Srabana Aich, Author at Rely on Horror https://www.relyonhorror.com/author/srabana/ Horror Gaming Coverage You Can Rely On Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:58:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 60659394 Top 10 Horror Games That Changed the Genre Forever https://www.relyonhorror.com/articles/top-10-horror-games-that-changed-the-genre-forever/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/articles/top-10-horror-games-that-changed-the-genre-forever/#disqus_thread Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:54:16 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115722 Our pick for the games that forever changed the genre.

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Resident Evil

Horror gaming has evolved from pixelated scares to deeply immersive experiences, pushing the boundaries of what games can do. Certain titles have not only terrified players but also revolutionized the genre, leaving a lasting impact on how horror is experienced.

Here are the top 10 horror games that forever changed the industry.

1. Resident Evil (1996)

Capcom’s Resident Evil introduced the world to survival horror as we know it today and served as the blueprint for survival horror as a subgenre. Set in the eerie Spencer Mansion, the game combined limited resources, claustrophobic environments, and monstrous enemies to create a nerve-wracking experience. Its tank controls and fixed camera angles made even the simplest movements feel tense. Resident Evil established a formula that not only defined the franchise but inspired countless horror games that followed.

Silent Hill 1

2. Silent Hill (1999)

Konami’s Silent Hill is the pinnacle of psychological horror in gaming and is effectively horror that gets in your head. Trading cheap jump scares for atmospheric dread, it delved into themes of guilt and trauma, creating a deeply unsettling experience. The town of Silent Hill, perpetually blanketed in fog, felt like a character in its own right. Its innovative use of sound design, cryptic storytelling, and disturbing visuals set a new standard for psychological horror that still resonates today.

System Shock 2

3. System Shock 2 (1999)

System Shock 2 blended survival horror with RPG elements, placing players aboard a derelict spaceship where technology had turned against humanity. Its haunting atmosphere, combined with an unsettling AI antagonist and an innovative audio log system, created a narrative-driven horror experience. It laid the groundwork for later classics like BioShock and Dead Space, proving that horror could thrive in futuristic settings.

Amnesia: The Dark Descent

4. Amnesia: The Dark Descent (2010)

Amnesia: The Dark Descent stripped players of the ability to fight, forcing them to rely on stealth and strategy to survive. The sanity mechanic, which caused hallucinations and panic when exposed to darkness or enemies, added a psychological edge to the horror. Its minimalistic approach to storytelling and deeply immersive atmosphere inspired a wave of indie horror games and revitalized the genre for modern audiences. It was also a popular game for countless streamers back in the 2010s.

Dead Space

5. Dead Space (2008)

EA’s Dead Space elevated the horror genre by introducing strategic dismemberment and immersive sound design. Set aboard the USG Ishimura, the game’s blend of sci-fi and survival horror created a chilling atmosphere of isolation. Its grotesque enemy designs and relentless pacing ensured players were never comfortable. Dead Space became a cornerstone of the sci-fi horror subgenre, influencing titles like The Callisto Protocol and Alien: Isolation.

Five Nights At Freddy's

6. Five Nights at Freddy’s (2014)

Five Nights at Freddy’s took the gaming world by storm with its simple yet terrifying premise. While managing security cameras to fend off murderous animatronics, players faced intense jump scares and an overwhelming sense of dread. The game’s deep lore and viral appeal catapulted it into pop culture, proving that small indie titles could have massive impacts. It inspired countless imitators and redefined how horror games engage with fan communities.

The Last of Us

7. The Last of Us (2013)

While not a traditional horror game, The Last of Us brought emotional depth to the genre. Its post-apocalyptic setting and infected enemies created tension, but the heart of the game was the relationship between Joel and Ellie. The narrative-driven gameplay demonstrated how horror could be used to explore human connections, setting a new benchmark for storytelling in the genre.

