October is upon us, and that means it's the perfect time to embrace the spooky season with some chilling video games. If you're a proud owner of a Steam Deck, you're in luck! Here are five horror games that are perfectly suited for handheld scares:
1. Alien: Isolation
If the thought of being stalked by a relentless Xenomorph sends shivers down your spine, then Alien: Isolation is a must-play. Set after the events of the first Alien film, you step into the shoes of Amanda Ripley as she desperately tries to survive aboard a derelict space station. Expect intense stealth gameplay, nerve-wracking encounters with the iconic alien, and challenging puzzles that will test your wits as much as your nerves. The game runs exceptionally well on the Steam Deck and is often found on sale with its DLC.
2. Layers of Fear (2016)
Prepare for a descent into psychological terror with the original Layers of Fear. You take on the role of a painter battling addiction and madness as he strives to complete his masterpiece. The game masterfully uses shifting environments and unsettling imagery to reflect the protagonist's deteriorating mental state. Layers of Fear offers a truly immersive and disturbing experience that's perfect for the Steam Deck's handheld format.
3. Mouthwashing
This indie gem draws inspiration from classic PS1-era horror games, blending psychological and body horror with chilling sound design that will stick with you long after you've finished playing. Mouthwashing follows the crew of a space freighter as they encounter a horrifying situation after a disastrous asteroid collision. The game's unsettling atmosphere and compelling narrative are perfect for a long Steam Deck session.
4. From the Darkness
Unravel a chilling mystery in this atmospheric walking simulator. From the Darkness tasks you with exploring your grandfather's eerie abandoned apartment in search of a lost family photo album. The game excels at creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere, and its unique puzzle elements add to the intrigue. While the game is relatively short, it packs a punch and runs well on the Steam Deck, though you might need to rely on the on-screen keyboard.
5. Labyrinthine
Just in time for Halloween, Labyrinthine has received a fresh update with new content to keep you on the edge of your seat. This maze-based horror game offers both a story mode and an endless arcade mode, providing plenty of replay value. In the story mode, you play as Joan, a fairground worker drawn into a terrifying mystery within a labyrinth. Labyrinthine is a fantastic choice for fans of suspenseful gameplay and runs smoothly on the Steam Deck.
Ready for a Fright?
Grab your Steam Deck, dim the lights, and dive into these terrifying titles for a truly unforgettable Halloween gaming experience. Find them all on Steam.
