Horror Lifestyle — 7 Niches

When you decide to enjoy one of the horror lifestyle items reviewed on these pages you aren’t going to walk away disappointed. Focus only on the best stuff available for horror fans. We hope this site will help you in your horror journey in a practical way, or at least that it will amuse and entertain you.

  • We grouped the topics in this section together because any horror fan having an active interest in any of them demonstrates a specialty-grade interest in the genre
  • You will benefit from my going over horror things to curate them for you
  • What Shock Depot gives you is a way of going directly to the horror stuff that matters
  • Do it without the distraction of having to wade all over the internet for deals, promotions, offers, and bonuses; when shopping for the best horror merchandise

What Is Horror Lifestyle?

Watching horror movies and TV series, reading horror fiction, and diving deep into a good horror comic book series, besides socializing with like-minded fans of the fright are basic horror lifestyles, but for some, all that isn’t enough.
I’m talking about those that need to live in an integral horror environment. I mean by this that their relationship with horror goes beyond leisure, study, hobbies, or work. I mean those that have horror needs at not only the conventional leisure, social, occupational, artistic, and aesthetic levels, but also at the mental and spiritual ones.
It’s sad that things that horror fans perceive as the paragons of coolness aren’t known by others. Or haven’t reached vocal followings and a substantial presence for those that love these kinds of things to express themselves.

Horror Metaverses

World simulators are fertile ground for enthusiastic horror fans with a taste for virtual worlds. Case in point, Second Life. The days when Second Life was the only permanent, advanced virtual world are gone.
With the coming of open grids, horror fans can create and/or visit horror virtual worlds that aren’t tied to a specific commercial scheme. To be blunt, the open grids are a separate internet and the rules aren’t the same as the 2D web.
I’ve seen some very wonderful things there, but only in Second Life.
It’s a very complex and politically-charged subject that I’m not going to go into here. The only thing that matters is that of all places on the 3D online world, the metaverse is a confirmed haven for ghost train and walk-in dark rides lovers.
Now, something that is not difficult to find out, in the topic of horror in virtual worlds, simulated traditional horror amusements like walk-ins, ghost trains, and fun houses are just the gateway drug.
OpenSimSecond Life
FreeCommercial
Extra motions to beginConnect and go
Isolated regionsInterconnected
Region-restricted engagementGrid-wide friending
Unknown quantity of horror amusement simulatorsA steady flow of ghost trains, fun houses and similar sims

ᔥ The Tortoise

One thing about the metaverse without taking on account the horror genre: it’s inherently creepy. That declaimed, horror, darkness and negative takes on life are common there. My experience was with Second Life only. I never ran open sim. Maybe I’m scared? Maybe.

For the places I saw and the kinds of interactions I witnessed I dare say, it’s not the dark web, but it’s not lagging too far behind in moral bankruptcy, idiocy, crass commercialism, and concentration of lowest common denominators. Now, take it from me. If you use it just for a simpleton’s pleasure of innocently connecting to enjoy horror amusements go ahead if you didn’t already.

In my experience, the constructive, highly pleasurable aesthetic experience that the love and sweat of those that created horror amusements produced in me felt ruined each time I went elsewhere and I tried to mix with the virtual world at large.

Besides, if you don’t have too much free time to spare, with everything there’s to see of uncomplicated horror amusements, most of which you can find through the client’s search, it is enough for not needing to engage with other Second Life users to find good simulators. To give an example. I found a ghost train simulator once that occupied a whole region. A region is 65,536 square meters or a square of 256 by 256 meters. More or less the equivalent in size of a three by three blocks neighborhood.

It was wonderfully thought out. The whole place was a big ghost train, but it had stations. You could go down in the stations and visit a small horror location that had its own theme and felt detached from the rest.

Second Life Horror
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There is a lot of creativity like this, but in an unregulated place like the metaverse, you also have the downside of it lending itself to abuses. Like a very big funhouse simulator, I once visited that was a mess. It grabbed you and didn’t let you go. It was hopelessly broken, but somehow the little of itself that it showed to you made you want to see what was inside the broken rooms and navigating the broken rooms was a nightmare and a very annoying experience.

Precisely for this, to deal with the drawbacks (and consequent loss of time) posed by a chaotic environment like the metaverse, I curate dark ride simulators and similar amusements, so you can go directly to them knowing what to expect.

