Survival horror

Survival horror is a subgenre of video games and horror fiction that emphasizes the survival of the protagonist as the game tries to frighten players with either horror graphics or scary ambiance. Although combat can be part of the gameplay, the player is made to feel less in control than in typical action games through limited ammunition, health, speed, and vision, or through various obstructions of the player's interaction with the game mechanics.

History

The term "survival horror" was first used for the original Resident Evil game released in 1996, which was influenced by earlier works such as Sweet Home and Alone in the Dark. These games established many conventions of the genre, including the use of limited resources, inventory management, and puzzle-solving elements.

Gameplay

Survival horror games are characterized by their emphasis on resource management and survival tactics. Players often have to manage limited supplies of ammunition and health items, and they may need to solve puzzles to progress. The games often feature a third-person perspective, although some use a first-person perspective to increase immersion.

Common Elements

• Limited Resources: Players must manage scarce resources, such as ammunition and health packs.
• Puzzle Solving: Many survival horror games include puzzles that must be solved to progress.
• Atmosphere: The games often use dark, foreboding environments and eerie sound design to create a sense of dread.
• Combat: While combat is often a part of survival horror games, it is usually designed to be challenging and stressful, with players often having to choose between fighting or fleeing.

Notable Games

• Resident Evil
• Silent Hill
• Dead Space
• The Last of Us
• Amnesia: The Dark Descent

Influence

Survival horror has influenced many other genres and has led to the creation of hybrid genres such as action horror and psychological horror. The genre has also had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring films, books, and other media.

See Also

• Horror video game
• Action-adventure game
• Psychological horror