Five Nights at Freddy’s (FNAF), created by Scott Cawthon and released in 2014, is a landmark indie horror franchise that reshaped survival-horror design, narrative delivery, and community-driven mythmaking. Centered on tense atmosphere, limited player agency, and animatronic antagonists, FNAF spans multiple games, books, and a growing media presence. This article outlines the series’ design, themes, cultural impact, criticisms, and enduring appeal. Contact: fnafgameus@gmail.com