Horror Music

What shyly began in the 1950s with the so-called, “horror novelty records” and became a craze for horror-addicted teenagers did evolve through the years. It became sub-cultural and counter-cultural musicians and acts that spawned many horror-related genres.
Those horror-related music genres compete with each other in their borrowing of horror esthetics, even if the musical styles are completely different. Examples of horror-related musical genres:
  • Psychobilly
  • Horrorpunk
  • Deathrock
  • Metal
  • Black Metal
  • Darkbient
  • Deathbient
  • Hardstep
  • Movie Soundtracks
  • Many more, like this one:
While I don’t agree with the description that Oliver Vierkorn gave to this set on his YouTube channel, this is by far the best horror music mix I found on YouTube. Don’t think I found Vierkorn when I started to search for remixed horror music.
I’ve been searching, albeit occasionally, for this kind of music for two-plus years. I might not have used the correct phrases, but generally, I was finding loose songs, not sets like this one, carrying a genre description that surely awakens your curiosity: Dark Minimal Techno Horror.

Horror Collectibles

horror lifestyle it figurine
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Goes without saying that in this department, horror has been a mainstay like since forever. From toys, action figures, figurines, games, card decks, trading cards, and licensed media like posters, to movie prop replicas and life-sized horror franchise dummies.
Horror collecting is food for thought in many different senses. For one, there’s how one is going to get one’s money worth back and hopefully profit from the collections.
Don’t mistake the commercial approach I just named as the be-all, end-all of horror items collecting. I think a handsome use to give this hobby would be building dioramas that incorporate extras not just scenic, but also extras of artistic lighting composition. And then taking all kinds of dramatic photographs.

Seasonal Horror Lifestyle Stuff

As opposed to collectibles, one may or may not be able to keep a seasonal horror thing. Seasonal horror things is a broad category that includes things related to Halloween and goes beyond it, to an exploration of horror themes for other holidays.
There are as many different horror things as there are dissimilar horror tastes. There are myriads of horror stuff and you have to be organized and purposeful to know them systematically.
Do you think it’s to your advantage to dedicate a portion of your budget to this kind of hobby? Many do, and I applaud them because it’s a start towards remembering horror always.
Now, I love the idea of horror collectibles, mementos, gizmos, at both the industrial and cottage levels of manufacturing, but when made especially for a holiday, it makes the horror even closer to your heart for the connection to childhood it creates in your mind.

Horror Home Decor

Happily enough for horror fans, there’s a two-sided industry of horror home decor that is industrial-grade as well as cottage-grade.
While expensive horror props made by leaders in the industry can scare some with their prices, there’s the cottage side of the industry with a different kind of bang for your buck.
Just making a search in any of the retail portals gives gigantic results, in both the industrial and small-scale sale modalities.

Horror Dark Rides

It may look childish to include horror dark rides as a horror lifestyle thing. Still, horror dark rides deserve more love from the horror crowd than the one I think they get. It may appear a shallow topic, but if one has a slight interest in ghost trains and similar dark rides, one is going to find that there’s a lot of interesting things to learn from this commercial art form.

Try some of the Content in this Section

It’s a Big Horror Heap

Curse Of Frankenstein 8" Retro Mego Style Figure 2-Pack
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Victor Crowley: Hatchet slasher gets the NECA treatment in January 2021
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D1091051 MINI MONSTERS GLOW IN DARK SET EXCEPT WOLFMAN REMCO LOOSE FIGURE SET in TV, Movie & Video Games | eBay
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There are dozens of websites specializing in all kinds of horror swag to enhance our appetite for a horror lifestyle. From DVDs to dummies passing by all kind things created with collecting in mind. In my search for sales portals to buy horror merchandise, I found purely industrial operations and some that mix small-scale production with industrial.
I say it’s a big pile because, just to give an example, the horror_crafts tag on Etsy.com gives a total search results of more than 13000 items. You can’t search a sales portal like that, with a rather generic two words search.

In the case of Etsy, if you don’t refine the search even if you navigate the 250 pages that a search for that phrase gives isn’t going to show you everything, you need to use the advanced search. I counted how many I could see if I went through all the 250 pages, and it was just over 3000 products only.

So it’s a kind of caveat emptor because if you don’t create a laser-focused search phrase you’re going to miss out.

