The Best Multiplayer Horror Games to Play with Friends
Playing a horror game by yourself is a terrifying task. Doing so with a friend or two can help boost your confidence and make you a little less jumpy. While the genre dates back to Midway’s 1972 arcade console, Haunted House, early developers were kneecapped by technological limitations. Nowadays, with graphic gore, omnidirectional audio, and lifelike lighting and shadows, many titles are genuinely freaky to play. Hence, it is a blessing to tackle them with a friend. Here are some Argentics’ picks for the best horror games to play with your pals.
Test your Mettle in The Outlast Trials
Test your Mettle in The Outlast Trials
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Released: May 18, 2023 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Red Barrels
No game released in 2024 better exemplifies the evolution of the horror genre than The Outlast Trials. Veterans of the series probably remember inviting friends over and passing the controller at every death, as the first two installments of Outlast were that horrifying. Now, developers at Red Barrels have created a cooperative campaign for the first time.
Set in a secret Cold War-era lab in Arizona, you will play as one of four “volunteers” who have been coaxed into joining human trials by the mysterious Murkoff Corporation. The test subjects undergo a series of operations, including having night-vision goggles surgically attached to their heads. The NVGs are a crucial part of the gameplay, as they allow players to navigate dark corridors stealthily, but there is a catch: they require batteries. Players must choose between scavenging for more or creeping into the unknown darkness while effectively blind. In addition to batteries, players can carry throwable items used to distract enemies, an assortment of healing concoctions, and other quest-essential items. Due to shallow inventory space, players must rely on one another to balance out the team’s loot load.
Note! Between trials, you return to the Murkoff Facility, where you can upgrade gear, adjust your stats with new meds, or interact with other subjects.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Released: May 18, 2023 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Red Barrels
No game released in 2024 better exemplifies the evolution of the horror genre than The Outlast Trials. Veterans of the series probably remember inviting friends over and passing the controller at every death, as the first two installments of Outlast were that horrifying. Now, developers at Red Barrels have created a cooperative campaign for the first time.
Set in a secret Cold War-era lab in Arizona, you will play as one of four “volunteers” who have been coaxed into joining human trials by the mysterious Murkoff Corporation. The test subjects undergo a series of operations, including having night-vision goggles surgically attached to their heads. The NVGs are a crucial part of the gameplay, as they allow players to navigate dark corridors stealthily, but there is a catch: they require batteries. Players must choose between scavenging for more or creeping into the unknown darkness while effectively blind. In addition to batteries, players can carry throwable items used to distract enemies, an assortment of healing concoctions, and other quest-essential items. Due to shallow inventory space, players must rely on one another to balance out the team’s loot load.
Note! Between trials, you return to the Murkoff Facility, where you can upgrade gear, adjust your stats with new meds, or interact with other subjects.
Experience fear like never before while trying to survive The Outlast Trials. Read more at The Outlast Trials - Red Barrels (redbarrelsgames.com)
New to the series are four separate player classes, each with its perks and setbacks. This incentivizes playing with friends, as having as many skills on hand for each trial is always nice. This also creates a lot of replayability, as each player experiences missions differently depending on their role. Though not nearly as immersive as a true RPG, the touch of character development is enough to create a bond between the player and their virtual counterpart, drawing them even further into the experience.
The Outlast Trials is arguably the scariest co-op horror game on our list. It doesn’t rely solely on cheap jump-scares to keep players at the edge of their seats but instead draws them in with a rich plot, unveiled through a series of videos and phone calls throughout the game.
New to the series are four separate player classes, each with its perks and setbacks. This incentivizes playing with friends, as having as many skills on hand for each trial is always nice. This also creates a lot of replayability, as each player experiences missions differently depending on their role. Though not nearly as immersive as a true RPG, the touch of character development is enough to create a bond between the player and their virtual counterpart, drawing them even further into the experience.
The Outlast Trials is arguably the scariest co-op horror game on our list. It doesn’t rely solely on cheap jump-scares to keep players at the edge of their seats but instead draws them in with a rich plot, unveiled through a series of videos and phone calls throughout the game.
Travel to Livonia for Free in DayZ
Travel to Livonia for Free in DayZ
Number of players: 60 players per server (varies by server)
Multiplayer: Yes, online multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Released: December 13, 2018 (Full Release on PC), May 29, 2019 (Xbox One), May 29, 2019 (PlayStation 4)
Developer(s): Bohemia Interactive
DayZ is an open-world zombie survival game set in Eastern Europe. The game started as a mod on Arma but grew so popular that developers at Bohemia Interactive decided to make a standalone title. Constant communication between players and the very small dev team has helped the game evolve positively with every update. Now, to signal that the game is in a final state, developers have made the Livonia DLC free for all players and announced that work is underway for a third map.
DayZ is, at its core, a survival game. Players wander through a beautiful post-Soviet apocalypse, hoping to find food, water, clothes, and weapons. The catch? The cities are overrun with zombies, rabid wolves maraud rural villages, and ferocious brown bears stalk the Northwoods! On top of that, with massive servers supporting 60 players on console and 120 on PC, you never know who you might run into. Because it is an open-world game, there are no scripted jump scares, which means that action is unpredictable. One minute, you could be peacefully catching and cooking carp with a friend, and then suddenly, your heart is racing as you get ambushed by a gang of roving cannibals! Even slower moments in the game keep you on edge, like when you’re creeping through the pitch-black night and seeing a flashlight's glow in the distance. Should you turn and run? Or lay in the bushes while a fully-geared player walks just inches before you? Either choice will make your heart race.
