Fans of horror gaming often ask a simple but fascinating question: how many FNAF games are there? The Five Nights at Freddy’s (FNAF) series has grown far beyond its humble beginnings as an indie horror experiment into a massive multimedia franchise. Created by Scott Cawthon, this series has terrified and entertained millions worldwide. Over the years, FNAF has expanded into mainline games, spin-offs, VR titles, and even a feature film. In this guide, you’ll discover how many games exist, how they connect, and why this series continues to dominate the horror genre.
The Origins of Five Nights at Freddy’s
Before diving into the full list, it’s worth remembering how the series began. Scott Cawthon released the first Five Nights at Freddy’s in 2014. It was a simple point-and-click survival horror experience where players took on the role of a night security guard at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, monitoring cameras to avoid being caught by animatronic creatures.
The game’s unique blend of limited resources, tension, and jump scares made it an instant hit. Cawthon’s creative use of atmosphere and minimalism changed indie horror forever. This success led to rapid sequels, each expanding the lore and deepening the mystery behind Freddy Fazbear’s haunted animatronics.
Mainline FNAF Games
The core series currently includes eight mainline FNAF games, each introducing new mechanics and lore elements that keep fans engaged.
Five Nights at Freddy’s (2014)
The original title introduced players to the eerie world of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. Its simple premise and intense atmosphere defined the franchise’s identity.
Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (2014)
Released later the same year, FNAF 2 expanded gameplay by adding new animatronics, mask mechanics, and a deeper look into the franchise’s backstory.
Five Nights at Freddy’s 3 (2015)
This entry shifted the setting to a horror attraction based on the previous pizzeria events. It introduced Springtrap, a critical character in FNAF lore, and hinted at the haunted origins of the animatronics.
Five Nights at Freddy’s 4 (2015)
Set in a child’s bedroom, FNAF 4 delivered pure psychological horror. The game’s audio-based mechanics and chilling narrative blurred the lines between dream and reality.
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Sister Location (2016)
This instalment broke away from the static camera gameplay. Players explored multiple rooms and followed a story-driven narrative featuring new characters like Circus Baby.
Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria Simulator (2017)
This game initially appeared as a lighthearted management sim, but it quickly evolved into one of the darkest entries in the series. It served as a major turning point in the franchise’s lore.
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted (2019)
A VR-based instalment, Help Wanted, allowed players to experience classic FNAF scares in virtual reality. It reimagined earlier games with immersive 3D environments and introduced new meta-narrative elements.
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Security Breach (2021)
The most ambitious entry so far, Security Breach features an open-world environment inside a massive mall known as the Mega Pizzaplex. Players control Gregory, a young boy trying to escape the complex while hunted by Glamrock animatronics.
Spin-Offs and Related Titles
The FNAF universe extends far beyond the mainline series. Several spin-offs expand their lore, offer new gameplay styles, or explore different genres entirely.
FNaF World (2016)
Unlike the horror-driven main games, FNaF World is an RPG featuring cute, cartoonish versions of animatronics. It’s a lighthearted diversion that gives fans a break from the constant scares.
Ultimate Custom Night (2018)
This fan-favourite lets players face off against over 50 animatronics from across the franchise. It acts as a grand finale for long-time fans, mixing nostalgia with challenge.
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Special Delivery (2019)
A mobile AR game that brings the terror into your own environment. Players receive animatronic visits via augmented reality, creating an interactive horror experience.
FNAF: Into the Pit and Other Stories
While not video games, the Fazbear Frights book series expands on the FNAF universe, introducing alternate realities and hidden connections that fans love to analyse.
Ruin DLC (2023)
The Ruin DLC for Security Breach deepens the story and adds new gameplay sequences that reveal more about Gregory, the Pizzaplex, and lingering threats.
Counting Every FNAF Game So Far
So, how many FNAF games are there when you count everything?
If you include all mainline titles, spin-offs, and VR or AR releases, there are currently twelve official FNAF games released by Scott Cawthon and Steel Wool Studios. This count includes both the main entries and recognised spin-offs that contribute to the overall lore or fan experience.
However, the FNAF universe doesn’t stop growing. With each update, new hints emerge about future instalments. Fans constantly speculate about upcoming sequels, DLCs, and possible remakes.
The Evolution of FNAF Gameplay
Each new title in the FNAF series has expanded its design philosophy. The early games relied heavily on tension, minimal movement, and resource management. Over time, the series introduced more narrative depth, 3D exploration, and even free-roaming mechanics.
For example, Sister Location emphasised character interactions, while Security Breach shifted toward a full adventure experience. Help Wanted revolutionised immersion by translating the jump scares into VR, allowing players to directly engage with the animatronics.
This evolution mirrors the growth of the horror genre itself. FNAF began as a confined experience but evolved into an expansive universe of interconnected stories, each exploring new psychological and mechanical layers.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Few indie games have had the cultural impact of Five Nights at Freddy’s. Beyond the games themselves, FNAF spawned novels, fan theories, merchandise, and one of the most passionate online communities in gaming history.
The franchise’s lore has become a puzzle that fans love to solve. Countless YouTube creators analyse every frame of footage and every cryptic clue. This constant discussion keeps the community alive, ensuring that FNAF remains relevant nearly a decade after its debut.
The FNAF movie adaptation, released in 2023, brought the story to mainstream audiences, further strengthening the franchise’s legacy. It reintroduced Freddy Fazbear and his terrifying friends to both gamers and non-gamers alike, proving that the series’ appeal is universal.
What Makes FNAF Unique
At its core, FNAF succeeds because it plays on primal fears. The concept of being trapped, watched, and hunted resonates deeply. Each instalment adds new layers of unpredictability, ensuring the formula never feels stale.
The use of environmental storytelling, found footage-style audio logs, and layered symbolism gives fans endless theories to uncover. The simplicity of early titles contrasts beautifully with the complexity of recent releases, creating a full spectrum of horror experiences.
The Future of Five Nights at Freddy’s
While no official announcements have confirmed a new mainline game, speculation remains strong. Many believe future titles will continue expanding Security Breach’s storyline or dive deeper into the mysteries hinted at in the Ruin DLC.
Given the success of the movie and the ongoing fan engagement, more content — whether cinematic or interactive — seems inevitable. As technology advances, we might even see AI-driven animatronic behaviours or enhanced VR realism in upcoming releases.
The universe of Five Nights at Freddy’s is far from over. Every release opens new narrative doors, and every mystery sparks fresh curiosity.
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Conclusion
So, how many FNAF games are there? As of now, there are twelve official titles, including mainline entries, spin-offs, and virtual adaptations. From the original 2014 game to Security Breach and its expansions, FNAF has redefined indie horror.
It’s more than just a game series — it’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to evolve with each generation of players. Whether you’re discovering the series for the first time or revisiting its haunting world, the FNAF franchise remains a thrilling reminder of how creativity, atmosphere, and mystery can shape the future of gaming horror.
FAQs
How many FNAF games are there in total?
There are twelve official FNAF games, including main titles, spin-offs, VR, and AR versions.
What is the newest FNAF game?
The latest release is Five Nights at Freddy’s: Security Breach with its Ruin DLC expansion.
Who created the FNAF series?
The FNAF series was created by indie game developer Scott Cawthon in 2014.
What is the main story of FNAF?
FNAF follows haunted animatronics linked to dark events at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza.
Will there be more FNAF games in the future?
Yes, new projects are rumoured, and the FNAF universe continues to expand through updates and films.