The 35+ Best PS2 Horror Games
- 12001
A psychological tour de force, Silent Hill 2 is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling and character development. As protagonist James Sunderland searches for his deceased wife in the dense fog and darkness of the titular town, players are confronted with twisted monsters and symbolism which reflect James' guilt and torment. Sporting an unforgettable narrative twist, and boasting one of gaming's most evocative scores, this seminal survival horror entry commands respect not only for its chilling atmosphere, but also for its daring exploration of mature themes.
More Silent Hill 2
- #1 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #136 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #9 of 63 onThe Best Video Game Sequels
- 22003
Taking place seventeen years after the original game, Silent Hill 3 expertly delves into the sordid secrets of a cult hell-bent on resurrecting their dark god. The story unfolds through the eyes of Heather Mason, the teenage daughter of Silent Hill's first protagonist, Harry. Utilizing the series' signature fog-ridden environments and unsettling creature design, the game forces players to navigate both the grime-coated streets of Silent Hill and Heather's own psyche. Its emotionally charged story, combined with a haunting, industrial-tinged soundtrack, make Silent Hill 3 a standout entry in the franchise.
More Silent Hill 3- #93 of 256 onThe Best Third-person Shooter Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #5 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #399 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- 3Nov 01 2004
Delving into Japanese folklore, Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly tells the harrowing tale of twin sisters Mio and Mayu, who become trapped in the haunted village of Minakami. Exploring familial bonds and chilling ghost stories, players must use the "Camera Obscura" to capture restless spirits and unravel the village's dark history. The innovative combat system, relying on snap decisions and well-timed photos, immerses players in the game's relentless tension. Building upon its predecessor's formula with improved visuals and sound design, Fatal Frame II is a must-play for fans of the supernatural.
- 4Nov 08 2005
The third installment in the Fatal Frame series, The Tormented blends the waking world with the realm of nightmares, creating an experience that is equal parts haunting and melancholic. As protagonist Rei Kurosawa is drawn into a spectral manor known as the "House of Sleep," she must navigate the treacherous divide between dreams and reality, grappling with her own grief in the process. Utilizing the "Camera Obscura" to fend off vengeful spirits, players are constantly on edge as they piece together the game's intricate narrative. Fatal Frame III's somber atmosphere and poignant storytelling make it a standout among survival horror titles.
- 52001
The chilling first entry in the Fatal Frame franchise, this game thrusts players into the eerie Himuro Mansion, a place steeped in violent rituals and restless spirits. Armed with only a camera, protagonist Miku Hinasaki must face off against malevolent ghosts while searching for her missing brother. The unique combat mechanic, requiring players to snap photos of their spectral opponents, adds a layer of tension and urgency to each encounter. Its gripping atmosphere and masterful blend of Japanese folklore make Fatal Frame a legendary debut in the horror genre.
- 6Apr 21 2005
Combining psychological horror with puzzle-solving gameplay, Haunting Ground tells the twisted tale of Fiona, a young woman trapped in a sprawling castle with a deranged captor. Accompanied by her loyal canine companion, Hewie, players must navigate through the castle's labyrinthine halls, solving puzzles and evading grotesque enemies. Building paranoia and uncertainty, the game's "panic system" forces players to think on their feet as they search for a way to escape. A unique gem in the PS2 horror library, Haunting Ground delivers a spine-tingling experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
- 72005
Revolutionizing the survival horror genre, Resident Evil 4 introduces an over-the-shoulder perspective and fast-paced combat, propelling the series into a new era. Reluctant hero Leon S. Kennedy dives headfirst into the heart of darkness, battling a zealous cult in rural Spain to rescue the President's kidnapped daughter. Featuring memorable boss battles, an atmospheric setting, and a refined inventory management system, the game redefines what it means to be a Resident Evil title. Intense, thrilling, and terrifying in equal measure, Resident Evil 4 is an undisputed classic in video game history.
More Resident Evil 4 - 8Sep 08 2004
Taking a bold departure from the previous entries, Silent Hill 4: The Room traps players in protagonist Henry Townshend's cursed apartment, forcing them to navigate eerie alternate dimensions through mysterious portals. Exploring themes of isolation and voyeurism, the game presents an unsettling, slow-burning narrative that delves into the psyche of its troubled antagonist, Walter Sullivan. Though divisive among fans for its gameplay changes, Silent Hill 4's unnerving atmosphere and unique spin on the series' formula make it a noteworthy entry in the pantheon of horror titles.
