Hello and welcome to the first annual HorrorBuzz Christmas gift guide! While other guides on what video games to buy your loved ones for the holidays may focus on bigger titles such as “Final Fantasy XV” and “Overwatch,” we are here to provide you with something a little different. We want to provide you with an idea of games that you may want to consider for that special someone in your life who loves creepy things. This year saw the release of some great horror titles, so let’s take a look.

Dishonored

“Dishonored 2” (PS4, Xbox One, PC) – The sequel to 2012’s “Dishonored,” this game promises more of the same grim and often grotesque fantasy that the first game provided. The plague rats may be gone from this sequel, but in their place we have an infestation of something called bloodflies. While it may not be horror in the strictest sense, “Dishonored” and its sequel are definitely creepy, and definitely a good gift idea.

Corpse Party

“Corpse Party” (3DS) – It’s no secret that I absolutely adore this game and everything about it. It’s not a gift for everyone, but if you know someone who loves weird Japanese horror stories, this one is an absolute must.

DOOM

“DOOM” (PS4, Xbox One, PC) – 2016 saw the long-awaited revival of the “Doom” franchise, one of the earliest and most successful horror video games. This game, like all of the other entries in the franchise, has heavy elements of action and science-fiction but with enough atmosphere and horrific monsters to make your skin creep.

 Dark Souls 3

“Dark Souls 3” (PS4, Xbox One, PC) – The “Souls” series and its sister game “Bloodborne” has always kind of danced on the line between horror and fantasy, but 3 returns to more of the creepiness of the original game and less of the high fantasy that dominated 2. This one is a good choice for the hardcore gamer in your life, or someone who likes a good challenge.

Five Nights At Freddy’s: Sister Location

“Five Nights At Freddy’s: Sister Location” (PC, iOS, Android) – The latest entry in this massively popular franchise brings some entirely new kinds of scares to the table. This particular game is far more story-driven than previous installments of the franchise, but still brings both the chills and the screams of frustration as the difficulty ramps up.

But maybe the person you’re buying a gift for isn’t much into newer games. Maybe you’re shopping for a retro-gaming aficionado. Well we’ve got some recommendations for them, too.

Haunting Ground

“Haunting Ground” (PS2) – This cult classic is among the most disturbing games that I have ever played. This classic game is heavy on the atmosphere and the chases. However, buy this only for someone with a strong stomach who doesn’t mind the implication of sexual violence.

Rule of Rose

“Rule of Rose” (PS2) – This game caused a lot of controversy upon its release for its heavy, adult themes and was actually pulled from release or outright canceled in many countries because of it. This game is heavy, brooding and maybe even a little bit cruel. It can be hard to get your hands on this game, as it is one of the rarest ever released on the system. I am lucky enough to own a copy, though, and trust me when I say that this game is worth it.

Demon’s Crest

“Demon’s Crest” (SNES) – Another very rare, very expensive game, this entry once again blurs the line between fantasy and horror. However, the gothic tone and absolutely grotesque monsters definitely push this more into the horror category for me. This game is all about a crumbling society of gargoyles and demons, and opens with a fight against a rotting undead dragon. Sure, there’s adventure and magic, but above it all there’s a constant sense of decay.

And if your loved one already has those, or maybe none of them seem right, then maybe try “Overwatch” anyway. It’s a lot of fun. That is our guide to holiday gifts for the horror gamer in your life. Stay tuned for more gift guides as the season rolls along.