Horror games are thrilling, terrifying, and sometimes downright exhausting—especially if you’re new to the genre. They horror games challenge you not only to survive the in-game threats but also to manage your own fear in real life. Whether you’re navigating a haunted mansion, escaping from monsters, or piecing together disturbing mysteries, having the right strategy can make the experience more enjoyable and less overwhelming.

Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you play horror games like a pro.

1. Start With the Right Game
   If you’re new to horror games, don’t jump straight into the scariest title you can find. Begin with games that have a good mix of tension and fun, like The Baby in Yellow or Amanda the Adventurer. Once you get used to the pacing and mechanics, you can move on to more intense titles like FNAF Help Wanted 2 or Married in Red.

2. Use Headphones for Full Immersion
   Sound design is one of the most important elements of a horror game. Wearing good headphones helps you catch subtle noises like footsteps, whispers, or distant creaks—clues that could save your life in-game. It also makes the atmosphere more intense, which can be both thrilling and terrifying.

3. Adjust the Brightness
   Too dark and you might miss important details; too bright and you lose the eerie vibe. Find a balance where you can see what’s happening without completely removing the fear factor. Many horror games let you adjust brightness in the settings—take advantage of that.

4. Take Breaks When Needed
   Horror games can be mentally exhausting. If you feel too tense, pause the game, stretch, or grab a drink. Stepping away for a few minutes helps reset your nerves so you can dive back in with a clearer head.

5. Listen Carefully to the Environment
   In horror games, your ears are just as important as your eyes. The sound of something breaking, a sudden silence, or a change in background music often signals danger. Paying attention to audio cues can help you prepare before trouble arrives.

6. Learn Enemy Patterns
   If the game has recurring enemies or monsters, study their movement patterns. Knowing when they’re likely to appear—and how they react—can give you a huge survival advantage. Games like That’s Not My Neighbor or Garten of Banban 7 reward players who observe carefully.

7. Conserve Your Resources
   Many horror games limit ammo, health packs, or batteries for your flashlight. Use them wisely. Sometimes, running or hiding is smarter than fighting. Saving your resources for critical moments can mean the difference between life and death.

8. Explore Everything
   Don’t just rush to the exit. Horror games often hide important clues, keys, or story details in side rooms and dark corners. Exploring thoroughly can unlock shortcuts, secret endings, or safer routes.

9. Embrace the Fear
   This might sound strange, but part of enjoying horror games is letting yourself feel the fear. The adrenaline rush is what makes them memorable. Lean into the atmosphere, trust the experience, and remember—it’s just a game.

10. Play With Friends
    If a game feels too intense to handle alone, invite friends to watch or join you. Shared reactions can make the scares more fun and less stressful. Plus, it’s always good to have someone there to laugh with after a big jump scare.

Horror games aren’t just about surviving monsters—they’re about managing your own reactions and making smart choices under pressure. With the right mindset and these tips, you’ll be able to explore haunted corridors, outsmart dangerous enemies, and maybe even enjoy every heart-pounding second. So grab your controller, dim the lights, and prepare to face the unknown.