Outlast

8. Outlast (2013)

Outlast innovated with its found-footage aesthetic, requiring players to navigate a nightmarish asylum using only a camcorder for light. The game’s relentless pacing and grotesque imagery created a deeply immersive and terrifying experience. By combining elements of Amnesia with intense chases and shocking visuals, Outlast cemented its place as a modern horror classic.

Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly

9. Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly (2003)

Fatal Frame II introduced a unique mechanic where players used a camera to fight off spirits, blending terror with creativity. Set in a cursed Japanese village, the game’s atmosphere was steeped in folklore and dread. The tension of having to face your enemies head-on with the Camera Obscura added a layer of vulnerability that few games have matched. It became a cornerstone of Japanese horror games and influenced titles like Project Zero and Phasmophobia.

Alien: Isolation

10. Alien: Isolation (2014)

Creative Assembly’s Alien: Isolation captured the essence of Ridley Scott’s 1979 film, delivering a masterclass in tension and atmosphere. Playing as Amanda Ripley, players were hunted by a near-invincible Xenomorph that adapted to their strategies, creating an ever-present sense of dread. The game’s dedication to authenticity and its use of dynamic AI made it a standout, setting a new standard for survival horror in sci-fi settings.

These top 10 horror games didn’t just scare players — they changed the way we think about horror in gaming. Whether through innovative mechanics, groundbreaking storytelling, or atmospheric mastery, each of these titles left a lasting mark on the genre.

Which one still keeps you up at night? Let us know your picks in the comments.

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Silent Hill f Resurfaces 2 Years Later With South Korean Rating https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/silent-hill-f-resurfaces-2-years-later-with-south-korean-rating/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/silent-hill-f-resurfaces-2-years-later-with-south-korean-rating/#disqus_thread Sun, 26 Jan 2025 16:20:12 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115693 This could suggest the game is further along in development than expected.

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Silent Hill f

After over two years of radio silence, Silent Hill f has finally reappeared, and fans have reason to be cautiously optimistic. The highly anticipated game, which is set in 1960s Japan and penned by Higurashi When They Cry creator Ryukishi07, was recently rated by South Korea’s Game Rating and Administration Committee. This development could suggest the game is further along in development than many expected.

Silent Hill f was initially unveiled in October 2022 during Konami’s Silent Hill showcase. However, little has been revealed about the game since then beyond its haunting reveal trailer — no release window, no platform confirmations, and certainly no follow-ups. That is, until now.

The South Korean rating for the game was applied for on December 4th, 2024, and officially issued on December 12th. Unsurprisingly, the game has been deemed unsuitable for children, in line with the series’ notorious penchant for psychological horror and graphic content.

While the rating doesn’t confirm a release date, it does suggest the game is alive and progressing behind the scenes — a relief for fans who feared the worst after years of silence. Whether this means Silent Hill f is on the brink of release or still months (or years) away remains to be seen.

Interestingly, this isn’t the only game to pop up in South Korea’s ratings list. Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 also secured its rating in late December. Unlike Silent Hill f, the action RPG has a confirmed release window of the first half of 2025, though its journey has been plagued by delays, including a recent pushback from fall 2024.

The reappearance of Silent Hill f on the radar has reignited intrigue for this enigmatic chapter in the Silent Hill franchise. With its unique historical setting and a script crafted by one of Japan’s most renowned visual novel writers, anticipation is mounting. Let’s hope this new rating is the first of many updates to come, and as always, continue to rely on us for coverage of all things Silent Hill.

[Source]

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Resident Evil 4: 20 Years of Redefining Survival Horror https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/resident-evil-4-20-years-of-redefining-survival-horror/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/resident-evil-4-20-years-of-redefining-survival-horror/#disqus_thread Mon, 13 Jan 2025 18:24:50 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115669 It's time to line up for bingo again.

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Resident Evil 4

Twenty years ago, on January 11th, 2005, Capcom released Resident Evil 4, a game that would forever change the landscape of horror gaming. Originally a Nintendo GameCube exclusive, this iconic entry in the Resident Evil franchise didn’t just elevate the series, it redefined an entire genre.

