As I visit haunts this season I ponder of the question of what type of mind come up with the themes. What is 'scary' is very personal.  Do you follow current trends so the masses will understand the concept?  Or do you lead them down a rabbit hole of personal fears?
This season I got to experience two that touched on deeply unsettling themes that worked so well, for me.
They might not have had the same impact had I attended when the throngs of screaming/running patrons were abundant.
I understand a good haunt is a balance between cost, profits and through-put; but for me it’s all about the immersion 
into a dark and demented realm.

Bugs n hisses
Furby