Multiplayer: Yes, online multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Released: December 13, 2018 (Full Release on PC), May 29, 2019 (Xbox One), May 29, 2019 (PlayStation 4)
Developer(s): Bohemia Interactive
DayZ is an open-world zombie survival game set in Eastern Europe. The game started as a mod on Arma but grew so popular that developers at Bohemia Interactive decided to make a standalone title. Constant communication between players and the very small dev team has helped the game evolve positively with every update. Now, to signal that the game is in a final state, developers have made the Livonia DLC free for all players and announced that work is underway for a third map.
DayZ is, at its core, a survival game. Players wander through a beautiful post-Soviet apocalypse, hoping to find food, water, clothes, and weapons. The catch? The cities are overrun with zombies, rabid wolves maraud rural villages, and ferocious brown bears stalk the Northwoods! On top of that, with massive servers supporting 60 players on console and 120 on PC, you never know who you might run into. Because it is an open-world game, there are no scripted jump scares, which means that action is unpredictable. One minute, you could be peacefully catching and cooking carp with a friend, and then suddenly, your heart is racing as you get ambushed by a gang of roving cannibals! Even slower moments in the game keep you on edge, like when you’re creeping through the pitch-black night and seeing a flashlight's glow in the distance. Should you turn and run? Or lay in the bushes while a fully-geared player walks just inches before you? Either choice will make your heart race.
Evade zombies, craft equipment, and stalk other players in DayZ. Whatever your move, do not follow the stranger offering you a free kit in Kamyshovo. For details on the latest update and the Livonia map, head over to DayZ
The game’s crafting system is robust; every item you find can be used if you’re creative enough. For instance, you can throw a kitchen timer or alarm clock down an alley to distract a horde of zombies or stuff propane canisters into a tacklebox to craft an IED that can blow open an enemy base. Its health system makes DayZ unique from all multiplayer horror games. Even with a backpack full of medical supplies (which might take hours to gather), it can be hard to treat every injury and ailment. In no other game can you perform CPR on a trauma victim, bandage their wounds, and then fumble around testing their blood type and trying to administer a transfusion. At the same time, bullets fly overhead, and zombies hone in on your location. Moments like these make every experience so heartfelt and memorable, as in-game camaraderie and the time spent building up characters make it unbearable to die or lose a friend.
The game’s crafting system is robust; every item you find can be used if you’re creative enough. For instance, you can throw a kitchen timer or alarm clock down an alley to distract a horde of zombies or stuff propane canisters into a tacklebox to craft an IED that can blow open an enemy base. Its health system makes DayZ unique from all multiplayer horror games. Even with a backpack full of medical supplies (which might take hours to gather), it can be hard to treat every injury and ailment. In no other game can you perform CPR on a trauma victim, bandage their wounds, and then fumble around testing their blood type and trying to administer a transfusion. At the same time, bullets fly overhead, and zombies hone in on your location. Moments like these make every experience so heartfelt and memorable, as in-game camaraderie and the time spent building up characters make it unbearable to die or lose a friend.
Visit the Sunny City of Angels in Dead Island 2
Visit the Sunny City of Angels in Dead Island 2
Number of players: 1-3 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Released: April 21, 2023
Developer(s): Dambuster Studios
Twelve years after the release of the revolutionary Dead Island, Dambuster Studios is back with one of the best co-op horror games! Set in modern-day Los Angeles, players team up to survive the city-wide quarantine the US military has implemented. What is the reason the city has been closed up? Zombies. Players can choose between one of six characters at the beginning of the game, each with wildly different personalities. The ensemble cast of a petty criminal, a stripper, a D-list stuntman, and some other average Joes creates hilarious storytelling between the action. Likewise, players will encounter charismatic gang leaders, paranoid celebrities, and many other faces.
The first-person game differs from its predecessors as it no longer contains a skill tree but a “player deck,” which can be filled with skill and perk cards found or earned throughout the campaign. Being able to shuffle things up during the playthrough is fun and makes it less likely that your group will get stuck on a quest if a member can’t be online. The lack of acute skill specialization also makes it easier to jump into gameplay with strangers and still be able to carry on.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Released: April 21, 2023
Developer(s): Dambuster Studios
Twelve years after the release of the revolutionary Dead Island, Dambuster Studios is back with one of the best co-op horror games! Set in modern-day Los Angeles, players team up to survive the city-wide quarantine the US military has implemented. What is the reason the city has been closed up? Zombies. Players can choose between one of six characters at the beginning of the game, each with wildly different personalities. The ensemble cast of a petty criminal, a stripper, a D-list stuntman, and some other average Joes creates hilarious storytelling between the action. Likewise, players will encounter charismatic gang leaders, paranoid celebrities, and many other faces.
The first-person game differs from its predecessors as it no longer contains a skill tree but a “player deck,” which can be filled with skill and perk cards found or earned throughout the campaign. Being able to shuffle things up during the playthrough is fun and makes it less likely that your group will get stuck on a quest if a member can’t be online. The lack of acute skill specialization also makes it easier to jump into gameplay with strangers and still be able to carry on.
Hack and slash your way through the sun-soaked metropolis of Hell-A in Dead Island 2. For trailers and info check out Dead Island 2 - Deep Silver
The game is reminiscent of the movie Zombieland– characters have a sense of humor and often pretend to be living everyday lives, just for a brute of a zombie to come crashing through the door when you least expect it! The primarily intact city and casual banter tricks players into letting their guard down, making for some epic jump scares. On top of that, new technology has made this the goriest game in the franchise! The so-called “FLESH” (Fully Locational Evisceration System for Humanoids) mechanism is a randomly generated system of body dismemberment. This means that a good crack from your baseball bat could crush a zombie’s skull in or even take their arm clean off! Countless animations and realistic physics make every kill feel unique, so you will never get bored of fighting through the undead.
If trouble in paradise is your thing, head out to LA in Dead Island 2 for your fair share. The map is beautiful, the fights are visceral, and the storytelling is deep. This game promises to be good for both laughs and screams and is a wonderful time to play with your friends.
