Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Sound, Light, and Narrative: A Study of Horror Effects in Horror Game Environment Design—The Case of Rusty Lake

Yuqing SunNewChannel*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

In recent years, horror games have gained popularity due to the evolution of player needs and preferences. The success of these games depends on creating an immersive atmosphere, capturing player attention, and delivering an exceptional gaming experience. However, scholarly investigations into the psychological impacts of specific design elements (e.g., auditory cues, lighting techniques, and narrative frameworks) remain limited. This study innovatively focuses on Rusty Lake, a 2D low-fidelity-style game, and analyzes how its ambient design enhances horror and player immersion. Precision in environmental design and atmospheric construction directly correlates with heightened perceptual realism in horror game experiences. Strategic integration of diegetic soundscapes and dynamic lighting systems enables developers to construct visceral horror atmospheres with higher efficacy. Through the analysis of Rusty Lake, this paper concludes that exquisite auditory cues, simple visual styles, and carefully designed narrative structure can significantly enhance psychological tension, which is the key to maintaining immersion and the horror atmosphere.

Keywords: Horror; Game design; Environment; Players' psychology; Rusty Lake series
Published: August 20, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.LC26169
Volume: CHR Vol.74
pp. 192-197
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