Crafting Fear: A guide to horror factors in video games

FEAR FACTORS IN VIDEO GAMES is the only available guide on the market for designing fear and anxiety in games, based on scientific research, and analyses of the successes and failures of various productions.

Discover more at: www.craftingfear.com

Have you ever wondered what really makes a game terrifying to the core?

Fear Factors in Video Games is a guide that unveils the secrets of creating unforgettable experiences in the world of virtual horror. Patryk Polewiak, an experienced game developer, combines his passion with psychological and neurobiological knowledge to reveal how to effectively design fear and anxiety in video games.

This book is not just theory—it's a practical guide that walks you through the most important elements of building atmosphere, tension, and terror, step by step. You'll learn how emotions affect players, how to build an immersive horror narrative, and how to use fear as a tool to captivate your audience for the long haul.

Immerse yourself in a world where every design decision matters, and every scene can become a nightmare. Whether you're an experienced game developer or just starting your journey, Fear Factors in Video Games is a must-read for anyone looking to master the art of creating top-tier fear.

Who is this book for?

Fear Factors in Video Games is accessible to both fans of the genre and professionals in the field of virtual world creation.

• The book offers practical advice that you can use in game design and experience creation.
• Fear Factors explains in a straightforward manner the elements of horror that influence the feeling of fear and anxiety.

Content

The book thoroughly explains the differences between fear and anxiety and how to use them in games. It analyzes the positive and negative fear factors, vividly demonstrating their application.

The book is divided into three sections:

1. Horror, Fear, and Anxiety: where you will learn about the neuropsychological foundations of fear.
2. Analysis of Factors: discussing the factors that shape horror.
3. Case Studies: showing, through the games "Phantaruk" and "Alien: Isolation," what can influence the success of a horror game.

Page Count: 106
Format: PDF + ePUB

Pay What You Want

Game industry workers are currently facing a wave of layoffs and difficulties in finding employment. I decided to release this ebook in a "Pay What You Want" format to show at least a minimal amount of support to my fellow professionals, for whom this work is intended.