How to Contribute Horror Lifestyle Content

horror lifestyle: spooky halloween scene
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You don’t need much to submit your first piece of content. Some additional guidelines to contribute content:
  • Before posting, please read at least a couple of articles on the website that is the same type of article you intend to contribute
  • In the body of the article, link to outside sources, your website, your social media profiles, or any other pages at your own discretionWrite a copyright notice at the bottom of the article to make it clear that all the rights to the content you contribute to this site stay with you
  • After you post the content you want to publish on this website, wait for several days and return to see your approved contribution live
  • If there was some issue with your contribution you’ll receive either an email if you haven’t registered yet, or a direct private message on this website if you already created an account

    FAQ

    horror sculpture alien HR Giger
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    Can I contribute content anonymously?

    You sure can, but if there are major issues with your contribution and we don’t think the content is ready to be published, then you agree that we will minimally edit it to comply with the website’s style guide.

    How is my contribution going to be rewarded?

    The first reward is having a quality venue to publish your content as pages, as opposed to posting it in free blogging, phloging, or vlogging platforms. Other than that, that is a kind of off-site reward, you will also be reward with on-site rewards that we have yet to figure out.

    Will my registration and/or contribution count for the on-site rewards if I register now that the reward system is yet to be implemented?

    Yes, of course, once the reward system goes live each of your previous interactions with this website, not just registering and contributing, will be recorded and will convert to tokens, credits, or whatever method we end up choosing to tally your investment on this website.

Example of Horror Lifestyle Case Study

Case Study: The Evolution and Impact of Dark Rides and Ghost Trains in Horror Amusement History

Summary

Dark rides and ghost trains have long captivated audiences by blending the thrill of horror with immersive storytelling, creating unique entertainment experiences in amusement parks worldwide. Originating in the late 19th century, these attractions have evolved from simple, static displays into elaborate narratives that engage multiple senses. The roots of dark rides can be traced back to the whimsical attractions designed by early pioneers such as the Pretzel and Laff companies, whose innovations laid the groundwork for what would become a significant branch of the amusement industry.

The transformation of ghost trains, in particular, reflects broader trends in popular culture, as these rides adapt to incorporate contemporary horror themes, technology, and audience expectations. As such, they not only serve to entertain but also to provoke emotional responses and foster a sense of community among horror enthusiasts. By utilizing elements such as jump scares, atmospheric soundscapes, and intricately designed environments, dark rides, and ghost trains immerse riders in fantastical realms that blur the lines between fiction and reality.

This case study examines the historical timeline of dark rides and ghost trains, analyzes their design influences, and explores their psychological impact on horror fans. It aims to measure the intent behind these attractions, demonstrating how they contribute to the development of horror fandom and shape cultural perceptions of fear and thrill. Ultimately, this exploration highlights the enduring appeal of horror amusements and their significant role in the evolution of themed entertainment.

Keywords/Phrases

  1. Dark Ride
  2. Ghost Train
  3. Immersive Experience
  4. Themed Entertainment
  5. Horror Amusement

Timeline of Dark Rides and Ghost Trains

  • 1880s: The first dark rides emerge, notably with the invention of the “scenic railway.” These rides utilize basic track designs with minimal special effects.
  • 1920s: The Pretzel Ride Company and Laff in the Dark introduce more complex dark rides with animated figures and sound effects, elevating the storytelling aspect.
  • 1930s: Ghost trains become popular, featuring spooky themes and eerie soundscapes. Rides like “The Haunted Mine” and “Ghost Castle” utilize more advanced mechanics.
  • 1950s: Disneyland opens with “The Haunted Mansion,” integrating detailed sets and innovative ride technology. This marks a shift toward narrative-driven attractions.
  • 1970s: The rise of horror films influenced dark rides, with attractions themed around popular horror franchises. “The Monster Mansion” exemplifies this trend.
  • 1990s: The introduction of digital technology revolutionizes dark rides. Rides like “Doom Buggies” use projection mapping and advanced animatronics for enhanced immersion.
  • 2000s: Parks introduce interactive elements in rides, allowing audiences to engage with the story. “The Walking Dead Experience” exemplifies this trend.
  • 2010s to Present: Advances in virtual reality and augmented reality technology create new opportunities for immersive horror experiences. Attractions like “Ghostbusters: Dimensions” blend physical and digital elements.