- #42 of 596 onSony PlayStation 2 Games: List of PS2 Console Games
- #11 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #284 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
A true fan favorite, Resident Evil Code: Veronica continues the story of siblings Claire and Chris Redfield as they navigate a zombie-infested island prison. Featuring stunningly detailed graphics, pulse-pounding action, and a haunting score, the game masterfully builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessors. Code: Veronica introduces new mechanics such as dual-wielding and the ability to switch between characters mid-game, increasing versatility in combat and puzzle-solving. For fans of the franchise, this game is considered a must-play chapter in the series' rich lore.
- 10Nov 06 2003
Steeped in Japanese folklore and mythology, Siren immerses players in the eerie world of Hanuda, a village frozen in time and shrouded in a mysterious red mist. Players must navigate the village's winding streets and interconnected stories while utilizing a unique "sightjacking" ability, allowing them to see through the eyes of both allies and enemies. With its nonlinear narrative, intricate sound design, and chilling atmosphere, Siren stands as a thought-provoking and nail-biting entry in the horror genre. Brimming with tension and mystery, this cult classic beckons players to uncover the dark secrets that lie within its foggy confines.
More Siren - 11Jan 19 2006
Delving into the twisted world of childhood cruelty, Rule of Rose is a deeply unsettling experience that leaves players grappling with its dark themes and disturbing imagery. Set in a 1930s English orphanage, players assume the role of Jennifer, a young girl navigating a sinister hierarchy established by her fellow orphans. The game's unique companion system, which sees Jennifer accompanied by a loyal dog, enhances both combat and puzzle-solving elements. With haunting visuals and a gripping narrative, Rule of Rose stands as an unforgettable, if controversial, entry in the survival horror genre.
- 12Feb 09 2006
This sequel to the original Siren ramps up the tension and terror by expanding on the unique "sightjacking" mechanic, transporting players back to the ominous island of Yamijima. Featuring an interconnected cast of characters and nonlinear storytelling, Forbidden Siren 2 weaves a complex web of supernatural intrigue. New gameplay elements, such as swimming and hiding underwater, lend a fresh sense of dread to this chilling adventure, while the updated visuals and unnerving sound design further immerse players in the terrifying world of Hanuda. For those seeking a spine-chilling, atmospheric experience, Forbidden Siren 2 is sure to satisfy.
- 13Mar 08 2004
Combining elements of psychological horror with visceral action, The Suffering plunges players into the depths of a haunted prison overrun by grotesque monsters. As inmate Torque, players must confront their violent past while battling the nightmarish creatures that roam the facility. The game features a morality system that influences the narrative's outcome, adding depth and replayability to this brutal adventure. With its intense gameplay, gruesome creature design, and haunting setting, The Suffering delivers a blood-pumping experience that pushes the horror genre's boundaries.
More The Suffering- #52 of 256 onThe Best Third-person Shooter Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #43 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #31 of 86 onThe Greatest Survival Horror Games Of All Time
- 14Apr 01 2004
Drawing from ancient Japanese ghost stories, Kuon transports players to the Heian period, where they must unravel the mysteries of a cursed manor. Assuming the roles of three different characters, each with their unique combat and puzzle-solving abilities, players encounter vengeful spirits and grotesque creatures in the game's moody, atmospheric environments. The intricate narrative weaves together elements of Buddhist mythology and Japanese folklore, creating a rich tapestry of supernatural horror. Steeped in tradition and fear, Kuon is a haunting experience that lingers long after the final credits roll.
- 15Apr 03 2005
Throwing players into a deadly high school filled with monstrous foes, ObsCure skillfully blends survival horror with teen slasher aesthetics. Players control a group of students, each with unique abilities, who must navigate the school's dark corridors and uncover the sinister secrets lurking within its walls. Featuring cooperative multiplayer options and an innovative flashlight mechanic that is crucial for both exploration and combat, ObsCure offers a fresh take on traditional horror gameplay. With its pulse-pounding action and campy charm, this game is equal parts thrilling and entertaining.
