Diving into the haunting depths of “Soma” is an experience that lingers, long after the credits roll. With its blend of eerie atmospheres, deep philosophical quandaries, and nail-biting moments, “Soma” redefined what survival horror can be.
But once you’ve ventured through its underwater dystopia, where do you turn to for your next chilling adventure? Fret not, fellow horror enthusiast! We’ve crafted a list of survival horror game alternatives that capture the same spine-tingling essence.
Amnesia: The Dark Descent
Amnesia: The Dark Descent is a first-person survival horror game that shares many similarities with Soma. Developed by the same team, Frictional Games, Amnesia invites players to explore a castle while facing their darkest fears.
Step into the shoes of the protagonist, a man who awakens with amnesia, completely unaware of his past. As you venture deeper into the eerie castle, you are haunted by unsettling memories that gradually resurface, adding to the mystery and suspense. The game cleverly plays with the concept of memory, forcing you to question what is real and what is a figment of your imagination.
The atmospheric setting of Amnesia is a key component of its terrifying experience. The castle is shrouded in darkness, with flickering candlelight casting eerie shadows on the decaying walls. The sound design further immerses you in the chilling atmosphere, with creaking floorboards, distant whispers, and the haunting echoes of your own footsteps. Every step you take is filled with tension and uncertainty, making it a truly spine-tingling experience.
If you enjoyed the psychological horror and thought-provoking storyline of Soma, then Amnesia: The Dark Descent should be your next chilling adventure. Prepare yourself for a journey into the depths of darkness, where your own sanity hangs in the balance. Can you uncover the truth behind your past and survive the horrors that await?
Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs
Building on the success of Amnesia: The Dark Descent, Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs takes players on a horrifying journey set in Victorian London. Developed by The Chinese Room, this survival horror game combines atmospheric exploration with a thought-provoking narrative.
Step into the shoes of Oswald Mandus, a wealthy industrialist haunted by visions of a nightmarish machine. As you delve deeper into the sinister world of Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs, you will uncover the dark secrets that lie within the depths of Mandus’ mind.
Prepare yourself for an immersive and spine-chilling experience as you navigate through the grim and desolate streets of Victorian London. The game’s meticulous attention to detail brings this eerie setting to life, with its dimly lit alleyways, decaying buildings, and hauntingly atmospheric soundscape.
Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs is a worthy addition to any horror game collection. Prepare to be captivated, terrified, and utterly enthralled by this macabre masterpiece.
Penumbra series
Developed by Frictional Games, the Penumbra series is a trilogy of first-person survival horror games that shares a similar gameplay style and atmosphere with Soma. Players find themselves exploring dark and isolated environments while grappling with puzzles and encounters with terrifying creatures.
Each installment in the Penumbra series offers a unique and engaging storyline, with players assuming the role of Philip, a protagonist driven by a desire to uncover dark secrets. As players delve deeper into the mysterious world of Penumbra, they will encounter a wide array of challenges that test their wit and courage.
In Penumbra: Black Plague, the second installment, Philip’s journey continues as he finds himself trapped in a remote underground complex. This time, players must not only survive encounters with terrifying creatures but also uncover the truth behind the mysterious corporation that operates the facility. With improved graphics and refined gameplay mechanics, Penumbra: Black Plague delivers an even more intense and immersive experience.
With its Lovecraftian themes and psychological horror elements, the Penumbra series stands as a testament to Frictional Games’ ability to create captivating and immersive experiences. Whether you are a fan of survival horror or simply enjoy a good scare, the Penumbra series is a must-play for anyone seeking a thrilling and unforgettable gaming experience.
Layers of Fear
If you enjoy the psychological horror elements present in Soma, then Layers of Fear is a game you should definitely consider playing. Developed by Bloober Team, this first-person exploration game puts you in the shoes of a tormented painter struggling to complete his magnum opus. As you navigate through a constantly shifting mansion, you’ll encounter unsettling visions and delve into the depths of the artist’s twisted mind.
