Why RimWorld shouldn't be classified as a horror genre game

I’ve been reflecting on RimWorld and how people often categorize it. Although there are certainly dark and brutal aspects, I believe it doesn’t belong in the horror genre.

For instance, you may encounter situations like colonists being attacked by raiders or suffering serious injuries. The game’s organ harvesting and cannibalism elements can be unsettling as well. However, fundamentally, RimWorld feels more like a colony management simulator that incorporates survival strategies.

The overall tone is distinct from traditional horror games. It emphasizes strategic decision-making and narrative development through gameplay instead of attempting to frighten players. When unfortunate events occur, they’re depicted as part of the simulation rather than intended to invoke fear.

What’s your opinion? Am I overlooking something, or do others feel that RimWorld fits into a different genre completely?

It’s more like a spreadsheet that occasionally makes you question your morals

Yeah it’s basically a story generator with some messed up content thrown in. The presentation makes it feel distant instead of actually scary.

I think you’re spot on about RimWorld. It definitely leans more into dark humor than actual horror. The game throws ridiculous scenarios at you, like making human leather outfits just to get through the cold. It’s like a mix of survival strategy and black comedy. The art style and upbeat music really take the edge off any horror vibe, so it feels more absurd than terrifying.

The real horror isn’t what the game makes you do, it’s about the choices you make yourself. The scariest moments happen because of what you decide to do.

RimWorld is basically The Sims but your people occasionally eat each other. Still not horror though.