Best Horror Games on PS Plus Right Now

Best Horror Games on PS Plus Right Now

If you're seeking a pulse-pounding gaming experience, there's no better time to dive into the world of horror games on PS Plus. Whether you’re a fan of survival horror or psychological thrillers, the PlayStation Plus service offers a diverse range of terrifying titles across its subscription tiers. This article rounds up the best horror games available right now on PS Plus, so you can find your next scream-fest without hunting across multiple platforms. From heart-stopping survival challenges to mind-bending narratives, these games promise thrills for every type of horror fan.

Why Horror Games on PS Plus Matter in 2024

Horror games have continued to evolve, blending intense gameplay with immersive storytelling. For many gamers, these titles offer more than just scares—they are psychological journeys that leave lasting impressions. With Sony’s revamped PS Plus tiers—Essential, Extra, and Premium—players get access to a huge library of games, including some of the best horror titles on the market. Whether you opted for the basic subscription or splurged on Premium, there’s a horror game in the PS Plus catalogue tailored to your taste and level of terror tolerance.

As gaming technology continues to improve, particularly on the PS5, horror experiences have become more immersive and realistic. Enhanced graphics, spatial audio, and faster load times mean each frisson of fear feels even more vivid. Plus, the increasing popularity of psychological thrillers means many horror titles now emphasize atmosphere and storytelling over cheap jump scares.

This guide will walk you through some standout horror games currently available on PS Plus, touching on gameplay, themes, and why each game is worth your time.

A Guide to the Best Horror Games PS Plus Offers Right Now

1. Resident Evil Village (PS Plus Extra/Premium)

What it is: The eighth mainline entry in the legendary Resident Evil franchise, Resident Evil Village combines survival horror with an exciting action-adventure twist.

Why it stands out: Set in a creepy European village, this game emphasises atmospheric horror, gruesome enemies, and a gripping story that builds on Resident Evil 7’s perspective. It features a mix of combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving that keeps players constantly engaged.

Gameplay: Expect tense moments where resources are scarce and every decision counts, classic survival horror staples. The game beautifully blends grotesque enemies with immersive environments, including the haunted castle and the mysterious village.

Price and availability: As a part of the PS Plus Extra and Premium tiers, you get full access without extra cost beyond your subscription, making it a tremendous value for Resident Evil fans and newcomers alike.

2. Returnal (PS Plus Extra/Premium)

What it is: A unique blend of survival horror and roguelike elements with a heavy psychological thriller slant, Returnal drops you onto a hostile alien planet in an endless cycle of death and rebirth.

Why it stands out: Unlike many horror games, Returnal uses fast-paced combat and procedurally generated levels to create an intense but thrilling experience. Its story explores the protagonist’s fractured psyche, weaving themes of trauma and memory, which elevate the feeling of unease.

Gameplay: Players must learn enemy patterns and strategically upgrade weapons while uncovering the mysterious narrative. The PS5’s haptic feedback and 3D audio enhance every moment of suspense and discovery.

3. The Dark Pictures Anthology: Little Hope (PS Plus Extra/Premium)

What it is: This narrative-driven survival horror game offers an anthology of standalone stories with branching plotlines influenced by player choices.

Why it stands out: Little Hope excels as a psychological thriller, with eerie settings, supernatural elements, and multiple endings. Its cinematic approach and QTE-based gameplay make for an engaging horror film-like experience.

Gameplay: The game’s cooperative mode also lets you experience the suspense with friends, adding a social dimension to the scares.

4. Dead by Daylight (PS Plus Essential/Extra/Premium)

What it is: A multiplayer survival horror game where one player embodies the killer stalking four survivors.

Why it stands out: Unlike story-driven horror games, Dead by Daylight thrives on asymmetric gameplay that keeps players on edge every round. It’s perfect for those who enjoy both horror and competitive play.

Gameplay: Survivors strategise to repair generators and escape, while killers bring unique terrifying abilities. The game also regularly adds new characters and maps, many inspired by famous horror franchises.

5. Alien: Isolation (PS Plus Extra/Premium)

What it is: A masterclass in survival horror, Alien: Isolation pits you against a relentless Xenomorph aboard a derelict space station.

Why it stands out: The game is praised for its nerve-wracking stealth mechanics and authentic Alien franchise atmosphere. It’s all about evasion and resource management, delivering constant tension without the need for excessive combat.

Gameplay: Adaptive AI ensures that the Xenomorph is always hunting, making every hideout and escape attempt nail-bitingly close.

6. Until Dawn (PS Plus Extra/Premium)

What it is: A cinematic horror adventure resembling an interactive slasher movie, Until Dawn puts players through the wringer with branching narratives and permadeath mechanics.

Why it stands out: The dialogue choices and quick-time events influence who lives or dies, and the plot twists keep you guessing. This game is a great fit for players who love horror movies and interactive stories.

Gameplay: The tension builds as players try to keep a group of teenagers alive through a night of terror on a mountain retreat.

