Horror Board Games

Horror-themed board games may seem a little dark and scary, but that usually adds to the fun of the experience, especially for those who like horror in the first place.

These games can be exciting for parties and group events, and some of them are appropriate for adults and kids both. 

Read on to discover some of the most popular board games horror fans are sure to love. Among our list, you’ll find something that appeals to your dark sense of fun easily.

Option #1: The Bloody Inn

The Bloody Inn  allows players to choose a card, play as that character, and explore different paths and stories each time they play. There is even a solo version of this game for those looking to adventure alone. This game features colorful cards with unique artwork that draws players in and it doesn’t take long to set up a round. Just remember that it may take a few playthroughs to get the overall concept of this game.

Option #2: Nyctophobia: The Hunted

Nyctophobia: The Hunted  is a unique game that is played blindfolded. The game’s creator was inspired by a visually impaired relative who shared his experience playing board games. This concept eventually grew into a dark horror game that encourages players to scare each other while working cooperatively toward a shared ultimate goal. This game comes with four pairs of blackout glasses so players don’t have to supply their own blindfolds. Overall it is pretty unique and is sure to be a bonding experience for all players. Just remember that the novelty of this game may wear off quickly after a few plays.

Option #3: Betrayal at House on the Hill

Betrayal at House on the Hill  is one of the most popular mystery and horror themed board games on the market. This game is built to be cooperative, so players must work together to determine the solution to the mystery and escape the house. This game takes about an hour to complete, so it’s great for longer game nights. This game can be enjoyed by three to six players and is appropriate for ages 12 and up, and is a good bonding experience for friends and family alike. Just keep in mind that it takes up a lot of space and requires a big table or open floor.

Option #4: Mysterium

Mysterium  is yet another cooperative mystery and horror themed board game. If one person loses the game, everyone loses. This game includes themes of ghosts and haunted houses, but it’s still a good choice for families to enjoy with kids as well. This game can be played by ages 10 and up and by 2 to 7 players and can usually be finished in under an hour. Keep in mind, however, that the horror theme may be a little lackluster, since it’s intended for kids

Option #5: Ghost Stories

One to four players can enjoy a round of Ghost Stories  to get their horror game fix. This game utilizes cards and tokens to keep track of how things are progressing and includes colorful artwork on all the cards. The game is cooperative and players take on the role of fighters working to defend their home village from invading monsters. This game goes differently every time since dice are involved and it doesn’t take long to learn how to play. In the same way though, the game tends to make some players nervous because much of it is left to chance.

Option #6: Arkham Horror

In Arkham Horror , players choose between investigators looking into the strange occurrences at the game’s primary location. Different cards can change the outcome of the game by sending players on different narrative paths, so different playthroughs may have different outcomes even if the same characters are chosen every time. This game can be played solo for a unique adventure experience or with up to 6 players. There are also expansion pack options available for additional purchase. Also, newer versions of the game have taken some of the complexity away but this has also taken away some of the player choices.

Option #7: Eldritch Horror

Eldritch Horror  is a different version of Arkham Horror inspired by the same game. The theme is more or less the same, and so is the gameplay, with just a few changes. The game is a little faster to play than Arkham Horror, however, and is a better choice for parties since it can support up to 8 players. This game can be enjoyed as a solo run for those who want to give it a try and includes many ways to alter and change gameplay with repeated plays. Strangely though, there seem to be typos on the cards. Still a great game, though.

Option #8: City of Horror

City of Horror  is an immersive zombie-themed game experience about survival. This game also requires negotiating and bartering among other players as well as cooperation and competition at different points. It’s a great game for groups who enjoy planning and strategizing together and on their own. This game is good for ages 13 and up and for 3 to 6 players. The game lasts about 90 minutes, so it’s an extra-long option.

Option #9: Fury of Dracula

Fury of Dracula  involves a vampire theme and encourages players to make strategic decisions and to plan their moves ahead of time in some cases, too. This game is in its third edition and includes vivid artwork and unique designs that many customers are pleased with. This game can be enjoyed by as few as two or as many as five players, so it’s a good choice for smaller groups who want a longer and more intimate gameplay experience. The game is also easier for a group to play than it is for just two.

Play The Best Scary Board Games For Terrifying Tabletop

Are these truly scary board games? If you want to make them scarier, what can you do? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Play ambient sounds and music to increase the horror atmosphere.
• Turn off the lights and play by candlelight or with flashlights and lanterns.
• Play on a camping trip.

Most of these board games have a “creepy” quality that makes them a little scary, but they aren’t that scary in practice—especially for adults. By trying some of the ideas listed above, you can make your board game night a little scarier and improve the overall horror theme for your next Halloween party or spooky event.

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