behind. The game also features a crafting system, which allows players to create new items and weapons from the resources they collect. Overall, The Evil Within 2 is a must-play for fans of psychological horror and survival horror alike.
Resident Evil 7: A Fresh Take on a Classic Franchise
Resident Evil 7 was a much-needed breath of fresh air for the long-running franchise. The game ditched the over-the-top action of recent entries and returned to the series' survival horror roots. Set in a dilapidated plantation in Louisiana, the game follows protagonist Ethan Winters as he searches for his missing wife. The game's first-person perspective and immersive setting make for a truly terrifying experience.
A New Perspective on Horror
Resident Evil 7 is the first game in the series to use a first-person perspective, which adds a new level of immersion to the horror experience. The game's setting is also a departure from the series' usual urban environments, with a focus on the rural South and its unique brand of horror. The game's enemies, the Baker family, are some of the most memorable in the series, with their twisted personalities and grotesque appearances.
A Return to Survival Horror
One of the biggest criticisms of recent Resident Evil games was their focus on action over horror. Resident Evil 7 corrects this with a return to the series' survival horror roots. The game features limited resources, a tense atmosphere, and plenty of jump scares. The game also introduces a new crafting system, which allows players to create new items and weapons from the resources they collect. Overall, Resident Evil 7 is a great addition to the series and a must-play for fans of survival horror.
Outlast 2: A Journey into the Unknown
Outlast 2 is a first-person survival horror game that takes players on a journey through a remote Arizona town. The game's story follows journalist Blake Langermann as he investigates the murder of a pregnant woman. The game's visuals are a standout feature, with its eerie landscapes and unsettling atmosphere. But it's the game's sound design that really sets it apart.
Audio Horror
Outlast 2 is a game that relies heavily on its sound design to create a sense of terror. The game's use of ambient noise, music, and voice acting all contribute to the game's terrifying atmosphere. The game also features some of the most gruesome and disturbing sound effects in recent memory, which only add to the horror. The game's audio design is a masterclass in creating tension and dread.
A Story of Faith and Fear
Outlast 2's story is a disturbing exploration of religious fanaticism and the lengths people will go to in the name of faith. The game's villains, the cult known as Temple Gate, are some of the most unsettling in recent memory. The game's themes of sacrifice, sin, and redemption are expertly woven into the story, leaving players questioning their own beliefs as they progress through the game. Overall, Outlast 2 is a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing.
Little Nightmares: A Creepy and Charming Adventure
Little Nightmares is a puzzle-platformer that takes place in a surreal world of oversized furniture and grotesque creatures. The game's protagonist, a small girl named Six, must navigate this world and escape the clutches of the monstrous inhabitants. The game's visuals are a standout feature, with a unique art style that is both creepy and charming.
A Unique and Charming Art Style
Little Nightmares' art style is one of its biggest selling points. The game's world is a blend of whimsy and horror, with oversized furniture and twisted creatures that are both creepy and endearing. The game's use of light and shadow is particularly well-done, creating an atmosphere that is both eerie and inviting. The game's visuals are a true feast for the eyes.
A World of Puzzles and Peril
Little Nightmares is a game that is equal parts puzzle and platformer. The game's puzzles are cleverly designed and require a mix of logic and timing to solve. The game's platforming elements are also well-done, with Six jumping, climbing, and sneaking her way through the game's various environments. The game's bosses are a highlight, with each one presenting a unique challenge for players to overcome. Overall, Little Nightmares is a game that is both creepy and charming, and well worth playing for fans of puzzle-platformers.
The Importance of Horror Games
Horror games are more than just entertainment. They are a powerful tool for exploring our deepest fears and anxieties, and can be a valuable form of self-reflection and personal growth. The best horror games are those that leave a lasting impact on players, forcing them to confront their own emotions and question their beliefs. Whether it's through psychological horror, survival horror, or some other sub-genre, horror games have the power to connect with players on a deep and meaningful level.
| Game | Genre | Standout Feature |
| The Evil Within 2 | Psychological Horror | Gripping Story |
| Resident Evil 7 | Survival Horror | First-Person Perspective |
| Outlast 2 | Survival Horror | Audio Design |
| Little Nightmares | Puzzle-Platformer | Unique Art Style |