Silent Hill f: A Bold Move That Must Succeed Following SH2 Remake

Among the anticipated releases from Konami, Silent Hill f stands out as particularly intriguing. This new chapter was revealed during the Silent Hill Transmission event of 2022 and is noted as the first fresh addition to the main Silent Hill series since 2012’s Silent Hill: Downpour. Neobards Entertainment, known mostly for supporting roles in big games like Resident Evil 2 (2019) and Marvel’s Avengers, is leading its development. Additionally, the script is penned by the renowned Japanese writer Ryukishi07, celebrated for his work on the When They Cry visual novels.

Diverging from the usual path, Silent Hill f isn’t set in the iconic American town of the series’ namesake. Instead, it transports players to Japan during the Showa period, spanning 1926 to 1989. This shift not only positions Silent Hill f as a prequel of sorts due to its mid-to-late-1900s setting but also makes it an ideal entry point for newcomers, as it doesn’t carry the heavy storyline baggage from previous installments. However, releasing it so soon after a remake of Silent Hill 2 might not sit well with those newly drawn into the series.

We should also temper our expectations for the release of Silent Hill f. Although a recent ratings board has sparked hopes of an imminent launch, it doesn’t necessarily ensure a quick release. The game’s timing is yet to be seen.

The Silent Hill 2 Remake, crafted by Bloober Team, proved to be a delightful comeback for the franchise’s dedicated fanbase, weary from past underwhelming titles like Silent Hill: The First Message and Silent Hill: Book of Memories. Surpassing expectations, the remake hit PS5 and PC with immense success last year, earning high praise from critics and fans alike, who heralded it as a standout horror game.

Bloober Team’s fidelity to the original Silent Hill 2 won over many. By offering an extended playtime and enhanced combat mechanics while preserving the core essence of the 2001 classic, the remake welcomed both seasoned fans and newcomers. Being one of the franchise’s fastest-selling games, it likely served as many players’ introduction to Silent Hill.

The success of the Silent Hill 2 Remake presents Silent Hill f with a tough act to follow. Given their contrasting styles, these two games might not capture the same audience. Where the remake leans into a psychological, Lynchian horror vibe similar to Twin Peaks, Silent Hill f draws inspiration from Japanese folk horror and broader East Asian mythology. Both styles offer unique experiences, but Silent Hill f might confound expectations following the remake.

Moreover, the whispered plans for remaking Silent Hill 1 and 3 with Bloober Team could further complicate the landscape for Silent Hill f. If these anticipated remakes align closely with the tone of Silent Hill 2, they might overshadow Silent Hill f, emphasizing its divergence. For many new to the series via classic-style games, Silent Hill f could risk being perceived as the odd one out.