Over the years, the horror gaming genre has witnessed significant transformation. What began as simple text-based adventures evolved into fixed-camera survival horror and eventually into third-person action-packed games, with numerous variations along the way. This ongoing evolution has somewhat broadened the definition of a horror game. However, it typically centers on using creepy settings, chilling soundscapes, and unsettling creatures to terrify players.
A particularly interesting trend in recent years is the rise of the “cute” horror game, an intriguing subgenre that’s gaining traction. While these games maintain the creepy visuals and tense soundtracks typical of horror games, they sport an art style that contrasts sharply with the usual grim themes. The characters often appear cute and the lighting vibrant, creating a jarring yet delightful clash with the eerie atmosphere. Looking at the future, 2025 promises to be a notable year for fans of these charmingly spooky games.
One game capturing attention is “The Midnight Walk,” scheduled to debut on May 8, 2025. This first-person horror adventure plunges players into a world reminiscent of Tim Burton’s signature style, complete with adorably terrifying monsters. Crafted by some of the creative minds behind “Lost in Random” from 2021, every detail, from environments to creatures, was modeled in clay, contributing to the game’s distinctive stop-motion animation. Shown during Sony’s February State of Play, the game left a memorable mark with its unique aesthetic. Additionally, for those seeking an even more immersive experience, “The Midnight Walk” will also be released in VR, accessible on PlayStation 5 and PC.
Another anticipated release is “Little Nightmares 3,” a series that laid the groundwork for the “cute” horror subgenre. Although the original developers, Tarsier Studios, parted ways with the series following their acquisition by Embracer Group in 2021, the series continues under a new team. Bandai Namco, the publisher, entrusted the project’s future to Supermassive Games. Known for their work on “Until Dawn” and “Dark Pictures Anthology,” Supermassive announced “Little Nightmares 3” during the Gamescom Opening Night Live in 2023, unveiling the exciting new feature of a two-player co-op, a first for the series. Initially aimed for a 2024 release, the game’s arrival was postponed to 2025, but the glimpses shared so far suggest it is progressing well under Supermassive’s direction.
Interestingly, Tarsier Studios is creating a spiritual successor to their earlier series, named “Reanimal.” This new venture is set to feature two-player co-op as well and offers a visual style very much in line with their previous works, albeit a tad darker. Officially unveiled in August 2024, it’s unlikely “Reanimal” will launch this year. Nevertheless, with “The Midnight Walk” and “Little Nightmares 3” on the horizon, fans of cute horror games have plenty to look forward to in 2025.
It’s clear that the cute horror genre is carving out its own niche in the gaming world, blending elements of fear and charm into a unique narrative experience. As the industry embraces these whimsical nightmares, the year ahead is set to thrill and amuse in equal measure.
