Many horror games encourage players to run away rather than fight every enemy. Escape sequences can make players feel powerless because survival depends on finding a safe location. The lack of combat options can also make enemies seem more frightening and dangerous.
Isolation is another common feature of horror games. Players may find themselves alone in a remote house, underground facility, abandoned town, or strange world. Without other characters nearby, the player has fewer sources of information and support, making every unexpected event feel more threatening.