Ever wondered how your favorite horror movies translate into video games? Some adaptations hit the mark, while others… well, they take a detour into the bizarre. Let’s explore some horror games inspired by movies and see how they stack up against their cinematic counterparts.
Alien: Isolation (2014) – Inspired by “Alien” (1979)
Alien: Isolation is a masterclass in horror game design. Inspired by Ridley Scott’s “Alien,” it captures the film’s claustrophobic tension perfectly. You play as Amanda Ripley, daughter of Ellen Ripley, trying to uncover her mother’s fate. The game’s atmosphere, dripping with dread, makes you feel every bit as hunted as the characters in the movie. The xenomorph is terrifyingly intelligent, learning and adapting to your tactics, ensuring that no two encounters feel the same. This game is a stellar homage to its cinematic origin, nailing the suspense and fear that made “Alien” a classic.
Friday the 13th: The Game (2017) – Inspired by “Friday the 13th” series
One of the first games that comes to mind when talking about horror games inspired by movies is Friday the 13th: The Game! It lets you step into the shoes of the infamous Jason Voorhees or one of his potential victims. Inspired by the slasher series, the game captures the campy horror and relentless pursuit Jason is known for. It features asymmetrical multiplayer gameplay where one player controls Jason, hunting down other players who must survive the night. Despite some technical issues and mixed reviews, the game delivers on the nostalgic thrill of the movies, complete with gruesome kills and frantic escapes.
The Thing (2002) – Inspired by “The Thing” (1982)
The Thing video game picks up where John Carpenter’s horror classic left off. Set in a remote Antarctic outpost, you lead a team investigating the aftermath of the film’s events. The game brilliantly captures the movie’s paranoia, with team members potentially becoming infected by the alien creature. Trust and suspicion are key mechanics, creating a tense atmosphere as you decide who to trust. While the graphics and gameplay may feel dated today, The Thing does a commendable job of translating the film’s core horror elements into a playable format.
Jaws Unleashed (2006) – Inspired by “Jaws” (1975)
Jaws Unleashed flips the script by putting you in control of the great white shark from Steven Spielberg’s iconic film. You roam the waters around Amity Island, causing chaos and devouring anything that crosses your path. While the concept is intriguing, the execution falters. Clunky controls and repetitive missions mar the experience. However, for fans of the movie, the game offers a unique perspective, allowing you to embody one of cinema’s most feared predators.
Saw: The Video Game (2009) – Inspired by “Saw” series
Saw: The Video Game plunges you into the twisted world of Jigsaw’s traps. Playing as Detective Tapp, you navigate deadly puzzles and traps to uncover the truth. The game captures the sadistic creativity of the Saw movies, making you think quickly to survive. While it didn’t receive glowing reviews, fans of the series appreciate its adherence to the movie’s themes of moral choices and gruesome consequences. It’s a grim and grisly ride, much like the films that inspired it.
Ghostbusters: The Video Game (2009) – Inspired by “Ghostbusters” (1984)
One of the horror games inspired by movies that highly deserves a spot on the list is Ghostbusters: The Video Game. It reunites the original cast in a brand new ghostbusting adventure. Set two years after Ghostbusters II, you join the team as a rookie, capturing ghosts and saving New York from supernatural threats. The game blends humor and horror, staying true to the spirit of the movies. With its engaging story, voiced by the original actors, and fun gameplay, this game is often considered the true Ghostbusters 3 by fans. It successfully captures the charm and excitement of busting ghosts.
Predator: Hunting Grounds (2020) – Inspired by “Predator” (1987)
Predator: Hunting Grounds is an asymmetrical multiplayer game inspired by the 1987 classic. One player controls the Predator, while others play as a fireteam trying to complete missions and survive. The game nails the Predator’s lethal prowess, with various weapons and gadgets at your disposal. Though it has faced criticism for balance issues and repetitive gameplay, it effectively brings the intense cat-and-mouse dynamic of the movie to life. Fans of the franchise will enjoy stalking their prey or surviving the hunt.
Evil Dead: The Game (2022) – Inspired by “Evil Dead” Series
Evil Dead: The Game pulls you right into the heart of Sam Raimi’s iconic horror universe. Inspired by the “Evil Dead” series, this game lets you step into the shoes of Ash Williams and other beloved characters from the franchise. You battle Deadites, explore familiar locations, and wield the signature chainsaw and boomstick. The game captures the essence of the movies, blending horror with dark humor seamlessly. Bruce Campbell’s return to voice Ash adds an authentic touch, making the experience feel like a true continuation of the films. Fans will appreciate the faithful recreation of the franchise’s gory yet quirky spirit.
Blair Witch (2019) – Inspired by “The Blair Witch Project” (1999)
Blair Witch drags you into the haunting woods of Burkittsville. You play as Ellis, a former cop searching for a missing boy. The game uses psychological horror to great effect, mirroring the unsettling atmosphere of “The Blair Witch Project.” Armed with a flashlight and a dog named Bullet, you navigate the woods while confronting your past. The game excels in creating a sense of dread and isolation, though some criticized its pacing and linearity. Overall, it’s a spine-chilling tribute to the cult classic.
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2023) – Inspired by “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” (1974)
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre game brings the raw horror of the 1974 film to life. Players navigate the macabre world of Leatherface and his cannibalistic family. The game captures the gritty and brutal essence of the movie, immersing players in a terrifying fight for survival. Released in 2023, it offers a visceral experience, making fans feel the same gut-wrenching terror that made the original film a horror milestone.
Some of those horror games brilliantly capture the essence of their movie inspirations, while others shine through with their own compelling narratives that keep players hooked and terrified. Here are some of the best of the Horror Games with the Best Plot.
