In 2022, Sony transformed its PlayStation Plus service, marking the start of a new chapter for subscribers. Players now have the option to choose from three membership tiers: Essential, Extra, and Premium. To participate in online gameplay, a minimum of the PS Plus Essential subscription is necessary, which also offers a selection of monthly free games. However, for those specifically seeking PS Plus horror games, the Extra and Premium tiers present a more compelling library.
The Extra tier unlocks a vast selection of over hundreds of both PS4 and PS5 titles, with an addition of around 15 new games each month. On the other hand, the Premium tier encompasses all games from the Extra tier and further expands access to a rich archive of classic titles from the PS3, PS2, PS1, and PSP eras. Consequently, Sony’s PS Plus service covers a plethora of genres, including horror, ensuring that fans can find numerous frightening titles among the offerings.
Updated March 3, 2025 by Mark Sammut: Unfortunately, the PS Plus horror games selection has seen limited growth in new releases recently. The February 2025 lineup for Extra and Premium featured no horror titles, although offerings like Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – Tape 1 and Somerville might satisfy fans of the genre. The Essential games for March 2025—Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Sonic Colors: Ultimate, and TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection—also lack horror elements, further highlighting the reduced availability of new titles.
Despite this, the existing horror selections on PS Plus are sufficient to keep subscribers on the edge of their seats for quite some time.
1 Resident Evil Director’s Cut
Arguably The Most Influential Horror Game Ever
Within the PS Plus Extra tier, Capcom’s renowned franchise only offers one title: the 2020 remake of Resident Evil 3. Although this remake does not quite reach the acclaim of its predecessor, it still serves as an exceptional action-horror experience that is visually striking and easy to complete over a weekend.
The Premium tier compensates for the Extra’s limited Resident Evil offerings, including classics such as Resident Evil Director’s Cut, Code Veronica X, Resident Evil 4–6, and various entries from the Revelations and Chronicles series. While not all of these titles are recognized as the best PS Plus horror games, collectively they provide a substantial overview of this iconic franchise’s storied legacy. Resident Evil 4 often stands out as a favorite, yet the Director’s Cut remains a pure horror experience.
Even though it is not the original release, Resident Evil: Director’s Cut played a pivotal role in introducing the horror genre to mainstream gaming audiences. Its memorable opening, innovative mechanics, and atmospheric design made it a groundbreaking title that retains its ability to frighten players even in today’s gaming landscape.
2 Until Dawn
A PlayStation Slasher Movie
The benefits of downloading games directly from the console’s storage make PS Plus Extra and Premium particularly appealing for immersive horror experiences, alleviating issues caused by slower internet connections. This is especially important for Supermassive Games’ Until Dawn, a title that thrives on rapid gameplay transitions as players attempt to survive.
With its clever use of jump scares, Until Dawn follows a group of friends haunted by their past actions. The narrative cleverly adapts with the player’s decisions, as the death of a character results in a lasting impact on the storyline, enhancing the tension throughout this cinematic adventure—arguably Supermassive’s finest work to date.
3 Outlast 2
You Can Hide, But You Cannot Fight
Outlast solidified its reputation as a leading contender in the defenseless protagonist genre. While the first game is not part of the PS Plus lineup, its sequel stands out as one of the scariest offerings available to subscribers.
In Outlast 2, players find themselves unarmed and must engage in a gripping game of hide and seek while exploring a chilling narrative. The storyline is deeply unsettling, exploring horrific themes that linger long after play. Though not necessarily “fun”in the traditional sense, Outlast 2 is a meticulously crafted nightmare.
4 The Evil Within 2
Open-Ended Map & Fantastic Creature Design
PS Plus Extra features both entries from Tango Gameworks’ The Evil Within series, vital experiences for anyone interested in survival horror. Drawing inspiration from Resident Evil, these titles include unique elements that allow them to stand apart. The 2014 original serves as an ideal entry point for newcomers, delivering a compelling introduction as players navigate a nightmarish investigation.
The sequel expands the original’s ideas further, introducing an open-world environment that grants players more autonomy. This time, players navigate a simulated town in search of a supposedly deceased daughter, where the game’s unsettling atmosphere keeps players on edge. While the horror may not strike as frequently, the overall gameplay quality in The Evil Within 2 surpasses that of its predecessor.