Two decades later, the gaming world still holds Leon S. Kennedy’s harrowing adventure in rural Spain as a gold standard of design, storytelling, and innovation.

The magic of Resident Evil 4 lies in its revolutionary approach to gameplay. At a time when third-person shooters were still finding their footing, Capcom introduced a groundbreaking over-the-shoulder perspective that transformed the player experience. Gone were the fixed camera angles of its predecessors. In their place was a system that allowed for precise aiming and seamless exploration.

This design choice not only modernized Resident Evil but also laid the groundwork for future classics like Gears of War and Dead Space.

Resident Evil 4

But it wasn’t just the mechanics that made Resident Evil 4 unforgettable. Leon Kennedy, cool yet relatable, was the perfect protagonist to guide players through the game’s eerie atmosphere. The desolate Spanish countryside, populated by menacing villagers and grotesque creatures, became a character in its own right — equal parts haunting and captivating.

Add in memorable villains, like the unsettling Ramon Salazar, and relentless boss battles, and it’s easy to see why Resident Evil 4 earned its legendary status.

Of course, the game’s impact wasn’t without controversy. Its shift toward action-heavy gameplay, while praised, also marked a departure from the series’ survival horror roots. This change influenced subsequent titles like the divisive Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil 6, leading to a brief decline in the franchise’s critical acclaim. Still, Resident Evil 4’s legacy as a masterpiece remains unshaken.

In 2023, Capcom honored the original with a stellar remake, proving that Leon’s tale is as compelling now as it was two decades ago. Yet, even as the remake garners praise, the 2005 version retains its own irreplaceable charm.

For both longtime fans and newcomers, Resident Evil 4, whether in its original or remade form, is a testament to the enduring power of bold and innovative game design.

[Source]

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George A. Romero’s Resident Evil Hits Digital and On Demand Jan. 7th https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/george-a-romeros-resident-evil-what-could-have-been/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/george-a-romeros-resident-evil-what-could-have-been/#disqus_thread Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:38:49 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115629 New doc explores what could have been.

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Resident Evil

Horror fans, mark your calendars: George A. Romero’s Resident Evil, a riveting investigative documentary, is set to hit Digital and On Demand on January 7, 2025, courtesy of Uncork’d Entertainment. Directed by Brandon Salisbury, this film delves into one of Hollywood’s most tantalizing “what if” stories, exploring the unmade collaboration between horror maestro George A. Romero and the iconic Resident Evil video game franchise.

In 1998, Constantin Film sought to bring Resident Evil to the silver screen, tapping Romero — the visionary behind the modern zombie genre — to adapt the project. Despite the seemingly perfect match between Resident Evil’s survival horror roots and Romero’s cinematic expertise, the project never materialized. For decades, the story behind this unrealized masterpiece remained shrouded in mystery, until now.

“George Romero gave birth to modern horror, the modern zombie, and ultimately Resident Evil,” says Salisbury. “I am honored to bring fans the untold story of his most important unmade project, to celebrate the legacy of the man who inspired me to pursue filmmaking as a career. I hope fans enjoy this ultimate experience in survival horror.”

Resident Evil

Through a mix of archival footage, newly uncovered documents, and interviews with key insiders, Salisbury crafts an engaging narrative that revisits the creative vision and roadblocks behind Romero’s Resident Evil. Taking cues from genre-defining documentaries like Jodorowsky’s Dune, Salisbury weaves a tale showcasing the passion and ambition behind the unproduced adaptation.

According to Keith Leopard, President of Uncork’d Entertainment:

Uncork’d is honored to bring George A. Romero’s Resident Evil to fans who have long awaited the untold story behind this legendary, unmade project. This documentary pays homage to Romero’s incredible vision and the power of storytelling that transcends what could have been.

Whether you’re a fan of George Romero, Resident Evil, or the art of filmmaking, this documentary promises to be an unforgettable exploration of creativity, ambition, and the enduring legacy of all things Resident Evil. As a longtime fan (and an old-school gamer remembering Romero’s cameo in Call of Duty: Black Ops) I am excited for this documentary’s release.

