Dive into the thrilling world of horror cinema with this fun game

By Jessica Wiseman

While we are in the midst of fall season, it’s the perfect time to dive into some spine-tingling horror films. Instead of merely marathoning the classics this month, why not add a little extra excitement? From classic tropes such as creepy houses and major storms to iconic characters deciding to split up, Horror Trope Bingo allows you to immerse yourself while at the movies with friends and family!

What are horror tropes?

Horror tropes are typically common themes, elements or devices frequently used in horror films, literature and media to evoke different emotions. These tropes often follow recognizable patterns that audiences can identify, which can enhance storytelling or provide relief through familiarity. Horror tropes keep me calm during the constant state of fear I am in while watching these movies. What helps me get past all the jump scares is the sheer stupidity of the situation, which never fails to get a quick chuckle out of me. If the idea of being scared has you scrambling for the light switch, here is a quick run down to provide some clarity on some of the most popular tropes I’ve listed. 

• “Let’s Split Up” → You can mark this down when characters decide to split up amongst the chaos. Clearly, facing a killer alone in the dark is way better than sticking together! What could possibly go wrong? 

• “The Sudden Disappearance of Cell Service” → Typically, when characters need help the most, they find themselves in a dead zone.

• “The Final Girl” → The last surviving female character, who typically confronts the antagonist. 

• “It’s Just a Prank!” → Characters scare one another, only to reveal it was a harmless prank, typically before something truly terrifying happens. There’s nothing like a jumpscare to lighten the mood! Although, I sure don’t want to be around when the actual problem shows up… 

• “Abandoned/Old Locations” → Spooky settings like old houses, asylums, creepy cabins in the woods or an abandoned house on a desolate hill. 

• “The Cursed Object” → A seemingly innocent item—like a doll or a mirror—carrying a dark, malevolent history, that everyone, of course, feels compelled to touch.

How to Play 

1. Prepare Your Cards: Use the sample bingo sheets provided There are four different cards; take your pick! Or, why not have an overnight marathon and try them all?
2. Choose Your Films: Curate a list of horror movies that highlight these tropes— refer to the list posted for top-tier picks that are sure to guarantee you some bingo wins. 
3. Mark Your Cards: As you watch, keep an eye out for the tropes in action! Get those markers ready and prepare yourself for unexpected twists. Each card is printable, and can be classically solved through BINGO dabbers/stickers, or even a simple pen! 
4. How To  Win: Whoever makes a line first, whether horizontal, diagonal or vertical, wins!

Some Movies To Help 

1. The Cabin in the Woods (2011)→  Plays with many horror clichés, including characters splitting up and the “final girl.”
2. The Conjuring (2013) →  Includes a creepy house, supernatural elements and ominous warnings from locals.
3. The Scream Franchise (1996-2026) → Meta-horror franchise that highlights numerous tropes, including dumb decisions and iconic killers
4. The Halloween Franchise (1978-2022) → Follows the pursuit of Michael Myers, returning to his hometown to terrorize a group of teenagers on Halloween night. 
5. The Scary Movie Franchise (2000-2013) → Hilarious parody mocking and exaggerating classic horror films, blending familiar tropes with the classics.

The Bingo Sheets

Find the four print-friendly bingo sheets below.

Grab your favourite snacks, gather your friends and prepare for a night of thrills and chills!  Happy viewing, and may your bingo card be ever in your favour.