The game is reminiscent of the movie Zombieland– characters have a sense of humor and often pretend to be living everyday lives, just for a brute of a zombie to come crashing through the door when you least expect it! The primarily intact city and casual banter tricks players into letting their guard down, making for some epic jump scares. On top of that, new technology has made this the goriest game in the franchise! The so-called “FLESH” (Fully Locational Evisceration System for Humanoids) mechanism is a randomly generated system of body dismemberment. This means that a good crack from your baseball bat could crush a zombie’s skull in or even take their arm clean off! Countless animations and realistic physics make every kill feel unique, so you will never get bored of fighting through the undead.
If trouble in paradise is your thing, head out to LA in Dead Island 2 for your fair share. The map is beautiful, the fights are visceral, and the storytelling is deep. This game promises to be good for both laughs and screams and is a wonderful time to play with your friends.
Become Part of the Cult in DEVOUR
Become Part of the Cult in DEVOUR
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: January 28, 2021
Developer(s): Straight Back Games
In DEVOUR, players are part of the Watchers of Azazel, a demonic cult that realizes their leader, Anna (or another member, depending on the map), has gone full rogue trying to summon the goat demon Azazel. Now possessed, she’s causing all kinds of chaos. You and the squad must jump in, shut down the ritual, and stop this madness before Azazel gets unleashed.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: January 28, 2021
Developer(s): Straight Back Games
In DEVOUR, players are part of the Watchers of Azazel, a demonic cult that realizes their leader, Anna (or another member, depending on the map), has gone full rogue trying to summon the goat demon Azazel. Now possessed, she’s causing all kinds of chaos. You and the squad must jump in, shut down the ritual, and stop this madness before Azazel gets unleashed.
Source: https://www.devourgame.com/
Every map presents unique demons tied to the goat demon Azazel, with increasing difficulty as you destroy totems and banish evil. Your UV flashlight is your only defense against the growing hordes, but it's a limited resource, so strategic use is key. DEVOUR’s randomized item spawns and unpredictable AI make each session fresh and unpredictable, keeping players guessing with every playthrough.
For those seeking more intensity, there's Nightmare Mode, a brutal challenge for experienced players. With its tense atmosphere, escalating challenges, and cooperative gameplay, DEVOUR is a must-play for horror fans looking for their next co-op scare.
For those seeking more intensity, there's Nightmare Mode, a brutal challenge for experienced players. With its tense atmosphere, escalating challenges, and cooperative gameplay, DEVOUR is a must-play for horror fans looking for their next co-op scare.
Survive the Chaos in SCP: Secret Laboratory
Survive the Chaos in SCP: Secret Laboratory
Number of players: 20+ players (varies by server)
Multiplayer: Yes, online multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: December 29, 2017
Developer(s): Northwood Studios
Out of many online horror games to play with friends, SCP shines. It is a first-person, arena survival game reminiscent of The Darwin Project or Among Us, in the sense that players are split into five teams, each with their competing objectives and their suspicions of one another. Each game is set in a secret, procedurally-generated lab, meaning no player starts with the advantage of map knowledge. At the start of each game, you will randomly be assigned to one of five classes: a human lab-rat prisoner trying to escape, a scientist overlooking the experiments, an insurgent trying to destroy the lab, security tasked with rescuing the scientists, or a random SCP, which could be a ghost, anomaly, or even an evil AI code uploaded to the facility’s mainframe.
Multiplayer: Yes, online multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: December 29, 2017
Developer(s): Northwood Studios
Out of many online horror games to play with friends, SCP shines. It is a first-person, arena survival game reminiscent of The Darwin Project or Among Us, in the sense that players are split into five teams, each with their competing objectives and their suspicions of one another. Each game is set in a secret, procedurally-generated lab, meaning no player starts with the advantage of map knowledge. At the start of each game, you will randomly be assigned to one of five classes: a human lab-rat prisoner trying to escape, a scientist overlooking the experiments, an insurgent trying to destroy the lab, security tasked with rescuing the scientists, or a random SCP, which could be a ghost, anomaly, or even an evil AI code uploaded to the facility’s mainframe.
Work with friends and enemies alike as you try to survive and thrive in the endless, haunted corridors of SCP. Learn more on Steam at SCP: Secret Laboratory on Steam (steampowered.com)
Players compete to complete as many objectives as possible while trying to survive in the maze of dark corridors overrun with mutants and ghosts due to the attack on the facility. The game has plenty of jump scares, and players will easily get lost in the randomly generated rooms, not knowing if they have been through a part of the map before. On top of this, you never know who you can trust. Cunning players can disguise themselves as a different class and sabotage you. For instance, a common objective is to turn on the facility’s backup generators. An anomaly disguised as a prisoner might offer to help you do this, only to separate you from the pack and take you out once you’re alone in the electrical room. Player creativity makes every match unique. Different minds coming together on an unknown map promises fragile truces, inevitable backstabbings, and endless chaos. The game is currently free to play on Steam, so why not give it a try?
Note! In light, keep running until your stamina reaches zero. After that, don't run until it's full. Considering how the stamina bar refills, this approach is the quickest and most effective way to sprint.
Players compete to complete as many objectives as possible while trying to survive in the maze of dark corridors overrun with mutants and ghosts due to the attack on the facility. The game has plenty of jump scares, and players will easily get lost in the randomly generated rooms, not knowing if they have been through a part of the map before. On top of this, you never know who you can trust. Cunning players can disguise themselves as a different class and sabotage you. For instance, a common objective is to turn on the facility’s backup generators. An anomaly disguised as a prisoner might offer to help you do this, only to separate you from the pack and take you out once you’re alone in the electrical room. Player creativity makes every match unique. Different minds coming together on an unknown map promises fragile truces, inevitable backstabbings, and endless chaos. The game is currently free to play on Steam, so why not give it a try?