Similar to Soma, Layers of Fear submerges players into a chilling atmosphere, where suspense and psychological torment take center stage. With its stunning visuals, haunting soundtrack, and narrative-driven gameplay, Layers of Fear successfully captures the unsettling and immersive experience of Soma.
The narrative-driven gameplay in Layers of Fear is a true testament to the power of storytelling in video games. As you delve deeper into the artist’s twisted mind, you uncover fragments of his past, slowly piecing together the puzzle of his descent into madness. Each revelation brings you closer to understanding the true nature of his magnum opus, and the horrors that lie within.
Layers of Fear is not just a game, it’s an experience that will leave you questioning your own perception of reality. It’s a journey into the darkest corners of the human mind, where fear and creativity collide. So if you’re ready to face your deepest fears and explore the depths of a tormented artist’s soul, then prepare yourself for a truly unforgettable experience with Layers of Fear.
Observer
Observer, developed by Bloober Team, is a cyberpunk horror game that shares some similarities with Soma. Set in a dystopian future, players assume the role of an Observer, a detective who can hack into people’s minds to solve crimes. As you navigate through a decaying city and delve into the minds of its inhabitants, you’ll uncover disturbing secrets and face the horrors lurking within.
In Observer, just like Soma, the narrative takes center stage, delving into deep philosophical questions and themes such as identity, memory, and humanity’s relationship with technology. The dark and gritty atmosphere, combined with the unsettling gameplay mechanics, make Observer a compelling choice for fans of Soma who are looking for an immersive cyberpunk horror experience.
Dead Space series
If you’re craving another intense survival horror experience after playing Soma, then the Dead Space series should be on your list. Developed by Visceral Games, this sci-fi horror franchise plunges players into a terrifying futuristic setting, where they must battle against gruesome creatures known as Necromorphs.
Similar to Soma, Dead Space combines elements of psychological horror, intense combat, and a gripping narrative to deliver an immersive and adrenaline-pumping experience.
As engineer Isaac Clarke, players must uncover the mysteries surrounding the Necromorph outbreak while fighting for survival in the cold depths of space.
Dead Space is a worthy alternative for fans of Soma.
Alien: Isolation
Developed by Creative Assembly, Alien: Isolation offers a unique survival horror experience that captures the tension and dread present in Soma. Set fifteen years after the events of the original Alien film, players assume the role of Amanda Ripley, daughter of the iconic Ellen Ripley.
Similar to Soma, Alien: Isolation emphasizes stealth and resource management, as players must avoid the relentless pursuit of an intelligent and unpredictable xenomorph. The game’s atmospheric setting, attention to detail, and authentic recreation of the Alien universe create an experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout.
If you enjoyed the sense of vulnerability and suspense in Soma, then Alien: Isolation is a game you won’t want to miss.
Outlast series
Developed by Red Barrels, the Outlast series offers a heart-pounding survival horror experience that shares some similarities with Soma. As investigative journalist Miles Upshur, players must navigate through nightmarish environments while uncovering the dark secrets of Mount Massive Asylum.
Similar to Soma, Outlast focuses on psychological horror, intense chase sequences, and a sense of helplessness against powerful enemies.
The game’s found-footage aesthetic and atmospheric settings create an immersive and terrifying experience that will leave you questioning your sanity. If you’re looking for a survival horror game that will keep you on the edge of your seat, the Outlast series is a perfect choice.
The Evil Within series
Developed by Tango Gameworks and directed by renowned game director Shinji Mikami, The Evil Within series offers a thrilling and mind-bending survival horror experience, reminiscent of Soma. Players assume the role of detective Sebastian Castellanos, who must navigate through twisted and nightmarish realities while facing unimaginable horrors.
Similar to Soma, The Evil Within series features a gripping narrative, intense gameplay, and atmospheric environments that will keep you constantly on edge.
The game’s psychological elements, coupled with its challenging combat mechanics, result in a truly haunting and immersive experience.
If you enjoyed the psychological horror and challenging gameplay of Soma, then The Evil Within series should be on your list of survival horror game alternatives.
