Survival-Horror
Survival-Horror is a sub-genre within video games that combines elements of Horror Games, Action-Adventure, and often Survival Games. This genre is characterized by its emphasis on creating a tense, fearful atmosphere where the player must manage resources, solve puzzles, and evade or confront enemies, usually within a setting that is both psychologically and physically threatening.
History and Evolution
- Early Influences: The roots of Survival-Horror can be traced back to early horror-themed games like Haunted House (1982) for the Atari 2600, but it was not until the 1990s that the genre truly took shape.
- 1990s: The release of Alone in the Dark in 1992 by Infogrames is often cited as the first true Survival-Horror game, introducing many of the genre's conventions like fixed camera angles, limited inventory, and puzzle-solving under duress.
- Capcom's Impact: Resident Evil, released by Capcom in 1996, solidified the genre's popularity. Its success led to a franchise that has become synonymous with Survival-Horror. Key elements included:
- Conservation of resources (ammo, health items).
- Fixed camera angles to enhance tension.
- Complex puzzles integrated into the narrative.
- 2000s: The genre saw evolution with titles like Silent Hill (1999) focusing more on psychological horror, while Project Zero (known as Fatal Frame in North America) introduced unique gameplay mechanics centered around photography.
- Modern Era: Games like Amnesia: The Dark Descent (2010) brought innovation by removing combat, focusing instead on stealth and avoiding monsters, which intensified the horror experience.
Key Elements
- Resource Management: Players must manage limited ammunition, health items, and inventory space, which adds to the survival aspect.
- Atmosphere and Setting: Dark, isolated, and often decaying environments contribute to the feeling of dread and helplessness.
- Puzzle-Solving: Integrating puzzles into the narrative to progress, often requiring players to explore and backtrack.
- Enemy Encounters: Enemies are typically more powerful than the player, requiring avoidance or strategic engagement.
- Narrative: Deep storylines often involving supernatural or bio-engineered horrors, with a focus on character development and psychological depth.
Notable Titles
Impact and Influence
The Survival-Horror genre has significantly influenced not just video games but also film and literature, often exploring themes of human psychology, isolation, and the unknown. Its approach to storytelling and gameplay mechanics has inspired various other genres to incorporate elements of horror and survival into their narratives.
External Links
Related Topics