Note! In light, keep running until your stamina reaches zero. After that, don't run until it's full. Considering how the stamina bar refills, this approach is the quickest and most effective way to sprint.
Find Your Way Out in Labyrinthine
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 18 Aug, 2023
Developer(s): Valko Game Studios
If you’re into multiplayer horror games, Labyrinthine cranks up the tension with scary monsters, puzzles, and a procedurally generated map that keeps you guessing every run.
Dive into the Story Mode, where you follow Joan’s eerie journey through an abandoned fairground, or take on the ever-randomized Case Files for more variety and escalating difficulty. You’ll need to solve puzzles, manage resources, and keep your wits sharp because each of the 30+ unique enemies has tricks up its sleeve.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 18 Aug, 2023
Developer(s): Valko Game Studios
If you’re into multiplayer horror games, Labyrinthine cranks up the tension with scary monsters, puzzles, and a procedurally generated map that keeps you guessing every run.
Dive into the Story Mode, where you follow Joan’s eerie journey through an abandoned fairground, or take on the ever-randomized Case Files for more variety and escalating difficulty. You’ll need to solve puzzles, manage resources, and keep your wits sharp because each of the 30+ unique enemies has tricks up its sleeve.
Source: https://www.gamebyte.com/labyrinthine-is-a-co-op-horror-set-in-the-depths-of-a-hedge-maze/
The real terror comes when you’re split from your team and hear footsteps that aren’t yours. With a leveling system that unlocks new mazes and gear, plus hardcore challenges that reward exclusive loot, there’s always something to chase. Labyrinthine mixes puzzle-solving and survival horror in a way that keeps every session tense and unpredictable.
The real terror comes when you’re split from your team and hear footsteps that aren’t yours. With a leveling system that unlocks new mazes and gear, plus hardcore challenges that reward exclusive loot, there’s always something to chase. Labyrinthine mixes puzzle-solving and survival horror in a way that keeps every session tense and unpredictable.
Survive the Ghost Hunt in Phasmophobia
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: September 18, 2020 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Kinetic Games
Now, who doesn’t like good old ghost stories and haunted places? Phasmophobia is a great co-op horror game designed to push your nerves to the limits. You and your squad are about to drop into some seriously creepy spots. Why? It’s time to hunt down ghost activity and determine what spirits are haunting these places. With state-of-the-art ghost-hunting tools, you’ll be hitting up eerie houses, sketchy abandoned prisons, and freaky old schools to solve the mysteries behind these restless spirits. Each mission feels like leveling up. And they add to the bigger picture, answering questions—who are these ghosts, why are they haunting? And the most important part: what role will your team play in putting these haunting secrets together?
What sets Phasmophobia apart is its intense immersion. The realistic graphics and haunting audio create an atmosphere that keeps you constantly on edge. Your heart is pounding, and you creep through dark corridors. To discover the presence of the invisible, you rely on tools such as EMF readers and night vision cameras. Every subtle sound makes every moment in the game feel like a genuine paranormal investigation.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: September 18, 2020 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Kinetic Games
Now, who doesn’t like good old ghost stories and haunted places? Phasmophobia is a great co-op horror game designed to push your nerves to the limits. You and your squad are about to drop into some seriously creepy spots. Why? It’s time to hunt down ghost activity and determine what spirits are haunting these places. With state-of-the-art ghost-hunting tools, you’ll be hitting up eerie houses, sketchy abandoned prisons, and freaky old schools to solve the mysteries behind these restless spirits. Each mission feels like leveling up. And they add to the bigger picture, answering questions—who are these ghosts, why are they haunting? And the most important part: what role will your team play in putting these haunting secrets together?
What sets Phasmophobia apart is its intense immersion. The realistic graphics and haunting audio create an atmosphere that keeps you constantly on edge. Your heart is pounding, and you creep through dark corridors. To discover the presence of the invisible, you rely on tools such as EMF readers and night vision cameras. Every subtle sound makes every moment in the game feel like a genuine paranormal investigation.
Source: https://store.steampowered.com/app/739630/Phasmophobia/
With over 20 different ghost types, each with unique traits and behaviors, no two interactions ever feel the same. Finally, you are tripping through some clues, and suddenly, you’re running for your life as a ghost begins its deadly hunt. Using cursed possessions adds a dangerous twist, giving you valuable information, but your sanity is the price of entry.
Note! Taking pictures of different items around the area, like Ouija Boards, Bones, Voodoo Dolls, and footprints will earn you extra cash.
And for the good talk-lovers, you better stay silent. The game’s voice recognition system is one of its most thrilling features. The ghosts in Phasmophobia can hear you, responding to your actual voice during Ouija board sessions or EVP investigations. Talk too much; you might draw the ghost’s attention when you least expect it.
Such an innovative blend of co-op horror and voice recognition mechanics earned it high praise from critics and players alike. In October 2020, Twitch streamers and YouTubers picked it up, making it a massive hit in the gaming community.
With over 20 different ghost types, each with unique traits and behaviors, no two interactions ever feel the same. Finally, you are tripping through some clues, and suddenly, you’re running for your life as a ghost begins its deadly hunt. Using cursed possessions adds a dangerous twist, giving you valuable information, but your sanity is the price of entry.
Note! Taking pictures of different items around the area, like Ouija Boards, Bones, Voodoo Dolls, and footprints will earn you extra cash.
And for the good talk-lovers, you better stay silent. The game’s voice recognition system is one of its most thrilling features. The ghosts in Phasmophobia can hear you, responding to your actual voice during Ouija board sessions or EVP investigations. Talk too much; you might draw the ghost’s attention when you least expect it.
