One idea could be a haunted house where every night at midnight, the walls start to ooze a strange black liquid that whispers the names of the previous owners who died mysteriously in the house. The protagonist could be a young journalist looking for a big story and decides to stay in the house for a night to investigate.
One of the best is 'Silent Hill 2'. It has a deeply disturbing and psychological story. The main character, James, receives a letter from his dead wife and travels to the town of Silent Hill. The town is filled with grotesque monsters that seem to be manifestations of his inner demons and guilt. The atmosphere is thick with fog and dread, and as you progress, you uncover more about James' past and the true nature of the town.
Open with a strange noise. A continuous scratching sound from inside the walls, getting louder and louder. The character tries to figure out what's making the noise but is too afraid to investigate further. This creates suspense and a sense of dread right from the start.
Scrivener, again. You can use it to create detailed character profiles and plot outlines for your horror story. The ability to split your screen and refer to different parts of your research or previous writing while you write can enhance the horror - writing experience.
One of the best horror story audio books is 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. The audio version really brings out the spooky atmosphere of the classic vampire tale. The narrator's voice can add an extra layer of creepiness, making it feel like the vampires are lurking right around the corner as you listen.
Set the scene in a spooky, isolated place like an old, creaking mansion on a stormy night. For example, 'The wind howled outside the decaying mansion as the rain lashed against the broken windows, and I stepped inside, not knowing what horrors awaited me.'
A roll of a natural 20 (in a dice - related context, like in some tabletop role - playing games) can be great for a horror story. It could signify a perfect discovery or a critical moment that heightens the horror, like finding the most terrifying clue or escaping a near - death encounter at the last moment.
I think 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley is a great gothic horror story. It deals with the themes of creation, monstrosity, and the consequences of playing God. The creature, created by Victor Frankenstein, is a tragic figure that elicits both fear and pity. The desolate landscapes and the dark, brooding atmosphere add to the horror.
One idea could be a haunted house. The main character inherits an old, dilapidated mansion. Strange noises start at night, like scratching on the walls and doors creaking open on their own. There are cold spots throughout the house, and the character begins to see shadowy figures out of the corner of their eye. As they explore further, they find a locked room in the attic. When they finally break it open, they discover an old diary that reveals a dark past of murder and revenge that seems to be coming back to life.
One of the best horror game stories is from 'Silent Hill 2'. The story revolves around James Sunderland who receives a letter from his deceased wife Mary, asking him to meet her in Silent Hill. As he explores the fog - filled and nightmarish town, he uncovers dark secrets about his relationship with Mary and his own guilt. The psychological horror elements are deeply intertwined with the narrative, making it a truly immersive and disturbing experience.