You can watch the brand-new trailer below, and leave us your comments in the comments section.

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The Lord of the Rings as a Horror Game is Worth Exploring https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/the-lord-of-the-rings-as-a-horror-game-is-worth-exploring/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/the-lord-of-the-rings-as-a-horror-game-is-worth-exploring/#disqus_thread Mon, 30 Dec 2024 18:41:51 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115623 Take my money, right now.

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The Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings is a tale of stark contrasts — light against dark, hope against despair, and camaraderie against isolation. While its themes of friendship and heroism often take center stage, the underlying darkness of Middle-earth has always loomed large. This duality is what makes The Lord of the Rings not just a timeless epic, but also a strong contender for adaptation into the horror gaming genre.

The series already holds all the ingredients for a compelling horror game, including its oppressive atmosphere, its iconic characters, and the ever-present sense of peril. From the foreboding aura of Mordor to the dread of Shelob’s Lair, Middle-earth is teeming with potential for a game that could rival titles like Amnesia, Alien: Isolation, and Silent Hill 2.

Darkness seeps into The Lord of the Rings from the moment Frodo and Sam leave the Shire. Sauron’s influence spreads like a shadow across the land, creating an air of tension that would lend itself perfectly to horror. A game set in this world wouldn’t need to rely on cheap jump scares.

The Nazgûl, or Ringwraiths, are tailor-made for horror. Their spectral forms, eerie whispers, and relentless pursuit could make them unforgettable antagonists. And who could forget the spine-chilling moment when Frodo encounters Shelob in her lair? These sequences already carry a weight of terror that a game could amplify, plunging players into the heart of Tolkien’s darker visions.

Why The Lord of the Rings' Monsters Were So Scary

Beyond physical threats, The Lord of the Rings could tap into the psychological aspects of horror. The One Ring itself embodies a corrupting force, weighing down the bearer with paranoia and despair. Drawing inspiration from games like Eternal Darkness, a Lord of the Rings horror game could incorporate mechanics that mirror the Ring’s psychological toll.

The concept of a Lord of the Rings horror game isn’t just fan speculation. Mateusz Lenart, the director of the Silent Hill 2 remake, has expressed interest in creating a fantasy horror RPG inspired by Tolkien’s work. According to Lenart, this dream project has even been pitched. With Lenart’s expertise in crafting atmospheric and psychological horror, this could be the fresh take the franchise needs to regain its footing in the gaming world after failures such as The Lord of the Rings: Gollum.

Whether or not this project comes to fruition, one thing is clear: The Lord of the Rings has the potential to be as terrifying as it is heroic. A horror game set in Middle-earth would be a bold and exciting step forward, telling us that Tolkien’s world certainly has continued potential for storytelling possibilities.

You can view the interview with Lenart below and let us know what you think about The Lord of the Rings as a horror game.

[Source]

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Silent Hill 2 Remake Remixes the OG in Fantastical Ways https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/silent-hill-2-remake-remixes-the-og-in-fantastical-ways/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/silent-hill-2-remake-remixes-the-og-in-fantastical-ways/#disqus_thread Thu, 26 Dec 2024 16:06:38 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115614 A masterful reimagining.

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Silent Hill 2Bloober Team, known for games like Observer and The Medium, has often struggled to deliver satisfying conclusions to their ambitious narratives. However, their remake of Silent Hill 2 defied expectations, staying faithful to the iconic original while introducing subtle changes that reinvigorated its haunting atmosphere.

By preserving the story and unsettling ambiance, the remake captured the essence of a game that lingers in players’ memories long after the final credits roll.

silent hill 2Set in Silent Hill’s fog-drenched nightmare-scape, the remake expands the original’s scope, making the town feel more tangible. Familiar locations are now larger, and new spaces — such as abandoned shops — are accessible, enhancing the player’s immersion. Players can smash windows, climb inside, and scavenge, adding an interactive layer to the environment.

