In 2026, the horror gaming landscape is set to be electrifying, promising unforgettable thrills with a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. This year will be remarkable not just for the revival of classic franchises but also for the debut of new chilling experiences. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming releases, let’s explore the top horror games that will define this terrifying year.
Resident Evil Requiem and Other Anticipated Titles
Kicking off the spooky year is the much-anticipated Resident Evil Requiem, launching on February 27 for multiple platforms including PC and PlayStation 5. As CAPCOM celebrates 30 years of survival horror, the series returns to its roots in Raccoon City. The storyline propels players 30 years beyond the initial outbreak, following Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst with ties to the series’ past. Players will encounter a battle-hardened Leon S. Kennedy in a narrative that promises to deliver the definitive survival horror experience. With the ability to swap between first and third-person perspectives and a nemesis-like mechanic, Resident Evil Requiem is poised to be the definitive survival horror experience of the year.
Another thrilling title, Reanimal, from Tarsier Studios, arrives on February 13, featuring a cooperative horror adventure set in a grotesquely beautiful world. The game’s dynamic setting and engaging story of a brother-sister duo promise an atmospheric journey, releasing fittingly on Friday the 13th.
Revival of Classics and New Adventures
March 12 marks the release of the Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake, bringing back its haunting tale with enhanced visuals and new mechanics that deepen the player’s connection to the eerie Minakami Village. With modernized elements and Team NINJA’s involvement, this title will captivate both veterans and newcomers.
In September, horror fans will be drawn into Halloween: The Game, where IllFonic’s collaboration with original director John Carpenter promises a gripping experience blending single-player and multiplayer modes. Players immerse themselves in the chilling atmosphere of Haddonfield, donning Michael Myers’ mask or fighting for survival.
Exploring the Horrific Universe of Hellraiser
Towards the year’s end, Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival will finally bring the Hellraiser franchise to video games. Developed by Saber Interactive, this first-person survival horror will have players navigating through a labyrinthine world, filled with brutal melee combat and intricate puzzles, promising a game that holds nothing back.
Honorable Mentions
Beyond these, several other titles are set to make a mark on horror enthusiasts in 2026, including Silent Hill: Townfall, The Sinking City 2, Directive 8020, and more. Each promises unique narratives and haunting atmospheres to keep players on edge throughout the year.