5 The Dark Pictures Anthology
Fantastic Horror Co-Op Games
The Dark Pictures Anthology, another product from Supermassive, represents a significant endeavor yet may not offer the same level of fulfillment as Until Dawn or The Quarry. Each title in the anthology features distinct stories loosely tied through a framing theme but is primarily focused on standalone experiences. The PS Plus Extra tier includes all four non-VR installments: Man of Medan, Little Hope, House of Ashes, and The Devil in Me, each of which takes about 5–6 hours to complete.
While the characters and storylines vary, the mechanics and scares remain consistent across entries. Although each game may not be seen as a masterpiece individually, The Dark Pictures Anthology remains an excellent choice for horror enthusiasts, especially those seeking cooperative gameplay experiences, which are skillfully integrated within the series.
6 Siren: Blood Curse
Underrated PS3 Horror Gem
PS Plus Premium offers access to both the PS2 classic Siren and its reimagining, Siren: Blood Curse. Although not hailed as classic, both titles present engaging survival horror elements, with Blood Curse being more accessible for modern-day replay. This episodic game follows a TV crew investigating the eerie village of Hanuda, uncovering the dark secrets and threats that lie within.
Siren: Blood Curse incorporates stealth mechanics, demanding players to avoid confrontations. A unique feature allows players to briefly perceive the world through the eyes of an enemy, enabling strategic decisions to evade danger. This distinctive gameplay mechanic sets Siren apart in the horror landscape and shines brightest in Blood Curse.
The original PS2 Siren is also available within the Premium tier.
7 The Last Of Us Remastered (Or, The Last Of Us Part 1)
A Masterpiece With A Horror-Leaning Setting (That Is Not Particularly Scary)
Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us epitomizes a masterclass in narrative gaming, blending horror elements with compelling character development, often overshadowing the undead threats lurking within the game’s environment. The presence of zombies is a constant reminder of danger, heightening tension throughout the gripping storyline.
The Last of Us masterfully balances physical horror with psychological depth, ensuring players remain engaged with the immersive world filled with detail. The game’s remake, The Last of Us Part 1, enhances visuals and gameplay, making it a worthy starting point for newcomers and an appealing revisit for long-time fans seeking refined aesthetics.
8 The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners – Chapters 1 & 2
Walkers Have Never Looked Scarier
June 2024 marked a notable expansion for PS Plus, with the addition of PS VR2 titles. Among the seven new releases are horror experiences like The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners, set in a flooded New Orleans where players assume the role of “the Tourist” searching for invaluable supplies amidst hordes of intimidating zombies.
While both chapters are enjoyable, the first entry excels as a horror experience, whereas the sequel functions more as an engaging FPS with horror elements.
9 Alone In The Dark: The New Nightmare
Alone In The Dark Meets Resident Evil
The legacy of Alone in the Dark is undoubtedly significant in the realm of horror gaming. As one of the pioneering franchises, the original 1992 entry broke ground at its release, leading to several sequels that, while historically intriguing, have not aged well. The series’ 2001 title, The New Nightmare, is often considered its most enduring iteration.
Though it may not hold the same pivotal status as its predecessor, The New Nightmare has developed a strong following due to its combination of fixed-camera survival horror mechanics, reminiscent of Resident Evil. It strikes a balance of horror and puzzle-solving, offering a unique identity through thoughtful writing, an engaging setting, and diverse creature designs.
10 Dino Crisis
A PS1 Classic Has Gone Premium
In a delightful Halloween 2024 surprise, Dino Crisis was introduced to PS Plus Premium, granting players access to this loved PS1 classic. Although the franchise has faded since its last entry in 2003, this addition indicates that Capcom has not entirely abandoned the IP.
Dino Crisis offers a gameplay experience similar to Resident Evil but incorporates gunplay more prominently. It retains tank controls and fixed camera perspectives while leaning into action. While it may not hold up perfectly against modern standards, the nostalgia it provides is a significant draw for many players.
Currently, Dino Crisis is exclusive to PS Plus Premium and is unavailable for purchase separately.