Such an innovative blend of co-op horror and voice recognition mechanics earned it high praise from critics and players alike. In October 2020, Twitch streamers and YouTubers picked it up, making it a massive hit in the gaming community.
Robbers vs Paranormal Creatures in Dark Hours
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, online multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 2024
Developer (s): Piece of Cake Studios
In Dark Hours, you're about to realize that the heist isn’t the hardest part—it’s surviving what comes after because a supernatural force traps your team of robbers in an auction house. The ones who said that money isn’t everything are right. Now, the mission is about survival. Up to four players must cooperate to escape or endure until dawn while avoiding a relentless demonic entity stalking the building.
Multiplayer: Yes, online multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 2024
Developer (s): Piece of Cake Studios
In Dark Hours, you're about to realize that the heist isn’t the hardest part—it’s surviving what comes after because a supernatural force traps your team of robbers in an auction house. The ones who said that money isn’t everything are right. Now, the mission is about survival. Up to four players must cooperate to escape or endure until dawn while avoiding a relentless demonic entity stalking the building.
Source: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2208570/Dark_Hours/
Working together is the most important part—unless you decide to pull some classic shady moves and throw your teammates under the bus (or, in this case, right into the monster's clutches). The environment is procedurally generated, so no two runs are the same. You’ll be sneaking around, dodging security cameras, disarming traps, and looting as much as possible without making too much noise. The more you loot, the louder you get, drawing unwanted attention from the lurking entity.
With escalating difficulty, randomized layouts, and the option to play as either a team player or a backstabbing thief, Dark Hours keeps you on edge with its mix of horror and survival mechanics.
Working together is the most important part—unless you decide to pull some classic shady moves and throw your teammates under the bus (or, in this case, right into the monster's clutches). The environment is procedurally generated, so no two runs are the same. You’ll be sneaking around, dodging security cameras, disarming traps, and looting as much as possible without making too much noise. The more you loot, the louder you get, drawing unwanted attention from the lurking entity.
With escalating difficulty, randomized layouts, and the option to play as either a team player or a backstabbing thief, Dark Hours keeps you on edge with its mix of horror and survival mechanics.
Run from a Murderous Mickey Mouse in Infestation: Origins
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform (s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 2024
Developer (s): Nightmare Forge Games
Infestation: Origins throws you and your squad into the ultimate 80s nightmare, where a simple pest problem morphs into a full-on fight for survival. What starts as a routine extermination job quickly spirals into a co-op survival horror experience filled with twisted versions of classic characters and urban legends. Developed by Nightmare Forge Games, this episodic horror title lets you and up to three friends team up as exterminators tasked with shutting down infestations before they spread—and believe us, it’s not just about rats.
From the moment you drop into each location, you'll know things are about to get messy. You can roll with your squad in private lobbies, dive into public matches, or even tackle the nightmare solo if you feel brave. Communication is vital, so use the in-game proximity and global voice chat to plan your moves and coordinate takedowns—whether you’re splitting up to handle the infestation faster or sticking together to survive.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform (s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 2024
Developer (s): Nightmare Forge Games
Infestation: Origins throws you and your squad into the ultimate 80s nightmare, where a simple pest problem morphs into a full-on fight for survival. What starts as a routine extermination job quickly spirals into a co-op survival horror experience filled with twisted versions of classic characters and urban legends. Developed by Nightmare Forge Games, this episodic horror title lets you and up to three friends team up as exterminators tasked with shutting down infestations before they spread—and believe us, it’s not just about rats.
From the moment you drop into each location, you'll know things are about to get messy. You can roll with your squad in private lobbies, dive into public matches, or even tackle the nightmare solo if you feel brave. Communication is vital, so use the in-game proximity and global voice chat to plan your moves and coordinate takedowns—whether you’re splitting up to handle the infestation faster or sticking together to survive.
Source: https://ihorror.com/new-horror-game-infestation-origins-features-grotesque-mickey-mouse-killer/
Your main mission? Find the source of the infestation and put an end to it—easier said than done. You’ll explore creepy environments like abandoned houses and derelict prisons, unlock new areas, keep the power running, and use cameras to track enemy movement. But don’t get too comfortable—these infestations are more than just bugs. You’ll be up against freakish monsters and twisted enemies while racing to eliminate nests before things get out of hand. Armed with your trusty extermination gear, you'll need to think fast, run when you can, and, most importantly, survive.
Each episode brings a new terrifying entity inspired by classic characters and urban legends. One minute, you could face a freaky version of Mickey Mouse, and the next, you’re up against a nightmarish character from an old saw. No two runs are the same. The randomness of item spawns, unpredictable AI, and customizable settings ensure it and keep you on your toes every time you play.
As the game progresses, you can continue to advance and obtain more skins, perks, and items for your squad. Whether you’re hoping for XP or simply want to enjoy some crazy undead evening out, Infestation: Origins is the place! With NVIDIA DLSS support, the game’s visuals look stunning without dropping a single frame, letting you soak in the eerie atmosphere while staying locked in the action.
Your main mission? Find the source of the infestation and put an end to it—easier said than done. You’ll explore creepy environments like abandoned houses and derelict prisons, unlock new areas, keep the power running, and use cameras to track enemy movement. But don’t get too comfortable—these infestations are more than just bugs. You’ll be up against freakish monsters and twisted enemies while racing to eliminate nests before things get out of hand. Armed with your trusty extermination gear, you'll need to think fast, run when you can, and, most importantly, survive.
Each episode brings a new terrifying entity inspired by classic characters and urban legends. One minute, you could face a freaky version of Mickey Mouse, and the next, you’re up against a nightmarish character from an old saw. No two runs are the same. The randomness of item spawns, unpredictable AI, and customizable settings ensure it and keep you on your toes every time you play.
