Games to Play: Horror Multiplayer
If you’ve spent countless nights immersed in the chilling escapades of Phasmophobia, you’re likely on the lookout for similar ghost-hunting thrills. The surge of horror co-op games on Steam can be overwhelming, with a multitude of tags to navigate. To simplify your quest for a new haunt, we’ve compiled a list of the best games akin to Phasmophobia. While not all of them mirror the original directly, these experiences aim to evoke the same exhilarating terror you’ve come to love in supernatural encounters with friends. So, during breaks from Phasmophobia updates, explore these seven co-op horror games to recreate those intense moments when your squad huddles together in the dark, urging each other to stay quiet. Get ready for more chilling game nights!
Ghost Exorcism Inc. is a cooperative ghost-hunting game that sets players on a mission to exorcise ghosts as part of a business venture. Distinct from Phasmophobia, this game accommodates a group of six players, and the objective is not only to identify ghosts but also to pacify and eliminate them. The game introduces an interesting Exorcism Book mechanic, requiring players to read a passage from the book without interruptions to successfully exorcise an entity. This unique feature adds a humorous touch to the gameplay.
Forewarned, another game in the same vein, offers a co-op ghost hunting experience. It shares similarities with Phasmophobia, placing players in confined spaces with tools for solving mysteries. However, in Forewarned, the focus shifts to exploring ruins, searching for mummies, and collecting treasure instead of traditional ghosts. The game features procedurally generated maps, adding replay value, and introduces enemies that mimic the appearance of players, creating a suspenseful atmosphere. Although still in Steam Early Access, Forewarned has received regular updates since its launch.
In Silence is an asymmetrical horror game that pits one player against a group of six. The game provides two modes, with one player taking on the role of a monster and the others attempting to escape. While the monster’s quick movements make it challenging to control, the game’s voice mechanics add an engaging element as the creature navigates with hypersensitive hearing. In Silence offers a unique twist to the co-op ghost hunting genre, providing a fresh and entertaining experience.
Ghost Exile is a multiplayer horror game that draws inspiration from Phasmophobia and Ghost Exorcism Inc. It involves investigation and exorcism duties, closely resembling Phasmophobia in terms of assets and gameplay. Ghost Exile distinguishes itself with more frequent and intense ghost events, reducing downtime. The game keeps players engaged by forcing them to confront scenarios that would typically be avoidable in Phasmophobia. Ghost Exile is available on PC via Steam.
Devour challenges a group of four players to face the aggressive demon Azazel. The game features longer sessions compared to Phasmophobia, with players navigating in the dark to find ritual items. Devour maintains freshness through random item spawns, map changes, and the emergence of other spooky creatures. The intensity escalates as the group scrambles to escape from possessed cultists. Devour is available on PC and Mac through Steam and is part of a series with The Watchers.
Midnight Ghost Hunt deviates from the standard co-op ghost hunting format with a four-versus-four setup. The game offers a supernatural game of hide-and-seek, dividing players into teams of ghosts and hunters. While it leans more towards action and combat, Midnight Ghost Hunt still provides thrilling moments as players navigate through a spooky environment. The power dynamics add a unique twist, creating adrenaline-pumping experiences. The game is available on PC via Steam
Occult is a game that focuses more on the hunt portion, akin to Devour. Players are aware of the danger lurking in Occult, and the horror elements are more in-your-face, tied to puzzle-solving with friends. While it may not strictly align with the ghost hunting theme, Occult offers a co-op horror experience centered around intense puzzle-solving scenarios. Occult is available on Steam for PC.
The Blackout Club predates Phasmophobia and features procedurally generated missions, four-player co-op, and a unique gimmick. The game introduces a supernatural stalker called “The Shape,” visible only with closed eyes. Players must navigate between open and closed eyes to survive encounters with both paranormal and normal dangers. The Blackout Club presents a fascinating story set in a haunted suburban neighborhood, offering a blend of horror and mystery. Although initially based on evolving horror, the game has transitioned to a more story-driven experience. The base game is recommended, with additional cosmetic DLC available.