Evolution of horror game play and impact on player experience
Wang, Yixuan (2025)
Kandidaatintyö
2025
School of Engineering Science, Tietotekniikka
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi-fe2025021812782
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi-fe2025021812782
Tiivistelmä
Horror games have been a mainstay of the gaming industry for decades, evolving from simple pixel-based experiences to complex immersive narratives enhanced by virtual reality. This study aims to analyze the evolution of horror games and understand the impact of various game design elements on the player experience.
How has the horror game genre evolved over time? What game design elements contribute to the creation of impactful horror experiences? This paper attempts to explore the different stages of horror game development through a systematic literature review and player feedback analysis.
The results show that horror games have undergone a significant transformation to become more diverse and immersive as technology has advanced. Game mechanics such as limited resources, environmental narratives, and unpredictable threats play a vital role in maintaining tension and fear. Removing these elements or oversimplifying game mechanics can negatively affect the player experience and reduce the expected horror effect.
How has the horror game genre evolved over time? What game design elements contribute to the creation of impactful horror experiences? This paper attempts to explore the different stages of horror game development through a systematic literature review and player feedback analysis.
The results show that horror games have undergone a significant transformation to become more diverse and immersive as technology has advanced. Game mechanics such as limited resources, environmental narratives, and unpredictable threats play a vital role in maintaining tension and fear. Removing these elements or oversimplifying game mechanics can negatively affect the player experience and reduce the expected horror effect.