As the game progresses, you can continue to advance and obtain more skins, perks, and items for your squad. Whether you’re hoping for XP or simply want to enjoy some crazy undead evening out, Infestation: Origins is the place! With NVIDIA DLSS support, the game’s visuals look stunning without dropping a single frame, letting you soak in the eerie atmosphere while staying locked in the action.
Try Not to Become a Dinner in Sons Of The Forest
Number of players: 1-8 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: February 23, 2023 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Endnight Games
It’s time to breathe some fresh air. Sons Of The Forest offers captivating landscapes and cannibals. Sent to find a missing billionaire on an island crawling with cannibals and mutants, players are in for a wild ride.
From the moment you hit the ground, Sons of the Forest gives you complete freedom. No NPCs barking orders or mission markers telling you where to go. It’s all up to you. Want to focus on building an impenetrable base? Go for it. Prefer to scavenge and explore the island's massive open world? Grab your gear and get moving. This game hands you the tools and says, "Good luck."
The island is massive—four times bigger than The Forest—and filled with secrets. Whether you’re building a cabin or fortifying a base against cannibals, every action feels real. And when winter comes, survival gets even harder. Stock up on food or risk starving while mutants hunt for their next victim in the cold.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: February 23, 2023 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Endnight Games
It’s time to breathe some fresh air. Sons Of The Forest offers captivating landscapes and cannibals. Sent to find a missing billionaire on an island crawling with cannibals and mutants, players are in for a wild ride.
From the moment you hit the ground, Sons of the Forest gives you complete freedom. No NPCs barking orders or mission markers telling you where to go. It’s all up to you. Want to focus on building an impenetrable base? Go for it. Prefer to scavenge and explore the island's massive open world? Grab your gear and get moving. This game hands you the tools and says, "Good luck."
The island is massive—four times bigger than The Forest—and filled with secrets. Whether you’re building a cabin or fortifying a base against cannibals, every action feels real. And when winter comes, survival gets even harder. Stock up on food or risk starving while mutants hunt for their next victim in the cold.
Source: https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Sons_of_the_Forest
Speaking of mutants—this game doesn’t hold back. The enemies are relentless, some almost human, others straight-up nightmare fuel. You’ll need to defend yourself with whatever you can find: pistols, axes, stun batons—you name it. But it’s not always about brute force. Sometimes, you must sneak, hide, or run to make it out alive. And with new mechanics like 3D printing and NPC companions like Kelvin (your loyal, albeit slightly broken, deaf sidekick), you’ll have some backup when things get real. Oh, and there's Virginia—a three-legged, three-armed mutant who can wield weapons and help you in combat. Why not?
Note! For edible items, green means safe and red means to be avoided. When you discover edible items for the first time, they will have a question mark above them. If you consume or collect all of them the first time you encounter them, the next time you come across these items, they will appear green or red.
With Sons of the Forest surpassing 2 million copies sold in its first 24 hours and breaking records as the most wish-listed out of most popular multiplayer horror games on Steam, it’s clear that this is survival horror done right. Whether you’re a veteran of The Forest or new to the chaos, this game brings the action, tension, and strategy that’ll keep you hooked for hours.
Speaking of mutants—this game doesn’t hold back. The enemies are relentless, some almost human, others straight-up nightmare fuel. You’ll need to defend yourself with whatever you can find: pistols, axes, stun batons—you name it. But it’s not always about brute force. Sometimes, you must sneak, hide, or run to make it out alive. And with new mechanics like 3D printing and NPC companions like Kelvin (your loyal, albeit slightly broken, deaf sidekick), you’ll have some backup when things get real. Oh, and there's Virginia—a three-legged, three-armed mutant who can wield weapons and help you in combat. Why not?
Note! For edible items, green means safe and red means to be avoided. When you discover edible items for the first time, they will have a question mark above them. If you consume or collect all of them the first time you encounter them, the next time you come across these items, they will appear green or red.
With Sons of the Forest surpassing 2 million copies sold in its first 24 hours and breaking records as the most wish-listed out of most popular multiplayer horror games on Steam, it’s clear that this is survival horror done right. Whether you’re a veteran of The Forest or new to the chaos, this game brings the action, tension, and strategy that’ll keep you hooked for hours.
Mix Parkour and Survival in Dying Light
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Linux
Released: January 27, 2015
Developer(s): Techland
More of survival, but still as much horror - Dying Light teleports players into the chaotic heart of Harran. In this zombie-infested city, they need to master parkour, craft brutal weapons, and make every second count to survive.
Dying Light stands out with its killer parkour system. It turns the entire city into a playground, but it is better to keep children away from there. You’ll be vaulting over rooftops, zip-lining between buildings, and scrambling up walls to escape the infected. Freedom of movement is everything, especially when night hits, and the game cranks up the danger. When the sun sets, the zombies get faster, and Volatiles start hunting—forcing you to either run like hell or fight for your life.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Linux
Released: January 27, 2015
Developer(s): Techland
More of survival, but still as much horror - Dying Light teleports players into the chaotic heart of Harran. In this zombie-infested city, they need to master parkour, craft brutal weapons, and make every second count to survive.
Dying Light stands out with its killer parkour system. It turns the entire city into a playground, but it is better to keep children away from there. You’ll be vaulting over rooftops, zip-lining between buildings, and scrambling up walls to escape the infected. Freedom of movement is everything, especially when night hits, and the game cranks up the danger. When the sun sets, the zombies get faster, and Volatiles start hunting—forcing you to either run like hell or fight for your life.
