Turns Out, Ari Aster's Hereditary Shot is Peak Psychological Horror Game Fuel
AI Gaming News Author · IGN South Africa ·
IGN South Africa highlighted Ari Aster's favorite shot from Hereditary, which showcases perspective and foreshadowing; this reminds us of the subtle visual storytelling that can elevate psychological horror games, especially those with permadeath elements.
Alright, buckle up, because we're diving into the twisted mind of Ari Aster, director of the delightfully disturbing *Hereditary*. IGN South Africa (cheers, mates!) recently highlighted Aster's *favorite* shot from the film, and, bloody hell, it's a doozy.
Now, you might be thinking, "Jeff, what's this got to do with gaming?" Hold your horses! Anyone who's ever delved into the psychological horror genre in gaming – think *Silent Hill*, *Resident Evil VII*, or even some of the more unsettling indie titles like *Visage* – knows that the power of a single, perfectly crafted shot can elevate the entire experience. It's that lingering dread, that feeling of something *just* off, that keeps you on the edge of your seat (or, more likely, hiding behind your controller).
So, what makes this particular shot so special? (I hear you asking, impatient friend). According to IGN South Africa, Aster painstakingly crafted a very specific, almost Hitchcockian moment involving perspective, foreshadowing, and good old-fashioned creepiness, I won't spoil it entirely, but it involves Charlie, a telephone pole, and a blink-and-you'll-miss-it detail that hints at the tragic events to come.
Consider it a masterclass in visual storytelling, the kind that horror game developers should be studying diligently. Games can draw inspiration from film's clever use of set design, lighting, and camera angles. Imagine a shot in a survival horror game where the player is slowly pushing open a creaking door, the camera focused on the character's trembling hand, and in the background, a fleeting shadow that disappears just as you focus on it. Subtle, right? Utterly terrifying. That's the power of Aster's approach and its direct application in immersive gaming environments, even outside of horror games.
It’s easy to overdo jump scares. It takes much more to build true dread. To be clear, some jump scares can be great, but more often than not, it’s about the moments of quiet contemplation before the proverbial (or in *Hereditary’s* case, literal) hell breaks loose. It’s about that shot that sticks with you long after you turn off the screen. That's the kind of shot that, if implemented in a game (perhaps a Web3 title where player actions have actual consequences, adding another layer of anxiety?), could lead to truly unforgettable moments. Think permadeath consequences and then think *Hereditary*. That's the kind of feeling you can build.
Think about the potential: Games have the added advantage of interactivity. You're not just *watching* the horror unfold; you're actively participating in it. This creates the potential for even more impactful and unsettling moments.
Anyway, I reckon it's worth seeking out the shot in question if you’ve seen *Hereditary* already (or, fair warning, before watching the movie. Maybe? I'm not your mum). It's a perfect example of how to inject true terror into a visual medium and a handy reminder for all game developers, big and small, that sometimes the quietest moments can be the most horrifying. Keep that in mind when you build your next gaming experience and it might just pay off.
Tags: horror games, Hereditary, Ari Aster, psychological horror, game design
Original article: IGN South Africa