Puzzles in the remake retain recognizable elements — coins and music boxes, for example — but their solutions deviate, creating a disorienting effect. This deliberate shift parallels protagonist James’s experience, as the once-familiar town feels warped and obscured, its details cloaked in fog.

The most significant improvement for lies in the combat system, which has been overhauled to feel fluid and engaging. James can now dodge attacks, a feature that modernizes gameplay without overcomplicating it with gimmicky mechanics like parrying.

silent hill 2

Enemies, including the mannequin-like creatures, show increased intelligence, ambushing players or scurrying away to hide, adding tension and unpredictability to encounters. These creatures, often found lurking under furniture or around corners, contribute to the horror atmosphere while delivering genuine scares.

While there were initial concerns that modernizing Silent Hill 2 might strip away its charm, the remake skillfully balances reverence for the original with thoughtful updates. The voice acting, a notorious weak point in the 2001 release, is now performed by seasoned professionals, allowing the game’s script to shine. Character interactions retain their surreal, Lynchian quality, but actual direction replaces the stilted delivery of the past.

Silent Hill 2 Remake Wikipedia Page Locked After Fans Tried to Change ReviewsBloober Team’s remake feels like an extended remix of a beloved classic, carefully reconstructed to preserve its emotional impact while surprising even longtime fans.

How have you enjoyed the remake of this landmark title in survival horror? Let us know in the comments and continue to rely on us for continued coverage on all things Silent Hill.

[Source]

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Together in the Dark: The Top Ten Couples in Horror Games https://www.relyonhorror.com/articles/together-in-the-dark-the-top-ten-couples-in-horror-games/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/articles/together-in-the-dark-the-top-ten-couples-in-horror-games/#disqus_thread Fri, 20 Dec 2024 17:50:10 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115592 The heart of horror.

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From surviving apocalyptic nightmares to confronting the unknown, these horror couples prove love can thrive even in the darkest corners of horror and bone-chilling scenarios.

Many of these pairings are picks from some of our favorite franchises at Rely. Read on to find our picks, in no particular order, for the top ten couples in horror games, including married couples, non-romantic pairings, and more.

horror couples

1. Leon Kennedy and Ada Wong (Resident Evil Series)

A tale as old as time brings the idealistic cop and the enigmatic spy together straight out of an adage to old film noir plotlines. Leon and Ada’s relationship is defined by unspoken truths and fleeting moments of connection. Ada’s double-crosses and Leon’s unyielding trust create a bittersweet dynamic that keeps fans rooting for them, even as they remain worlds apart. Their chemistry is electric, set against the backdrop of zombie outbreaks and bioterrorism, with Capcom having confirmed that at some point, Ada and Leon had gotten together only to break apart. It remains to be seen whether they will unite in the end as.

horror couples

2. Ellie and Dina (The Last of Us Part II)

Ellie and Dina represent a tender, realistic depiction of love amidst chaos. Their bond evolves through moments of levity and heartbreak, from sharing jokes in Jackson to grappling with loss on their harrowing journey. Dina’s unwavering support and Ellie’s fierce devotion highlight a love tested by the horrors of a post-pandemic world. With the loss of Joel in the second entry to the series, Ellie and Dina’s bond strengthens, allowing Ellie to cope with the loss of a father figure.

horror couples

3. James and Mary Sunderland (Silent Hill 2)

Arguably one of the most tragic couples in horror gaming, James and Mary’s story delves deep into grief, guilt, and redemption. Mary’s illness and James’ descent into Silent Hill’s foggy nightmare reveal layers of their fractured relationship. The haunting question of what love endures — and what it cannot — lingers long after the credits roll. This couple is one of my personal favorites, as it isn’t your typical love story given the twist many of now know and the multiple endings affecting James’ psyche at the end of the game in direct correlation to Mary.