Source: https://www.overclockers.ua/ua/news/games/2024-08-21/135456/
With over 100 melee weapons to craft and customize, you’ll smash zombie skulls with electrified machetes, spiked bats, and fire-enhanced hammers. But life can’t be easy, and your weapons don’t last forever. With every swing, your gear degrades, so you’ll constantly be scavenging for new parts and blueprints to stay one step ahead of the infected.
With over 20 million copies sold, Dying Light has become a gem among horror co-op games, and for good reason. If you’re after a zombie apocalypse where parkour and brutal combat are key, it’s a must-play. Squad up, gear up and get ready to survive.
With over 100 melee weapons to craft and customize, you’ll smash zombie skulls with electrified machetes, spiked bats, and fire-enhanced hammers. But life can’t be easy, and your weapons don’t last forever. With every swing, your gear degrades, so you’ll constantly be scavenging for new parts and blueprints to stay one step ahead of the infected.
With over 20 million copies sold, Dying Light has become a gem among horror co-op games, and for good reason. If you’re after a zombie apocalypse where parkour and brutal combat are key, it’s a must-play. Squad up, gear up and get ready to survive.
Try not to Scream Playing Pacify
Number of players: 1-4 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: February 22, 2019
Developer(s): Shawn Hitchcock, SKH Apps
Will you ease the ghost’s anger in Pacify? As a rookie for Paranormal Activity Helpers Inc., you're sent to investigate a funeral parlor filled with eerie mysteries, a vengeful ghost, and a ton of paranormal chaos. A vengeful ghost, by the way, is a little girl. She roams the house, switching between good and pure evil, and when she’s after you, it’s a full-on sprint for your life.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: February 22, 2019
Developer(s): Shawn Hitchcock, SKH Apps
Will you ease the ghost’s anger in Pacify? As a rookie for Paranormal Activity Helpers Inc., you're sent to investigate a funeral parlor filled with eerie mysteries, a vengeful ghost, and a ton of paranormal chaos. A vengeful ghost, by the way, is a little girl. She roams the house, switching between good and pure evil, and when she’s after you, it’s a full-on sprint for your life.
Source: https://morbidlybeautiful.com/game-review-pacify/
What makes Pacify shine is the range of game modes that keep things fresh. If you’re brave enough to go solo, expect an intense challenge where every move counts as you handle everything yourself. But the absolute chaos starts in co-op multiplayer, where you and up to four players team up, sharing the load while keeping each other alive. Survival means finding keys, dolls, and matches while dodging the ghost and working together to pacify her. And it’s not interesting when it’s simple, right? As the game progresses, she gets smarter and faster, cranking up the intensity. For those who love competition, PVP mode lets you push, sabotage, and steal from your friends as you fight for the top spot at PAH Inc.
Each of the game’s 4 missions brings fresh environments, creepy stories, and unique challenges to keep you on your toes. With random item locations and fast-paced gameplay, Pacify is the perfect mix of teamwork, tension, and terrifying moments, making it a good option out of the best horror games to play with friends at night.
What makes Pacify shine is the range of game modes that keep things fresh. If you’re brave enough to go solo, expect an intense challenge where every move counts as you handle everything yourself. But the absolute chaos starts in co-op multiplayer, where you and up to four players team up, sharing the load while keeping each other alive. Survival means finding keys, dolls, and matches while dodging the ghost and working together to pacify her. And it’s not interesting when it’s simple, right? As the game progresses, she gets smarter and faster, cranking up the intensity. For those who love competition, PVP mode lets you push, sabotage, and steal from your friends as you fight for the top spot at PAH Inc.
Each of the game’s 4 missions brings fresh environments, creepy stories, and unique challenges to keep you on your toes. With random item locations and fast-paced gameplay, Pacify is the perfect mix of teamwork, tension, and terrifying moments, making it a good option out of the best horror games to play with friends at night.
Find Your Way Out in Back to the Rooms
Number of players: 6 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: October 22, 2024
Developer(s): Studio 111
Back to the Rooms serves up horror with a side of co-op strategy. Here, a portal appears at your base, threatening to unleash horrors from the backrooms—an endless, terrifying dimension. As a multiplayer horror game, it's all about surviving the twisted, procedurally generated levels that change with each run. You’ll sprint through dark, claustrophobic hallways while the environment—and whatever’s lurking in the shadows—turns on you.
As you explore, things get tense fast. You must grab loot, collect keycards to open new levels and manage your squad’s resources. Every time you advance, the difficulty spikes. There’s no knowing what’s around the next corner. Jump scares are the least of your worries when you’ve got an ever-changing map and unpredictable enemies ramping up the intensity.
Keeping the portal from popping off means constant grinding—gathering dark energy to keep the chaos at bay while staying one step ahead of whatever freakish entity is chasing you. And like any good survival horror, splitting up could be your doom. Stick together for safety or go solo to move quicker, but either way, you’re always a few steps from disaster.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: October 22, 2024
Developer(s): Studio 111
Back to the Rooms serves up horror with a side of co-op strategy. Here, a portal appears at your base, threatening to unleash horrors from the backrooms—an endless, terrifying dimension. As a multiplayer horror game, it's all about surviving the twisted, procedurally generated levels that change with each run. You’ll sprint through dark, claustrophobic hallways while the environment—and whatever’s lurking in the shadows—turns on you.
As you explore, things get tense fast. You must grab loot, collect keycards to open new levels and manage your squad’s resources. Every time you advance, the difficulty spikes. There’s no knowing what’s around the next corner. Jump scares are the least of your worries when you’ve got an ever-changing map and unpredictable enemies ramping up the intensity.
Keeping the portal from popping off means constant grinding—gathering dark energy to keep the chaos at bay while staying one step ahead of whatever freakish entity is chasing you. And like any good survival horror, splitting up could be your doom. Stick together for safety or go solo to move quicker, but either way, you’re always a few steps from disaster.
