Thanks to the success of games like the ultra-realistic FPSBodycam, the bodycam format has had a surge in popularity in gaming, particularly the horror genre. Slightly different from found footage games that utilize video cameras, bodycams give gameplay a unique point of view that merges the jarring motion of the moving body with video aesthetics.
Whether the camera is attached to a police officer, detective, orurban explorer, thesebodycam horror gamesplunge players into horrifying scenarios and force them to experience a range of disturbing settings through the feed of body cameras. The player just needs to hope that whatever awaits them, it won’t turn the footage into evidence.
While some of these games are only in their demo stage, they are still lengthy, worthwhile experiences. Full releases and more exciting new bodycam horror games are upcoming later in 2024.
7Chasmal Fear (Demo)
Steam User Rating: N/A
Set underwater,Chasmal Fearis an FPS action/horror game. The player is tasked with exploring the military research zone of the Magnus Underwater City, a facility imperative in underwater exploration and bio-engineering. There, they must complete specific objectives while facing a series of grotesque and mutated monsters.
With resource management, different in-game choices, and immersive environments,Chasmal Fearis set to be an intriguing horror game. It also offers a two-player co-op option for those who don’t want to face the deep alone.
6Fractured Mind (Demo)
Itch.io Score: N/A
Fractured Mindis aP.T.inspiredbodycam horror game that follows Michael, an ex-special agent suffering from PTSD and depression. Set on a looping train carriage, the environment gets increasingly dark as the player uncovers the truth about their character and gains insight into his psyche.
Although still in its demo status,Fractured Mindis a promising psychological horror game that also incorporates puzzle and shooter elements. Equal parts unsettling, tragic, and gory, players will be transfixed throughout.
5Abandoned Souls
Steam User Rating: 74%
Abandoned Soulsfollows Tim, an urban explorer who, at the request of his vlog viewers, has gone to a hospital that was shut down in 1985. Armed with only a Go-Pro camera, the player will investigate the hospital. Their goal is to discover the truth about what really went on there, as well as what really happened to the nearby village’s missing people.
Made with Unreal Engine 5,Abandoned Soulshas a stunning environment andcreepy soundscape. Offering a balanced mix of jumpscares and tension building, this game is perfect for players who are looking for games likeOutlastbut want a less intense experience.
4Baisu
Steam User Rating: 84%
Taking on the role of Detective Clay Kriest,Baisuplayers must respond to a call for help at the Smith family house. Upon investigating the residence, they will uncover the truth about the family and the sinister force that resides there, with the help of Bella the dog.
The bodycam perspective and realistic flashlight movements makeBaisua terrifying game, rich with story and atmosphere. The developer also cleverly manipulates the environment, time, and players' microphone recordings for a unique experience that leaves the player constantly on edge. There arefour endingstoBaisu, offering plenty of replayability for players who want to see them all.
3Notebook Entries Vol. 1: A Sheep’s Gun
Steam User Rating: 85%
Notebook Entries Vol. 1is a series of eight short horror experiences.A Sheep’s Gunis one of these stories, told from the perspective of a police officer who has been dispatched to a potential domestic abuse case. When they arrive on the scene, they must fend off the hostile specters that have been unleashed in the house.
This game has a retro feel with itslow-resolution aesthetic, and the audio and visual distortions add to the creepiness. Although it is a shorter experience,A Sheep’s Gunleaves a huge impact with its chilling ending.
2Rootman: Bodycam Horror Footage (Demo)
Itch.io Score: 4.3
A found footage game,Rootman: Bodycam Horror Footagehas the player experience the recording of a police officer that disappeared while investigating a call from a homeowner in the forest. What they discover reveals thatnature is not always friendly.
With a compelling mystery narrative, creepy settings, and eerie aesthetic, this game is perfect for fans of movies likeTheBlair Witch Project.Despite only being a prototype, it is worth keeping an eye out for the full release ofRootmanon Steam.
1Deppart Prototype
Itch.io Score: 4.7
Deppartis part first-person shooter, part walking simulator. The player must roam dingy concrete rooms with nothing but a gun in a training facility-like environment. However, what is lurking in the darkness is much stronger than bullets.
The antagonists inDeppartare extremely uncanny, and the disturbing sound design makes for a very uncomfortable experience. It also incorporates puzzle elements for those who enjoyproblem-solving horror games.