- 16Mar 18 2003
The third installment in the popular Clock Tower franchise, this game adopts a more action-oriented approach while maintaining the series' trademark suspense. Players control Alyssa, a young girl who must confront her family's dark legacy by battling grotesque stalkers known as "Subordinates." With its nail-biting gameplay, which combines stealth, evasion, and tense confrontations, Clock Tower 3 expertly balances adrenaline-pumping action with a chilling atmosphere. Its memorable villain designs and haunting soundtrack further elevate this spine-tingling adventure above other entries in the survival horror genre.
- 17Dec 11 2003
Expanding on the classic Resident Evil formula, Outbreak introduces online cooperative play to the series, encouraging teamwork and communication as players navigate the zombie-infested city of Raccoon. With a diverse cast of characters, each possessing unique abilities, players must collaborate to solve puzzles, manage resources, and fend off the relentless undead horde. Boasting multiple scenarios and branching storylines, Outbreak adds depth and replayability to the familiar survival horror experience. This innovative entry propels the Resident Evil franchise into the realm of multiplayer gaming while retaining the atmospheric dread beloved by fans.
- 18Sep 09 2004
Building on the successes of its predecessor, Resident Evil Outbreak: File #2 expands the online cooperative experience with new scenarios, characters, and features. Set during the events of the original Outbreak, this sequel provides players with more opportunities to explore the infested city of Raccoon and deepen their understanding of the overarching narrative. Boasting improved graphics, interface, and gameplay mechanics, File #2 enhances the multiplayer survival horror experience in every way. As a thrilling continuation of the Outbreak series, this game should not be missed by fans of the franchise.
- 192004
Picking up two years after the events of the first ObsCure, this sequel plunges players back into the world of supernatural horror and intrigue. Transporting the action to a university campus, ObsCure II introduces a new cast of characters, enhanced visuals, and an expanded co-op mode, allowing players to experience the terror with friends. The game's unique blend of action, survival horror, and teen slasher tropes once again delivers a pulse-pounding adventure that will keep players on the edge of their seats. With its campy charm and adrenaline-fueled gameplay, ObsCure II is a worthy successor to the original.
- 20
Exploring the sinister beginnings of the eponymous town, Silent Hill: Origins serves as a chilling prequel to the iconic horror franchise. Players take on the role of Travis Grady, a truck driver who stumbles upon the town's hidden horrors in search of a lost child. Incorporating familiar gameplay elements from previous entries, Origins refines the series' signature combat and puzzle-solving mechanics, while expanding its trademark atmosphere and narrative depth. As a disturbing exploration of Silent Hill's unspoken past, this prequel satisfies fans' insatiable craving for more spine-chilling terror.
More Silent Hill: Origins- #56 of 256 onThe Best Third-person Shooter Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #31 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #37 of 86 onThe Greatest Survival Horror Games Of All Time
- 21Aug 19 2002
Serving as a sequel to John Carpenter's classic 1982 film, The Thing video game expertly mixes elements of survival horror, squad-based tactics, and psychological terror. Players take on the role of Captain Blake, who is sent to investigate the aftermath of the movie's events and ends up facing the same horrifying shape-shifting creature. The game's innovative "trust system" forces players to not only manage their resources and combat skills but also maintain the morale and trust of their squad members, adding another layer of tension to the experience. Combining immersive storytelling, engaging gameplay, and atmospheric thrills, The Thing is a fitting continuation of the beloved movie.
- 22Nov 18 2003
From the creators of Grand Theft Auto comes Manhunt, a gritty, controversial entry in the horror genre that pushes boundaries with its unflinching depiction of violence. Players assume the role of death row inmate James Earl Cash, who is forced to participate in a brutal game of survival orchestrated by a sadistic director. Utilizing stealth mechanics and a variety of gruesome weapons, players must strategically dispatch their opponents in increasingly brutal ways. With its raw, visceral intensity and unnerving atmosphere, Manhunt is not for the faint of heart but offers a thrilling experience for those seeking a darker take on the genre.