7. The Quarry (PS Plus Extra/Premium)

What it is: A spiritual successor to Until Dawn, The Quarry offers an improved cinematic horror experience with multiple characters and branching storylines based on player choices.

Why it stands out: Stunning visuals and a gripping script make this game a must-play for fans of psychological thrillers. The suspense-driven narrative centres around a group of camp counsellors facing supernatural threats.

Gameplay: Choices matter more than ever, affecting relationships and who survives.

8. The Evil Within 2 (PS Plus Extra/Premium)

What it is: A survival horror game that combines psychological scares with traditional horror action set in a grotesque dreamlike world.

Why it stands out: Developed by Shinji Mikami, the mind behind Resident Evil, Evil Within 2 mixes graphic horror, puzzles, and combat. The story delves into dark family drama wrapped in a nightmare reality.

Gameplay: Exploit the environment to survive and uncover the protagonist’s tragic past.

9. Martha is Dead (PS Plus Premium)

What it is: A deeply disturbing psychological thriller set against the backdrop of World War II Italy.

Why it stands out: This title stands apart for intertwining real historical events with supernatural elements, providing a mature horror experience with a focus on narrative and atmosphere.

Gameplay: Combining exploration, puzzle-solving, and quick-time events, Martha is Dead explores themes of trauma and grief in an intense storyline.

Expert Insight: Picking Your Perfect Horror Experience on PS Plus

It’s worth noting that the horror games on PS Plus serve different kinds of fears. If you like your scares fast-paced and aggressive, Returnal and Resident Evil Village are top picks. For players craving gripping stories with psychological depth, The Quarry and Until Dawn deliver tension in spades. Multiplayer fans will appreciate the suspense and unpredictability of Dead by Daylight.

Many players overlook the subtle storytelling that psychological thrillers offer, focusing instead on jump scares. Titles like Alien: Isolation and Martha is Dead excel precisely because they build dread through atmosphere and narrative. This style appeals to players who want more than just momentary shocks.

For those on a budget, the Essential tier still offers gems like Dead by Daylight, yet upgrading to Extra or Premium gives access to a more extensive horror library perfect for immersive PlayStation 5 experiences.

Alternatives and Comparisons

Other platforms like Xbox Game Pass and PC subscription services also offer horror games but PS Plus holds its own with exclusive titles and optimised PlayStation experiences. If you prefer VR horror, the PS Store has specific VR titles worth exploring, but they aren’t included in PS Plus subscriptions.

For players seeking more indie horror games, PS Plus Extra sometimes cycles in hidden gems not mentioned here, so keep an eye on monthly updates. Generally, PS Plus offers a fantastic blend of AAA and indie titles, ranging from survival horror classics to newer experimental psychological thrillers.

Quick Summary: Best Horror Games PS Plus by Category

• Best Survival Horror: Resident Evil Village
• Best Psychological Thriller: The Quarry
• Best Multiplayer Horror: Dead by Daylight
• Best Atmospheric Horror: Alien: Isolation
• Best Cinematic Experience: Until Dawn
• Best Roguelike Horror: Returnal
• Best Historical Psychological Horror: Martha is Dead

Frequently Asked Questions

Are horror games available on all PS Plus tiers?
Horror games appear mainly on the Extra and Premium tiers, but some multiplayer-focused scary games like Dead by Daylight are accessible even on the Essential plan.

Do I need a PS5 for these horror games?
Most titles run on both PS4 and PS5, but the PS5 offers enhanced graphics, faster loading times, and better audio that improve the horror experience.

Can I play these horror games offline?
Single-player games like Resident Evil Village and Until Dawn can be played offline, but multiplayer games like Dead by Daylight require an internet connection.

Are these horror games suitable for beginners?
Games like Until Dawn and The Quarry are more accessible for newcomers, while others like Returnal are challenging and may suit more experienced players.

Is VR included in PS Plus for horror games?
Currently, VR horror games are generally separate purchases and not part of the PS Plus catalogue.

Pricing and Availability

PS Plus subscriptions range from $9.99/month for Essential, $14.99/month for Extra, and $17.99/month for Premium, with discounts for longer commitments. Horror titles mentioned are available within the Extra and Premium tiers, making these plans the best value if you love scary games.

All games listed are available for download directly on your PlayStation console through the PS Plus game catalogue. Occasionally, sales or bundles related to these titles provide additional savings.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Whether you prefer nerve-wracking survival horror or unsettling psychological thrillers, PS Plus currently hosts a fantastic array of horror games perfect for every taste. Exploring these terrifying worlds is easier and more affordable with the varied PS Plus tiers. If you’re yet to try, starting with the Extra or Premium plan is a worthy investment for any horror fan seeking quality scares and unforgettable stories.

Don’t miss out—dive into the shadows and enjoy some of the best horror games PS Plus has on offer. For more gaming insights, explore our guides on top PlayStation exclusives and game recommendations. And if you want to stay informed about upcoming horror releases and PS Plus updates, subscribe for the latest news and reviews.

In this curated selection of PS Plus horror titles, your next nightmare is just a download away. Ready your courage and happy haunting!