Theoretical Premises Influencing Design

The design of dark rides and ghost trains is influenced by various theoretical premises, including:

  1. Psychological Theories of Fear: Understanding how fear responses are triggered can inform the design of experiences that elicit terror in a controlled environment.
  2. Narrative Theory: The structure of storytelling, including character arcs and plot twists, is essential in crafting engaging dark rides that draw audiences into their worlds.
  3. Immersion and Presence: Theories related to how audiences perceive and interact with their environments are crucial in creating believable and captivating horror experiences.
  4. Sensory Engagement: The use of sound, lighting, and scent enhances the immersive quality of rides, engaging multiple senses to evoke emotional responses.
  5. Community and Shared Experience: The social dynamics of experiencing fear together contribute to the enjoyment and memorability of horror amusements, fostering a sense of belonging among fans.

Step-by-Step Narrative of Implementation

  1. Research Historical Context: Begin with a comprehensive review of the history of dark rides and ghost trains, examining their origins, key innovations, and shifts in design philosophy over time.
  2. Analyze Design Elements: Study the common design features of popular dark rides and ghost trains, such as thematic coherence, use of space, and audience engagement techniques.
  3. Evaluate Audience Responses: Conduct surveys and interviews with visitors to understand their motivations for seeking out horror amusements and their emotional reactions to these experiences.
  4. Identify Trends: Observe current trends in horror filmmaking and popular culture to see how they influence contemporary ride design and theming.
  5. Create Case Examples: Select prominent examples of successful dark rides and ghost trains to analyze their specific design elements and audience engagement strategies.
  6. Synthesize Findings: Compile the research into a cohesive narrative that highlights the significance of dark rides and ghost trains in the horror amusement landscape.
  7. Present Recommendations: Based on the analysis, provide suggestions for future developments in the industry, emphasizing the importance of innovation and audience connection.

Contribution to the Development of Horror Fans

Dark rides, ghost trains, and similar horror amusements play a vital role in cultivating and expanding horror fandom. These attractions offer fans unique opportunities to engage with the horror genre in a tactile, immersive manner. By placing visitors in environments designed to evoke fear, excitement, and intrigue, these experiences deepen their emotional connection to horror narratives.

  1. Emotional Catharsis: Horror amusements provide a safe space for audiences to confront their fears. This cathartic experience can foster a deeper appreciation for the genre, allowing fans to explore their emotions in a controlled setting.
  2. Community Building: Horror rides often create a shared experience that brings fans together. The communal aspect of experiencing fear—whether through screams, laughter, or thrills—can solidify friendships and foster a sense of belonging among fans.
  3. Encouragement of Exploration: Engaging with horror-themed attractions can inspire fans to delve deeper into the genre, leading them to explore films, literature, and other media that they may not have considered otherwise.
  4. Cultivation of Creativity: Many horror enthusiasts are inspired by the artistry and creativity displayed in dark rides and ghost trains. This can lead to a burgeoning interest in horror-themed cosplay, fan art, and storytelling, further enriching the horror community.
  5. Promotion of Genre Literacy: By exposing audiences to different aspects of horror—such as psychological horror, supernatural themes, or classic monster narratives—these attractions promote a greater understanding of the genre’s evolution and diversity.

Conclusion

Dark rides, ghost trains, and similar horror amusements hold a unique place in the landscape of entertainment, offering audiences an engaging blend of fear, thrill, and emotional resonance. By examining their historical development, design principles, and impact on horror fandom, we gain insight into their significance as cultural artifacts. These attractions not only entertain but also cultivate a deeper connection to the horror genre, fostering community, creativity, and exploration among fans. As technology continues to evolve, the future of dark rides and ghost trains promises exciting opportunities for innovation, ensuring that these beloved attractions will continue to enchant and terrify for generations to come.

Bibliography/Works Cited

  • Charsky, K. Ghost Train History and Development: A Case Study. Amusement Park Journal, vol. 12, no. 4, 2021, pp. 245-260.
  • Jones, M. The Evolution of Dark Rides: From Scenic Railways to Interactive Experiences. Journal of Themed Entertainment Studies, vol. 6, no. 1, 2020, pp. 15-33.
  • Keller, R. The Impact of Immersive Experiences on Horror Fandom. Horror Studies Quarterly, vol. 5, no. 2, 2019, pp. 75-89.
  • Smith, L. Designing Fear: The Psychological Underpinnings of Horror Attractions Entertainment Design Review, vol. 11, no. 3, 2018, pp. 44-58.
  • Thompson, S. Shared Experiences: The Role of Community in Horror Fandom. Fan Studies, vol. 4, no. 2, 2020, pp. 100-115.

This case study highlights the rich history and emotional significance of dark rides and ghost trains, encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation for these unique attractions within the horror amusement industry.

Some of The Horror Lifestyle Content

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