horror couples

4. Isaac Clarke and Nicole Brennan (Dead Space Series)

Isaac’s desperate search for Nicole aboard the USG Ishimura is one of gaming’s most heartbreaking narratives. The couple’s love is overshadowed by the grim reality of Necromorph horrors, culminating in devastating revelations. Isaac’s hallucinations of Nicole underscore the lengths one will go for love — even when it’s a ghost of what it once was. This is one pairing which I felt was better portrayed during the original series as compared to the recent Dead Space Remake.

horror couples

5. Heather Mason and Harry Mason (Silent Hill 3)

While not a romantic couple, the bond between Heather and her adoptive father, Harry, is a cornerstone of Silent Hill 3. Harry’s love drives him to protect Heather from the cult’s clutches, and his absence is deeply felt throughout her journey. Their relationship is a poignant reminder of familial love’s enduring strength against unimaginable terror. Theirs is a selfless love, one that drives a father to sacrifice for his child, as compared to the almost obsessive love between couples in other entries of the Silent Hill series. You know what I mean.

Who is Myra Hanson? (The Evil Within 2) - YouTube

6. Sebastian Castellanos and Myra Hanson (The Evil Within Series)

Sebastian and Myra’s story is a gripping tale of love, loss, and redemption. Their marriage falters under the weight of their daughter’s disappearance, but their shared determination to uncover the truth ultimately reunites them. Myra’s role in the STEM system adds a layer of complexity, as the couple battles both external horrors and their fractured history. This is a couple I would have loved to have seen more of as I felt TEW2 was a bit anti-climactic, but to each their own. Now that Shinji Mikami has moved on from the series, I suppose we’ll forever be hoping.

Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine runs a Horror Gauntlet | SpaceBattles

7. Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine (Resident Evil Series)

Partners in survival, Chris and Jill’s camaraderie and mutual respect have fueled countless Resident Evil missions. While their relationship is more implied than explicit, their unwavering loyalty to each other — from the Spencer Mansion to global bioterrorism crises — cements them as one of horror gaming’s most iconic duos. This was well exemplified in Resident Evil 5, where Chris makes numerous sacrifices to find the location of Jill, his lost partner, only to save her from the dastardly clutches of a textbook comic book villain Albert Wesker.

On Writing - Alan Wake and Self Doubt - Gamesline

8. Alan and Alice Wake (Alan Wake)

Alan’s quest to rescue his wife Alice from the darkness enveloping Bright Falls is a deeply personal journey. Their relationship, strained by Alan’s career struggles, becomes the emotional anchor of the game. Alice’s faith in Alan and his determination to save her highlight the power of love to illuminate even the darkest paths. Out of all the couples on this page, these two have to be my absolute favorite. Alan’s journey is built on his love for Alice, and though Alan Wake’s American Nightmare was effectively retconned by the recent Alan Wake 2, the ending to that game is still memorable to me today. Goodbye, Mr. Scratch…

Why Resident Evil's Ethan and Mia Never Had a Shot at Becoming Legacy Characters

9. Ethan and Mia Winters (Resident Evil 7: Biohazard & Resident Evil Village)

The Winters’ relationship is a rollercoaster of love and betrayal. Ethan’s search for Mia in RE7 unveils her dark secrets, but their reunion and shared fight for survival showcase the resilience of their bond. In RE Village, their love — and its ultimate sacrifice — drives Ethan’s journey, making their story one of tragedy and heroism. That being said, these two definitely aren’t up there for me personally. I have several questions, and felt Ethan’s death could have been avoided. Mia’s involvement with the antagonists is also questionable, but once again, these questions were likely meant to go unanswered. They’re definitely one of the more subversive horror couples on this list.

Is no-one going to mention that Travis Grady is a mad man? : r/silenthill

10. Travis Grady and Alessa Gillespie (Silent Hill: Origins)

A unique connection forms between truck driver Travis and Alessa, the tortured girl at Silent Hill’s heart. While not a conventional couple, their bond — rooted in compassion and shared pain — drives the narrative. Travis’s willingness to face his own demons to help Alessa highlights the transformative power of empathy. You’ll notice they’re not the first nor the last pair to grace the Silent Hill series, as much of the themes of the series are deeply-rooted in the dynamics between different duos.

