Building the environment and atmosphere of a horror game

Lim, Yeat Shan (2026) Building the environment and atmosphere of a horror game. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

This thesis investigates how environmental design shapes atmosphere in horror games, with a focus on creating dread, tension, vulnerability, and anticipation beyond the use of jump scares. As many modern horror games rely heavily on sudden shocks and explicit threats, this study argues that effective horror is more sustainably achieved through carefully constructed spaces, lighting, sound, environmental storytelling, and player interaction. The research aims to identify the environmental factors that strengthen or weaken horror atmosphere and to develop practical design guidance for game creators. Using a qualitative methodology, this thesis combines literature review with case study analysis of selected horror games. The analysis is organized around four main components: environmental composition, visual atmosphere, auditory atmosphere, and environmental storytelling. Findings show that horror atmosphere is strongest when these elements work together consistently. Tight corridors, dark or partially visible spaces, unsettling soundscapes, decayed environmental details, and limited but meaningful player agency all contribute to a stronger sense of fear. In contrast, overly bright lighting, inconsistent audio-visual tone, predictable mechanics, and excessive exposure reduce suspense and weaken immersion. The study concludes that horror atmosphere should be understood as a coherent system rather than a collection of isolated effects. For designers, especially students and independent developers, the results offer practical strategies for building horror environments that create lasting emotional impact through design rather than reliance on cheap scares. Keywords: horror games, environmental design, atmosphere, dread, sound design, environmental storytelling

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