Conarium
Conarium, developed by Zoetrope Interactive, is a first-person adventure game that offers a Lovecraftian-inspired experience similar to Soma. Players assume the role of Frank Gilman, a scientist who awakens in an Antarctic base filled with strange technology and otherworldly architecture.
With its eerie atmosphere, cosmic horror themes, and thought-provoking narrative, Conarium captures the essence of Lovecraftian horror and is a great alternative for fans of Soma. The game’s intriguing puzzles and stunning visuals contribute to an immersive experience that will leave you questioning the nature of reality.
Until Dawn
One thrilling alternative to Soma is Until Dawn. This interactive survival horror game puts you in control of eight young friends stranded on a remote mountain during a snowstorm. As you navigate through the game, your choices will determine who lives and who dies, making every decision count. The immersive story, impressive graphics, and spine-chilling atmosphere of Until Dawn are sure to keep you engrossed for hours on end.
With its branching narrative and multiple playable characters, Until Dawn offers great replay value. Each playthrough can present different outcomes, making it exciting to go back and make alternative choices to see the varied consequences. Moreover, the game features a host of jump scares and intense moments that will have your heart pounding.
Imagine yourself in the shoes of one of the characters, Ashley, a young woman with a deep fear of the dark. As you guide her through the eerie mountain lodge, you can feel her anxiety and apprehension with every step. The creaking floorboards and flickering lights add to the tension, making you question every shadowy corner.
Until Dawn is a gripping and immersive survival horror game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its branching narrative, multiple playable characters, stunning graphics, and spine-chilling atmosphere, it offers a thrilling and memorable gaming experience. Whether you are a fan of the horror genre or simply enjoy interactive storytelling, Until Dawn is a game that should not be missed.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
For those looking for a survival horror game with a psychological twist, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is an excellent choice. This dark fantasy adventure delves into the mind of Senua, a warrior haunted by her past and battling inner demons. The game’s gripping narrative combined with its stunning visuals and superb sound design create a truly immersive experience.
As you guide Senua through her harrowing journey, you’ll encounter disturbing visions and solve challenging puzzles. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice seamlessly blends action and psychological horror, leaving players unsettled and intrigued from beginning to end. With its deep exploration of mental health issues, this game offers a unique and thought-provoking take on the survival horror genre.
In Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, players are immediately drawn into the haunting and atmospheric world of the game. The attention to detail in the visuals is truly remarkable, with every shadow and flickering light adding to the sense of unease. From the decaying ruins of ancient structures to the mist-shrouded forests, each environment is meticulously crafted to immerse players in Senua’s troubled mind.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a truly unique and captivating experience. It pushes the boundaries of what a video game can achieve in terms of storytelling and emotional impact. With its stunning visuals, superb sound design, and thought-provoking exploration of mental health, this game is a must-play for fans of the survival horror genre. Prepare to be enthralled and unsettled as you embark on Senua’s harrowing journey into the depths of her mind.
P.T. (playable teaser)
P.T., also known as “Playable Teaser,” may not be a full game, but its impact on the survival horror genre cannot be understated. This groundbreaking teaser, created by the legendary collaboration of Hideo Kojima and Guillermo del Toro, was originally intended to be a preview for the highly anticipated Silent Hills game. Despite its short length, P.T. manages to deliver an incredibly intense and unnerving experience that leaves a lasting impression on players.
As you step into the eerie world of P.T., you find yourself trapped in a looping hallway, haunted by a malevolent spirit. The game’s cleverly designed puzzles and meticulously crafted atmospheric setting work in perfect harmony to create an overwhelming sense of dread. Every step you take, every door you open, is fraught with tension and uncertainty, as you slowly unravel the mystery that engulfs this nightmarish environment.
One of the most remarkable aspects of P.T. is its ability to immerse players in a world of psychological horror. The game’s audio design, with its haunting whispers and unsettling sounds, seeps into your subconscious, heightening the feeling of unease. The meticulously detailed graphics, from the grimy textures on the walls to the flickering lights, further contribute to the sense of immersion, making you feel as if you are truly trapped in this twisted nightmare.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
The Resident Evil franchise has long been synonymous with survival horror, and Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a worthy addition to the series. Set in a dilapidated plantation mansion in the American South, this installment returns to the franchise’s roots, offering a fresh take on survival horror while still delivering the scares the series is known for.
