I remember being maybe 12 or 13 years old when I tried playing Assassin’s Guild for the first time. The whole vibe of that game was seriously unsettling even though it wasn’t meant to be a horror title. There were these specific levels that still stick with me today - one took place at this weird mansion party with really disturbing characters, and another was set in this empty motel that had this eerie, abandoned feeling to it. The lighting and sound design made everything feel so atmospheric and creepy. Even now when I think back to those missions, I get goosebumps. The game wasn’t trying to be scary but somehow managed to create this really uncomfortable tension that made my skin crawl. Has anyone else experienced something similar with games that weren’t supposed to be frightening?
Ocarina of Time’s ReDeads still make me pause the game when I hear that scream.
Totally agree! Minecraft caves can really mess with your head. It’s all chill until you hear those unexpected sounds and then it’s panic mode. But that thrill is part of the fun, right? It’s the perfect mix of relaxing and intense.
Subnautica got me good. Swimming in dark water while something massive moves below you hits different.
Shadow of the Colossus hits different. There’s this melancholy dread that sticks with you. You’re battling massive, seemingly innocent creatures while haunting music plays in the background. The world feels so empty, and you can’t shake the feeling that you’re doing something morally wrong. That uncomfortable atmosphere lingers long after you put the controller down.
Majora’s Mask was genuinely disturbing. That creepy moon face and the time loop thing made everything feel so unsettling and full of dread.