Horror games have been experiencing a surge in popularity lately, with titles like Resident Evil 4 Remake and Dead Space dominating the sales charts. According to industry experts, the genre is currently in a “golden age,” offering a unique and immersive experience that films and TV shows can’t replicate. The interactivity of video games allows players to be in control, creating a deeper level of immersion. This article delves into the secrets behind the scare trade and examines the future possibilities of horror games.
One of the key elements of horror games is the feeling of powerlessness. Developers often limit the abilities of players, leaving them with no way to fight back against the horrors they encounter. Philippe Morin, co-founder of Red Barrels, a Canadian studio known for the Outlast series, explains that this limitation allows for smarter game design, such as choosing a first-person view to amplify scares and reduce the workload on animating characters.
Another approach to horror games is adopted by Supermassive Games, a British company famous for its “playable horror movies.” Their games offer a film-like experience with motion-captured actors and branching narratives, giving players the freedom to shape the outcome of the story. These titles, like Until Dawn and the Dark Pictures Anthology, aim to appeal to a wider audience, including those who may be less accustomed to playing games.
Creating effective scares in horror games involves constant refinement. Developers often recruit new players during the testing process to gauge the fright factor and make necessary adjustments. Multiplayer modes have also become popular in the genre due to their appeal to streamers and the ability to share the horror experience with others. Supermassive Games has embraced multiplayer features, introducing “couch co-op” and online voting modes that allow audiences to influence gameplay decisions.
Additionally, there is ongoing discussion about providing fans of popular franchises new ways to experience them. Supermassive Games is working on a game based on the popular horror multiplayer game Dead by Daylight, while Capcom continues to reinvent and reboot its survival horror classic Resident Evil. Both studios are intrigued by the potential of virtual reality (VR), as it offers an even more immersive and intense experience. However, they recognize that VR adoption may still take time due to issues like motion sickness and cost.
As the popularity of horror games continues to rise, developers are exploring ways to make the genre more accessible and inclusive. Capcom aims to bring in a more diverse player base by providing accessibility options for players with disabilities. With advancements in technology, such as 3D sound, developers are constantly seeking ways to enhance the horror experience.
While the future of horror games looks promising, VR adoption and technological improvements will play a crucial role in shaping the genre. As of now, horror games are thriving and showing no signs of fading away. So, if you’re a fan of the genre, get ready for more scares and thrilling experiences in the years to come.