More Manhunt- #22 of 596 onSony PlayStation 2 Games: List of PS2 Console Games
- #12 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #61 of 101 onThe 101 Scariest Games Ever
- 23Mar 15 2005
Taking inspiration from classic survival horror titles like Resident Evil, Cold Fear plunges players into the freezing depths of the Bering Sea aboard a seemingly abandoned Russian whaling ship. As protagonist Tom Hansen, players must navigate the ship's claustrophobic corridors, fending off mutated creatures while battling the elements and uncovering the vessel's sinister secrets. The game's dynamic weather system and realistic water effects create an immersive, atmospheric experience that keeps players on edge. For fans of maritime terror, Cold Fear delivers a chilling adventure that's worth a play.
As a reimagining of the 1992 original that helped define the survival horror genre, Alone in the Dark: The New Nightmare pays homage to its predecessor while updating its gameplay and visuals for a modern audience. Players choose between detectives Edward Carnby and Aline Cedrac as they explore the mysterious Shadow Island, filled with supernatural horrors and Lovecraftian themes. Utilizing fixed camera angles and atmospheric lighting, the game creates an eerie, cinematic experience that will appeal to fans of classic horror titles. With its engaging narrative, clever puzzles, and compelling characters, The New Nightmare breathes fresh life into the iconic franchise.
- 25Sep 16 2005
This gripping sequel to The Suffering takes protagonist Torque on a nightmarish journey into the decaying urban landscape of Baltimore, where even more grotesque creatures inspired by human sins and vices await. Building upon the original's innovative morality system, Ties That Bind forces players to make tough choices that influence the game's outcome, enhancing replayability and narrative depth. With its visceral action, disturbing enemy design, and atmospheric environments, the game expertly combines psychological terror with frenetic gameplay, creating an intense and unforgettable experience.
- #65 of 256 onThe Best Third-person Shooter Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #38 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #7 of 30 onThe Best Xbox Horror Games
- 262007
Expanding upon its predecessor's brutal and controversial formula, Manhunt 2 thrusts players into the twisted mind of Daniel Lamb, an escaped mental patient seeking answers about his past. As Lamb, players must navigate the seedy underbelly of the city, stealthily dispatching adversaries with an array of gruesome weapons. With its unflinching approach to violence and a haunting storyline exploring themes of identity and sanity, Manhunt 2 doubles down on the aspects that made the first game so chilling but is best suited for those with a strong stomach.
- 27Mar 08 2001
Influenced by classic survival horror games, Extermination places players in the role of U.S. Marine Dennis Riley, who must combat a deadly virus outbreak at a remote Antarctic research facility. Combining third-person shooter mechanics with puzzle-solving and exploration, the game delivers a solid action-adventure experience steeped in horror. Extermination's chilling setting, relentless enemies, and thrilling gameplay make it a worthy entry in the genre for fans seeking a tense and engaging adventure.
- 28Mar 12 2004
Loyal fans of the iconic television series will delight in The X-Files: Resist or Serve, a survival horror game that captures the show's essence with an original storyline penned by series writer, Tom Schnauz. Playing as either Special Agents Mulder or Scully, players must navigate a web of supernatural occurrences, government conspiracies, and familiar foes while battling creepy monsters and solving intricate puzzles. With its immersive narrative, faithful recreations of the show's atmosphere, and beloved characters, this game is a must-play for any fan of the sci-fi classic.
- 29Aug 05 2004
This innovative horror title casts players as a cameraman for a television news crew, documenting the strange and deadly events unfolding in the city of Chicago. The game's unique "immersive camera" mechanic allows players to influence the story by choosing what to film, opening up branching narrative paths and multiple endings. Combining survival horror, mystery, and social commentary, Michigan: Report from Hell offers an unconventional and thought-provoking experience that challenges players to question the nature of journalism and voyeurism.
- 30
Featuring a unique blend of horror, humor, and surrealism, Gregory Horror Show invites players into the bizarre world of Gregory House, a hotel inhabited by eccentric and terrifying guests. Assuming the role of a lost soul, players must collect the "soul fragments" of each guest in order to return to the real world. With its distinctive art style, inspired by the CGI-animated television series, and quirky character interactions, the game offers a refreshing take on traditional horror tropes. For those seeking a light-hearted yet chilling experience, Gregory Horror Show is a truly one-of-a-kind adventure.
