For a horror game story to be the best, it should have a great build - up of tension. In 'Dead Space', the slow - creeping feeling as you explore the derelict spaceship, with strange noises and things moving in the dark, creates a great atmosphere. And the plot twists are important. Just when you think you know what's going on, like in 'Fatal Frame', something unexpected happens that throws you off and makes the horror even more intense.
A great short horror story often has a strong and unexpected twist. For example, in 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant, the ending reveals that the years of hard work to replace the lost necklace were for a fake one. This sudden revelation is what makes it memorable.
A great short horror story often has a strong sense of unease from the start. For example, in 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the description of the wallpaper and the narrator's fixation on it immediately sets a creepy mood. It also needs a good twist, like in 'The Landlady' where the seemingly kind landlady has some very dark secrets.
A 'best - prepared' horror story often has characters who are well - equipped or have some form of knowledge or protection going into the situation. For example, if the story involves a haunted house, the characters might have brought religious items like crosses or holy water, or they could be experienced ghost hunters with all kinds of high - tech equipment. This makes the situation seem more real and the impending doom more terrifying because they still might not be able to overcome the horror despite their preparations.
One key factor is the ability to create a sense of dread in the reader. It can do this through unexpected twists and turns. A good horror story can make you jump out of your skin with a sudden shock. Like in 'Psycho', the sudden murder in the shower scene was so unexpected and terrifying.
A sense of danger. If players don't feel constantly threatened in the story, it won't be engaging. For example, in 'Dead by Daylight', the survivors are always at risk of being caught by the killer. Also, mystery is key. In 'The Forest', the mystery of what happened on the island and the existence of the mutants keeps players interested. They want to uncover the secrets.
It could be the unique setting. If it's set in a very unusual or specific location that we don't often see in other horror games, that would make it stand out.
A great horror game story often has relatable characters. When players can identify with the characters, they feel more involved. If the character is in a situation like being trapped in a haunted house, which is a common fear, it makes the story scarier. Also, the setting matters a lot. A dark, desolate place like an abandoned cemetery or an old, decaying mansion sets the mood for horror.
Suspense is key. For an 'infliction horror game story', if it can keep players on the edge of their seats wondering what will happen next, it's effective. For instance, in 'Alien: Isolation', the constant threat of the alien popping up at any moment creates great suspense.
The atmosphere is crucial. A horror game story with a dark, gloomy setting like an abandoned hospital or a desolate cemetery sets the mood. Dim lighting, creepy music, and fog all add to the fear factor. Also, the threat of death or harm to the main character makes it scarier. If the character is constantly in danger, the player feels more on edge.
A game with a best story usually has well - developed characters. For example, in 'The Last of Us', Joel and Ellie are very complex characters with their own motives and emotions. Their relationship drives the story forward. Also, a great story in a game often has an interesting setting. Like 'Red Dead Redemption 2' with its detailed Wild West setting that sets the mood and context for the story. Another factor is the plot twists. 'Mass Effect' had some really unexpected plot twists that kept players engaged.