With its first-person perspective and intense atmosphere, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard feels more immersive than ever before. The game puts you in the shoes of Ethan Winters as he searches for his missing wife, encountering grotesque creatures and solving puzzles along the way.
The game’s excellent graphics and sound design enhance the terror, making it a must-play for survival horror enthusiasts.
Alan Wake
Alan Wake is a psychological action thriller that combines elements of survival horror with a gripping narrative. Players take on the role of Alan Wake, a bestselling writer who embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind his wife’s disappearance. Set in the eerie town of Bright Falls, this game will keep you guessing until the very end.
The gameplay of Alan Wake revolves around the clever use of light, as darkness is the player’s biggest enemy. Armed with a flashlight and various firearms, players must illuminate enemies before they can be harmed. The game’s unique approach to combat and its intriguing storyline make it a standout title in the survival horror genre.
BioShock series
If you’re craving a survival horror experience that combines captivating storytelling with thought-provoking themes, look no further than the BioShock series. Although these games are often classified as first-person shooters, they incorporate elements of survival horror, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Set in dystopian worlds filled with political intrigue and moral dilemmas, the BioShock series challenges players to question their actions and face the consequences. From the underwater city of Rapture to the floating city of Columbia, each installment offers a unique setting and narrative that will keep you engaged and invested.
The Forest
For those who enjoy open-world survival horror games, The Forest is a hidden gem. In this game, you find yourself stranded on a remote island inhabited by cannibalistic mutants. As you scavenge for resources, build shelter, and craft weapons, you must also unravel the mysteries of the island and uncover its dark secrets.
The Forest offers a unique blend of survival mechanics and atmospheric horror. The game’s day and night cycle, dynamic weather, and realistic AI behavior create a sense of tension and unpredictability. Whether you choose to confront the mutants head-on or take a more stealthy approach, The Forest delivers an intense and terrifying experience.
Visage
If you’re searching for a game that will truly test your nerves, Visage is the perfect choice. Inspired by the iconic P.T., this psychological horror game throws players into a haunted house filled with supernatural occurrences and disturbing apparitions.
Visage is a slow-burn horror experience that relies on atmosphere and tension to create a sense of dread. With its intricate puzzles, detailed environments, and chilling paranormal encounters, this game will keep you on edge from start to finish. If you can handle the intense psychological horror, Visage is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Call of Cthulhu
H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror has inspired countless works, and Call of Cthulhu captures the essence of his chilling tales. In this investigative horror game, you play as Edward Pierce, a private detective tasked with unraveling the mysteries surrounding the death of an acclaimed artist and her family on Darkwater Island.
Call of Cthulhu combines elements of survival horror with RPG mechanics, allowing players to upgrade their skills and make choices that affect the outcome of the story. The game’s atmospheric visuals, unsettling ambiance, and Lovecraftian lore create an immersive experience that will leave you questioning your sanity.
Lone Survivor
Rounding off our list of survival horror game alternatives to Soma is Lone Survivor. This 2D indie horror game combines retro aesthetics with a haunting atmosphere and psychological horror elements. Players control a character known only as “You,” who navigates a post-apocalyptic world infested with grotesque creatures.
Lone Survivor’s pixel art style may seem simplistic at first glance, but it effectively contributes to the game’s nostalgic and unsettling atmosphere. The choices players make throughout the game will determine the character’s mental state, leading to multiple endings and a thought-provoking narrative.
Conclusion
These games like Soma offer a wide range of survival horror experiences, each with its own unique qualities and chilling tales to tell.
Whether you prefer psychological horror, intense action, or atmospheric exploration, there’s something on this list to satisfy your cravings for fear.
So, grab your controller, turn off the lights, and prepare to be immersed in the spine-tingling worlds of these fantastic survival horror game alternatives!
