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During our childhood, it was likely common that we may have been frightened by games for the smallest of reasons. Most of the time, the titles we played as kids weren’t even part of the horror genre or particularly scary experiences. However, something about them always might have rubbed many the wrong way. Some non-horror games can be terrifying due to a terrifying kid’s game level or an off-putting character design. Even some unpolished and uncanny animations or sudden noises can be enough to make a non-scary game feel in the realm of horror. Here are our picks for 10 games that aren’t horror but probably should be.
10. Luigi’s Mansion
The original Luigi’s Mansion was a terrifying experience for children. Although the game almost feels like horror for youngsters, it isn’t technically a horror game. However, with tons of sudden jump scares and some terrifying bosses, like Bogmire, Luigi’s Mansion is scary enough to be considered a kid’s horror game. Unfortunately, future entries have departed from the creepy, mysterious vibe of the original.
9. Psychonauts
Psychonauts is a certified cult classic and stands as many gamers’ favorite game of all time. However, some of the game’s levels can be terrifying when playing the platformer as a kid. Some examples include watching the campers sneeze their brains out, uneasy atmospheres in the camp, and twisted-level designs. This is especially true for scary levels like the Milkman’s Conspiracy. Plus, players who have found the hidden secret in Milla’s brain know the game’s true nature.
8. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Next, though Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time isn’t too scary overall, there are moments of the game that feel right out of a horror game. This includes Link’s first transition to the future, which features a dilapidated Hyrule straight out of a horror game. Plus, the Redeads and their horrifying scream are scary enough to cause nightmares.
7. Metroid Dread
As far as Metroid games go, an uneasy and tense atmosphere is a must for the series. This is especially true for Metroid Dread, which features one of the series’ most terrifying enemies. The E.M.M.I. is near unstoppable, at least at first, and constantly hunts for Samus, crawling in an almost animal-like pattern. Seeing one of these enemies is sure to scare players, even though Metroid Dread isn’t a horror game.
6. Minecraft
Minecraft is typically a peaceful and relaxing gameplay experience, sending you into a flow-like state of building or exploring. However, when players enter an underground cavern, Minecraft can feel as scary as a horror game. With dangerous enemies lurking around every corner and creepy cave noises playing, the biomes below the Overworld can be a chilling experience. Plus, Minecraft has some music discs and rumors that have left some players unsettled.
5. Batman: Arkham Asylum
Batman: Arkham Asylum is scary enough to easily have been a horror game. The grimy and gloomy atmosphere of the game adds some tension that will make some players uncomfortable. Additionally, the Scarecrow sections of the game make for an intriguing horror level amidst the typical action combat.
4. Pikmin Series
The Pikmin series is rather cute to be considered scary. However, those who have played the games, especially Pikmin 2, know how terrifying these games can be. Bosses drop suddenly and intensely, creating some great jumpscares. Plus, things like the Waterwraith and Creeping Chrysanthemum can catch players off-guard.
3. Half-Life 2
Half-Life 2 is already a tense and fun experience, with plenty of terrifying aliens. However, once players step foot in Ravenholme, the game becomes a fantastical yet horrifying experience. With limited resources and terrifying zombie-like creatures everywhere, Ravenholme shows just how scary Half-Life can be.
2. Earthbound
At times, Earthbound is too quirky for its own good. Some moments in the game can be so scary, both in implication and application, that it should be in a horror game. This includes things like cult attacks, Moonside, and of course, the final battle with Giygas at the end of the game.
1. Subnautica
Finally, Subnautica, though peaceful at times, could easily be a horror game. The game involves players exploring an alien ocean, attempting to find enough resources to survive. However, as many know, the sea can be a terrifying place. With enormous sea monsters that could be in a cosmic horror story and the tension of deep ocean trenches, Subnautica is easily the scariest non-horror game.
