Ranking Every Dark Pictures Anthology Game: Where Does Directive 8020 Stand?

The Dark Pictures Anthology by Supermassive Games delivers five standalone interactive horror experiences where player choices drive the narrative and unexpected twists redefine the outcome. Over seven years, these games have tested players with impossible decisions and shocking reveals. But which entry stands out as the most gripping? Below is our definitive ranking of every Dark Pictures Anthology game to date—excluding Until Dawn, The Quarry, and The Casting of Frank Stone, as they are not part of the Anthology series.

5. The Devil in Me (2022)

If Ryan Murphy designed a video game, it would resemble The Devil in Me. The title opens with slasher nostalgia before shifting into a convoluted timeline where tension builds slowly. However, the game’s flaws are hard to overlook: forgettable characters, sluggish pacing, and a storyline that uncomfortably glorifies a real-life serial killer.

While The Devil in Me introduced meaningful exploration improvements—such as unique plot devices granting new mechanics to each character—its execution faltered. The game’s reliance on trial-and-error inventory management made every decision feel like a chore. Choices revolved around who possessed which item and when, a mechanic that punished players for guessing incorrectly, even in non-lethal situations. The experience devolved into a macabre spectacle, prioritizing creative deaths over meaningful storytelling.

4. Man of Medan (2019)

Man of Medan promised a classic horror setting—a haunted ship—but delivered a weak debut for the Anthology. Despite following Until Dawn, the game stumbled in two critical areas: character depth and atmospheric tension. Its reliance on jump scares in an otherwise slow-paced narrative made it difficult to invest in the story.

The game’s biggest misstep was its narrative reveal, which pivoted from psychological horror to supernatural horror, undermining the player’s experience. While Little Hope shared this issue, Man of Medan leaned harder into supernatural elements, leaving players confused about the core threat. Essentially a walking simulator with an overabundance of cheap scares, Man of Medan ranks as the weakest—but not the worst—entry in the Anthology, fitting for its status as the first installment.

3. Little Hope (2020)

Little Hope began as a trippy, time-warping experiment, but the experience grew increasingly confusing by the end. The game thrust players into multiple timelines, blending supernatural horror with psychological dread. However, the convoluted structure made it challenging to follow, especially as the narrative unfolded.

Like Man of Medan, Little Hope suffered from a narrative pivot that left players questioning what they had just experienced. The game’s supernatural elements clashed with its psychological foundation, creating a disjointed story. Despite its flaws, Little Hope offered moments of tension and unique gameplay mechanics, securing its place in the middle of our ranking.

2. House of Ashes (2021)

House of Ashes stands as the strongest entry in the Anthology, thanks to its gripping narrative and well-developed characters. Set in an ancient temple during a military coup, the game blends historical horror with supernatural terror. Players navigate a collapsing structure while making life-or-death decisions that impact the story’s outcome.

The game’s strength lies in its atmospheric tension and emotional depth. Characters feel real, and their struggles resonate, making the tough choices genuinely impactful. House of Ashes also benefits from a well-paced story that avoids the pitfalls of its predecessors, delivering a horror experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

"House of Ashes is a masterclass in interactive horror. The blend of historical drama and supernatural terror creates an unforgettable experience." — Horror Gaming Review

1. Directive 8020 (2024)

Directive 8020 redefines the Anthology with its ambitious scope and polished execution. Set in a dystopian future, the game follows a group of survivors navigating a world ravaged by a deadly virus. The narrative is tight, the characters are compelling, and the choices carry real weight.

The game’s production values are a significant leap forward, with improved graphics, voice acting, and interactive environments. Directive 8020 also introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as dynamic events that respond to player decisions in real time. It’s the most polished and engaging entry in the Anthology to date, earning its place at the top of our ranking.

"Directive 8020 is a triumph for Supermassive Games. It’s a horror game that feels fresh, immersive, and utterly terrifying." — IGN

Final Thoughts

The Dark Pictures Anthology has evolved significantly since its debut in 2019. While early entries like Man of Medan and Little Hope struggled with pacing and narrative clarity, later games such as House of Ashes and Directive 8020 have raised the bar for interactive horror. Whether you prefer psychological thrillers or supernatural terror, the Anthology offers something for every horror fan.