11 Chernobyl
Survival With A Hint Of Horror
Chernobylite is a complex blend of survival mechanics set within the haunting landscape of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. As players take on the role of a scientist searching for his lost fiancée, the challenging environment poses not just formidable human threats but also supernatural horrors.
While the game incorporates some chilling moments, it leans more towards survival and resource management. Players explore diverse maps in search of essential supplies, leading to a potentially addictive gameplay experience dependent on individual preferences. Visually stunning, Chernobylite showcases impressive artistic design.
12 Observer: System Redux
Sci-Fi Horror Drenched In Atmosphere
Released in 2017 and reimagined as System Redux, Observer delivers enhanced visuals and gameplay while preserving the gripping atmosphere characteristic of its predecessor. Set in a dystopian future where consciousness can be penetrated, players embody a detective tasked with investigating a series of murders.
With gameplay heavily focused on story and ambiance within the confines of a solitary building, Observer: System Redux emphasizes tension over action, making it one of the standout horror games on PS Plus Premium and Extra.
13 Dredge
Cosmic Horror Done Brilliantly
While Dredge may not fit the traditional mold of a horror game, it offers a unique take on cosmic terror. Set in the mysterious town of Greater Marrow, players experience life as a fisherman with debt obligations, searching for fish and logs, while uncovering the eerie aspects of their surroundings.
As darkness falls, the horror elements emerge, with players encountering unspeakable creatures reminiscent of H. P.Lovecraft’s vivid nightmares. Instead of relying on jump scares, Dredge effectively builds an atmosphere of dread, revealing the psychological plight of both the protagonist and the townsfolk.
14 F. E.A. R.First Encounter Assault Recon
A Great FPS AND A Great Horror Game
Though its sequels may have diluted some of the original’s charm, F. E.A. R.made a striking entrance into the horror genre upon its release. As a compelling FPS that artfully intertwines horror, it distinguishes itself with well-crafted scare sequences that leave a lasting impression.
Even today, few games successfully merge the FPS and horror genres as effectively as F. E.A. R.Despite showing signs of age, it remains one of the top PS Plus horror games thanks to its chilling narrative elements.
15 Inscryption
Intense Situation & Ingenius Storytelling
Inscryption challenges the conventions of horror by infusing deck-building mechanics with unexpected narrative twists. Players find themselves in a high-stakes card game against a mysterious entity, with the gameplay mechanics featuring familiar elements that are engaging and absorbing.
Horror manifests through the unsettling atmosphere surrounding each match, with players encouraged to explore beyond the confines of the tabletop setting. As a roguelike, Inscryption allows for some flexibility upon defeat while remaining accessible compared to other titles in the genre.
16 Dying Light 2: Stay Human
When Darkness Falls, The Infected Roam
While Dying Light 2 may not fully embrace the horror genre, its day/night cycle introduces intense encounters. During daylight, players engage in parkour adventures through an open world, while at night, the infected emerge, turning the streets into chaotic danger zones.
Utilizing stealth against the lurking zombies is crucial during the day, but darkness transforms the experience into a desperate survival scenario requiring quick reflexes and strategic navigation. Though not a pure horror game, it effectively incorporates terrifying elements alongside dynamic gameplay and combat.
17 Dead By Daylight
A Celebration Of Horror
Since its 2016 launch, Behaviour Interactive’s Dead by Daylight has emerged as a significant presence in the horror gaming landscape. Players navigate a competitive environment where four individuals attempt to escape a player controlling a supernatural being. This straightforward yet effective setup has drawn a ‘new blood’ of players following its integration with PS Plus Extra.
One major factor contributing to Dead by Daylight’s success is its ongoing crossovers with various horror franchises. These collaborations with franchises like Halloween, Stranger Things, and Silent Hill provide players with thrilling encounters featuring their favorite horror characters, creating an engaging multiplayer experience that remains fresh over time.
18 Killer Frequency
DJ Slasher
Killer Frequency takes an innovative approach to the slasher genre. Rather than immersing players in direct action as a victim or an antagonist, it centers around a DJ receiving frantic calls from people seeking to evade a grisly fate.
This engaging premise, though unconventional, thrives through clever puzzles and a lighthearted tone. With a compact campaign that can be completed in a single weekend, Killer Frequency offers a unique and entertaining twist on familiar horror narratives.
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