7 of the best RPG Maker horror games you should check out
28.11.2023 - 22:57
/ destructoid.com
/ Best
RPG Maker and indie horror games have an amazing symbiotic relationship. The engine is relatively cheap and easy to use, even for those who have little experience with coding games. It also has enough flexibility to let creators create wonderful 2D adventures, either as an RPG or another genre. Horror itself also remains ripe for interesting and experimental stories that best suit a medium like gaming.
Many RPG Maker horror gems receive the recognition they deserve while others remain highly underrated. Both camps deserve recognition for their respective contributions, no matter how deeply buried the hidden gems are.
Whether you’re a newcomer or familiar with horror games in RPG Maker, here are some I think you should check out.
Both Fear and Hunger 2 and its predecessor have recently exploded in popularity due to their relentless difficulty and a rich, dark world. Both feature adventures that remain dedicated to their grim tone, but are not for the faint of heart. The sequel, however, seems to have come out on top with its expansive character roster and unique setting.
Fear and Hunger 2 is set in a world inspired by WWII Europe and follows several individuals who explore the city of Prehevil as they head toward an ominous tower. A jester-like figure guides them, stating they have three days to reach it and partake in the Termina Festival.
It’s a strong premise for a survival horror game, but Fear and Hunger 2 amplifies the genre’s limited resources and crushing atmosphere to 11. This is a brutal and horrific time that is deeply frustrating. Yet there’s magic in its relentlessness, and the charm especially shines after the fifth time losing 30 minutes of progress.
.flow is one of the most famous Yume Nikki fan games, and for good reason. It’s a haunting experience that doubles down on its inspiration’s horror elements.
Although it leans quite a bit on its far grungier atmosphere, .flow is still an enchantingly macabre experience. There’s a focus on decay that gives a stark impression that the world itself is falling apart.
It can also be a pain to run. Unlike other older RPG Maker classics, .flow doesn’t have any ports, making it hard to launch on modern computers. Most of my experience with it has been with nightmarish troubleshooting and crashes due to having hardware newer than a decade old. Developer lol has updated the game over the years, so hopefully current builds make this gem more accessible.
Ib is amongst the most popular RPG Maker horror games and for good reason. Its haunted art gallery setting is unique and is aided by a striking art style and narrative that effectively takes advantage of it.
I haven’t played Ib, but whenever I talk with anyone about the best RPG Maker horror games,