The Art and Science of Creating Scary Video Games

TLDRLearn about the process of designing and developing horror video games, including the importance of sound design, gameplay mechanics, and immersive storytelling.

Key insights

To create a truly immersive and scary horror game, developers aim to make players feel like they are part of the game world.

Building a game engine from scratch is a time-consuming and expensive process, which is why many studios use existing engines and customize them.

Becoming a video game director requires a deep understanding of the industry, experience in various roles, and a passion for storytelling and game design.

Creators of horror games often draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including movies, books, and their own fears and experiences.

The success of a horror game relies on a balance between fear and frustration, ensuring that players remain engaged without becoming overwhelmed.

Q&A

What is the scariest video game ever?

Opinions may vary, but Silent Hill 2 is often considered one of the scariest video games due to its atmospheric horror, psychological storytelling, and terrifying monsters.

How do horror game creators come up with frightening ideas?

Horror game creators often draw inspiration from various sources, including other horror media like movies and books, personal fears and experiences, and creative brainstorming sessions with their development team.

Why are video games important?

Video games are important because they are a form of entertainment, a social network, and an art form. They provide unique and immersive experiences that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

How do you design levels in a survival horror game?

Designing levels in a survival horror game involves careful planning, considering factors such as gameplay progression, tension, pacing, and balancing the use of locked and empty rooms. It also requires collaboration between level designers, artists, and game designers.

What makes a good horror game?

A good horror game typically features a compelling story, atmospheric sound design, tense gameplay mechanics, immersive visuals, and a balance between fear and frustration. It should keep players engaged and scared while providing a satisfying experience.

Timestamped Summary

01:56Creating a horror game involves making players feel immersed and scared by making them part of the game world.

07:05Building a game engine from scratch is time-consuming and expensive, so many studios customize existing engines instead.

09:49Becoming a video game director requires extensive knowledge, experience in various roles, and a passion for storytelling and game design.

12:46Sound design is crucial in horror games, contributing to 50% of the horror experience.

13:24Silent Hill 2 is often considered one of the scariest video games due to its atmospheric horror and psychological storytelling.