Love in horror games often transcends traditional romantic constructs, delving into themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and redemption. The characters and relationships in this genre serve as reminders that even in the darkest of times, connection and compassion can shine through. Whether romantic or platonic, these stories show us that love can be the ultimate survivor in the end.

Please share your thoughts on our picks and your own in the comments section!

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Dream Cage: An Unique Take on Sleep Paralysis in Indie Horror https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/dream-cage-an-unique-take-on-sleep-paralysis-in-indie-horror/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/dream-cage-an-unique-take-on-sleep-paralysis-in-indie-horror/#disqus_thread Fri, 20 Dec 2024 16:49:19 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115602 I'm paralyzed with fear.

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Dream Cage

The indie horror game Dream Cage, developed by a lone Polish dev, is set to make waves in the gaming community with its unique focus on sleep paralysis, a condition that blurs the lines between the real and the supernatural.

Scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2025, this PC-exclusive title places players in the shoes of a protagonist grappling with the terrifying phenomenon. Developed with input from individuals who have experienced sleep paralysis firsthand, Dream Cage hopes to deliver an authentic exploration of this condition through a horror lens.

The horror genre thrives on innovation, particularly within the indie scene, where developers often experiment with unconventional themes. Games like Mouthwashing, recently reviewed by us and celebrated for its distinct visual storytelling, have demonstrated the genre’s capacity for creative expression.

Dream Cage follows in these footsteps, blending psychological horror with supernatural elements to craft a narrative-driven experience. Players face supernatural anomalies across five days while unraveling the mystery of the protagonist’s affliction. This structure is reminiscent of the night-by-night progression in the ever popular Five Nights at Freddy’s.

Dream Cage

Game Features

  • Five unique demons will be haunting you, each uniquely tailored and animated.

  • Experience 5 nights of sleep paralysis based on true stories.

  • Your microphone captures every sound—can you survive and solve the mystery?

  • Find 25+ anomalies to uncover the origins of sleep paralysis.

  • Three endings, but only one reveals the ultimate truth.

  • Memory lapses will cause distraction—find pills to restore proper functioning.

  • Face random hauntings during your search for anomalies—can you stay on track?

Exploration also plays a key role, with players scouring the protagonist’s apartment for clues about his condition and the origins of the otherworldly beings. This intimate, single-location setting draws comparisons to Silent Hill 4: The Room, emphasizing atmosphere and psychological depth. With three possible endings, Dream Cage offers replayability while encouraging players to piece together its intricate narrative.

Slated for release in 2025, Dream Cage is currently available to wishlist on Steam. You can view the new trailer below and let us know what you think in the comments.

[Source]

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Resident Evil and the Franchise’s Future in 2025 https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/resident-evil-and-the-franchises-future-in-2025/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/resident-evil-and-the-franchises-future-in-2025/#disqus_thread Wed, 18 Dec 2024 15:55:04 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115587 There can never be enough Resident Evil!

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Resident Evil 9

The wait for the next Resident Evil game has been lengthy, but Capcom isn’t leaving fans completely in the dark. While it’s been three years since Resident Evil: Village hit the shelves, rumors and teases have kept the community buzzing. Capcom has remained tight-lipped about Resident Evil 9, but a handful of confirmed details and upcoming content hint at a bright future for the franchise.

One of the biggest official updates came during Capcom Next Summer 2024, where Resident Evil 7 director Koshi Nakanishi was confirmed to be at the helm of the next installment. Though Nakanishi couldn’t share specifics, his involvement has generated excitement among fans, given his history of delivering some of the franchise’s most acclaimed titles.

This includes being credited as a designer on RE5 and the director of The Mercenaries 3D, RE: Revelations and RE7: Biohazard. His return likely shows Capcom’s commitment to innovation and quality for the series’ next chapter.

