Horror RPGs are a strange bunch. Most gamers are familiar with typical horror games, and while they come in all varieties—sometimes they're walking simulators, other times they're survival horror experiences like Resident Evil and Dead Space—they usually aren't traditional RPGs.

This makes sense, as RPGs are usually about player agency and expression, which aren't exactly terrifying design pillars. There have been some exceptions, such as Parasite Eve, a PS1 cult classic that mashes together elements from Final Fantasy and Resident Evil. However, most horror RPGs elude mainstream success.

That doesn't mean there aren't plenty worth your time. Here are some great, lesser-known horror RPGs that most gamers probably haven't heard of.

These JRPG video games have some of the darkest story themes known in the ever-popular genre.

It met a mixed reception when it released in 1998, but Baroque has since grown into a certified cult classic. Set in a bizarre, cerebral post-apocalyptic world, the game tasks players with dungeon-crawling through various floors of a tower on a roguelike journey to the bottom.

Tap on a weapon to rotate it or press R while dragging.

As we've seen from indie darlings like Crow Country and Fear the Spotlight, the late-90s 3D aesthetic can work wonders for horror projects. Baroque, with its grotesque creature designs, edgy and bleak world, and dingy environments, was an early example of how this era's vibes can facilitate real fear and suspense.

There are two versions of Baroque : the original 1998 release for the Sega Saturn, and a 2008 remake for the Nintendo Wii and PS2.

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