Do Your Best to Survive in Once Human
Number of Players: Up to 80 players
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platforms: Android, iOS, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Released: July 9, 2024
Developer: Starry Studio, a subsidiary of NetEase Games
Once Human is a free-to-play survival horror game set in a post-apocalyptic world filled with supernatural and alien threats. Developed by Starry Studio, the game combines open-world exploration, resource gathering, and combat with elements of crafting and base building, making it a unique addition to the survival horror games genre.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platforms: Android, iOS, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Released: July 9, 2024
Developer: Starry Studio, a subsidiary of NetEase Games
Once Human is a free-to-play survival horror game set in a post-apocalyptic world filled with supernatural and alien threats. Developed by Starry Studio, the game combines open-world exploration, resource gathering, and combat with elements of crafting and base building, making it a unique addition to the survival horror games genre.
Source: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2139460/Once_Human/?l=ukrainian
In Once Human, players find themselves navigating a world that has been ravaged by the alien substance called Stardust. The world is now filled with mutated creatures known as Deviations. As a Meta-Human—a survivor with the power to control Stardust—you'll need to gather resources, craft weapons, and build bases to survive the hostile environment.
The open world of Once Human is full of areas to explore—from abandoned towns to dangerous wildernesses—and each is packed with resources and hidden lore. The world feels vast but not empty, as it's filled with opportunities to build homes, craft, and interact with the environment.
The core gameplay mixes survival and looter shooter mechanics. You'll gather resources to keep hunger and thirst at bay, craft weapons, and fight off monstrous enemies. It’s not just about blasting monsters either. You’ll need to build and manage your base while keeping an eye on your hunger, hydration, and sanity levels. These elements aren’t just numbers; they actively affect your gameplay—eat contaminated food, and your max HP drops, or stay too long in dangerous areas, and your sanity depletes, making everything that much harder.
In Once Human, players find themselves navigating a world that has been ravaged by the alien substance called Stardust. The world is now filled with mutated creatures known as Deviations. As a Meta-Human—a survivor with the power to control Stardust—you'll need to gather resources, craft weapons, and build bases to survive the hostile environment.
The open world of Once Human is full of areas to explore—from abandoned towns to dangerous wildernesses—and each is packed with resources and hidden lore. The world feels vast but not empty, as it's filled with opportunities to build homes, craft, and interact with the environment.
The core gameplay mixes survival and looter shooter mechanics. You'll gather resources to keep hunger and thirst at bay, craft weapons, and fight off monstrous enemies. It’s not just about blasting monsters either. You’ll need to build and manage your base while keeping an eye on your hunger, hydration, and sanity levels. These elements aren’t just numbers; they actively affect your gameplay—eat contaminated food, and your max HP drops, or stay too long in dangerous areas, and your sanity depletes, making everything that much harder.
Play with Kids in Lost Lullabies: The Orphanage Chronicles
Number of players: 1-4
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 2024 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Pugsy Studios
Deep in the fog-covered woods outside Lowell lies the ominous Lowell Orphanage, buried under twisted legends and dark secrets. This is where the chilling story of Lost Lullabies: The Orphanage Chronicles begins. The orphanage, infamous for rumored experiments and torture on children, was consumed in a mysterious fire in 1960. Fast-forward to 1980—four brave friends set out to uncover the truth, venturing into the burnt ruins to unravel the nightmares that still haunt its halls.
Multiplayer: Yes, co-op multiplayer
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: 2024 (Early Access)
Developer(s): Pugsy Studios
Deep in the fog-covered woods outside Lowell lies the ominous Lowell Orphanage, buried under twisted legends and dark secrets. This is where the chilling story of Lost Lullabies: The Orphanage Chronicles begins. The orphanage, infamous for rumored experiments and torture on children, was consumed in a mysterious fire in 1960. Fast-forward to 1980—four brave friends set out to uncover the truth, venturing into the burnt ruins to unravel the nightmares that still haunt its halls.
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/HorrorGaming/comments/1d8n12j/hello_everyone_our_new_game_lost_lullabies_the/
Each run is a fresh nightmare. The maps are procedurally generated, so every session feels unique, ramping up the tension as you and your crew scramble to find the items and clues needed to solve the orphanage’s mysteries. Armed with a mix of standard and special tools, you’ll be putting together a ghost-hunting kit on the fly. Use voice commands, search for gear, and keep your team alive as you dive deeper into the twisted history of the orphanage.
With creepy visuals, an atmospheric 1980s vibe, and all the ghostly jump scares you can handle; Lost Lullabies will have you second-guessing every move as you work to uncover the dark secrets lurking behind the orphanage’s burned walls.
Playing multiplayer horror games with friends is an experience like no other. You quickly learn who the brave and feint-of-heart folks are, and will hopefully share as many laughs as you do screams. Whether you prefer hardcore survival, non-stop combat, or something a bit out left field, Argentics hopes you’ll enjoy a game or two from our list!
Each run is a fresh nightmare. The maps are procedurally generated, so every session feels unique, ramping up the tension as you and your crew scramble to find the items and clues needed to solve the orphanage’s mysteries. Armed with a mix of standard and special tools, you’ll be putting together a ghost-hunting kit on the fly. Use voice commands, search for gear, and keep your team alive as you dive deeper into the twisted history of the orphanage.
With creepy visuals, an atmospheric 1980s vibe, and all the ghostly jump scares you can handle; Lost Lullabies will have you second-guessing every move as you work to uncover the dark secrets lurking behind the orphanage’s burned walls.
Playing multiplayer horror games with friends is an experience like no other. You quickly learn who the brave and feint-of-heart folks are, and will hopefully share as many laughs as you do screams. Whether you prefer hardcore survival, non-stop combat, or something a bit out left field, Argentics hopes you’ll enjoy a game or two from our list!
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