Resident Evil 9

While fans eagerly await more news on the next entry, the rumor mill has gone into overdrive. Unconfirmed reports suggest everything from the return of fan-favorite characters like Jill Valentine and Leon Kennedy to deeper explorations of the enigmatic Connections. Still, fans should approach these leaks with caution until Capcom makes an official announcement.

Even with the game’s silence, the franchise isn’t fading from the spotlight. January 2025 will see the release of George A. Romero’s Resident Evil, a documentary delving into the late director’s unrealized vision for a live-action adaptation of the series. Known for classics like Night of the Living Dead, Romero’s approach to the franchise could have been a game-changer for the zombie genre.

This documentary, narrated by the original Wesker voice actor Pablo Kuntz, is set to provide insights into a project that never came to fruition.

Beyond that, the year of 2024 has been packed with speculation about remakes of Zero and Code: Veronica. While these projects continue to remain unconfirmed, their persistent presence in online discussions suggests Capcom may have more surprises in store for fans.

Resident Evil

The long wait for Resident Evil 9 may feel agonizing, but history shows that Capcom’s careful approach to development often pays off. The extra time could mean a more polished, ambitious installment — one that builds on the series’ legacy of blending terror, tension, and providing landmark horror entries. With an experienced director at the helm and plenty of buzz surrounding the franchise, 2025 might just be the year Resident Evil takes center stage once again.

Fans, including all of us at Rely, should exercise patience. Good things are brewing in the world of survival horror. The scares, mysteries, and iconic characters we love are bound to make a return, bigger and better than ever. As always, you can rely on us for coverage on all things horror, and we look forward to what’s in store in the new year.

[Source]

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NEDRA Brings Survival Horror to the Frozen Void https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/nedra-brings-survival-horror-to-the-frozen-void/ https://www.relyonhorror.com/latest-news/nedra-brings-survival-horror-to-the-frozen-void/#disqus_thread Mon, 16 Dec 2024 18:45:11 +0000 https://www.relyonhorror.com/?p=115575 The weather outside is frightful...

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NEDRA

In the icy heart of Antarctica, where the unforgiving cold is both a setting and a foe, NEDRA is poised as a new entry in survival horror. Developed by solo developer Davit Andreasyan, the game blends the isolation of a Soviet-era research station with the cosmic dread of Lovecraftian terror.

Players step into the boots of Arthur, an explorer tasked with uncovering the mystery behind the disappearance of an entire Antarctic expedition. But the station is no ordinary ruin — it’s haunted by Frostwalkers, sinister entities that hunt by detecting body heat. Arthur’s survival hinges on a delicate balance: lowering his body temperature to near-hypothermic levels to evade these predators while ensuring he doesn’t succumb to the cold.

NEDRA

Drinking an iodine-alcohol mixture restores warmth but risks drawing the creatures closer. This dynamic forces players to walk a razor-thin line between safety and exposure, survival and sacrifice.

Exploration is key to survival. Scattered throughout the station are scarce resources — ammunition, tools, and vital supplies — that Arthur must scavenge to stay alive. But NEDRA offers more than pulse-pounding stealth and combat. Beneath the surface lies a haunting narrative of resilience and truth, where survival often conflicts with uncovering the station’s dark, ancient secrets.

Set against a backdrop of frostbitten desolation, NEDRA delivers a harrowing experience where every decision carries weight. As Arthur ventures deeper into this labyrinth of frozen fear, players must confront both external horrors and the harsh realities of survival.

NEDRA

Key Features

  • Immersive Atmosphere: A carefully crafted world that blends Soviet-era design with a haunting, Lovecraftian atmosphere.
  • Intense Horror Gameplay: Carefully balance intense combat with strategic stealth to survive nightmarish creatures and uncover the hidden truths of the station.
  • Narrative Depth: A story that challenges your perception of humanity, morality and the unknown, as you uncover dark conspiracies and ancient secrets.
  • Dive into a world where every shadow hides a threat and every sound signals danger.
  • The story offers three distinct endings.

You can watch the new trailer below and wishlist the game on Steam as well as keep up to date with the developer on X.

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