Some critics have finally gotten their hands on Silent Hill F—and it sounds like horror fans are in for something special when it launches on September 25 for next-gen consoles and PC.
Early impressions highlight a mix of classic Silent Hill vibes with bold new ideas, from terrifying exploration to psychological storytelling. Here are the seven most interesting things critics have said so far:
1. Quality You’d Never Guess Came From a New Dev Team
Even though Silent Hill F isn’t developed by Bloober Team (the studio behind the Silent Hill 2 remake), the game still delivers top-tier quality. Taiwanese studio Neobards has stepped in—and critics say the results are impressive.
From the haunting atmosphere to the combat and visuals, everything feels polished and true to the spirit of Silent Hill.
2. A Beautifully Creepy Japanese Town That Feels Alive
The game is set in a fictional 1960s mountain town called Ebisugaoka—and it’s dripping with style and authenticity. Think narrow alleyways, wooden houses, and classic Japanese tools.
The game utilizes an immersive over-the-shoulder camera with no distracting HUD, providing players with a more personal connection to the world. You play as Hinako, a teenage girl whose presence and struggles mirror the eerie town around her.
Even though the devs aren’t Japanese, they drew inspiration from games like Shenmue and Ghostwire: Tokyo to create a believable setting.
3. Exploration Isn’t Just Background—It’s the Heart of the Game
Critics say exploration is a huge part of Silent Hill F—more so than in Silent Hill 2. While that game focused on indoor spaces, here you’ll spend a lot of time roaming the town, solving puzzles, and uncovering secrets.
IGN pointed out that there’s a perfect balance between outdoor wandering and puzzle-solving inside traditional Japanese buildings.
One standout area is a school that functions like a dungeon, filled with creepy vibes and layered puzzles, much like the old-school Silent Hill hospitals or hotels.
4. A Twisted Psychological Story Full of Anxiety and Pain
Hinako’s story starts as a runaway teenager’s lonely journey—but it quickly spirals into psychological horror. Relationships get weird. Characters act in unpredictable and creepy ways.
The game’s puzzles are tied to Hinako’s trauma and memories, making the story feel more personal and emotionally intense.
5. Narrative Design That Keeps You Guessing
Hinako carries a journal where she writes about people, places, and events. But here’s the twist—some of her notes change as the story progresses.
This clever mechanic makes players constantly second-guess what’s real and encourages them to dig deeper into the mystery.
6. Brutal Close Combat With a Strategic Twist
There are no guns—at least in the version critics played. Combat is up-close and gritty, using things like knives, bats, and sticks.
Weapons break down over time, forcing you to think smart, repair what you can, and scavenge constantly. There’s also a stamina system and a resource-exchange mechanic for upgrades and gear.
And yes—there’s an alternate world packed with creepy characters and rare weapons. Some of the boss fights have a Souls-like challenge, but without feeling unfair or punishing.
7. Around 12 Hours of Gameplay + Multiple Endings
Critics report the game clocks in at about 12 to 13 hours, depending on your playstyle. And like past Silent Hill games, Silent Hill F features multiple endings—including the series’ signature comedic “UFO Ending.”
Final Thoughts
Silent Hill F seems to be shaping up as a fresh yet faithful addition to the legendary horror franchise. From its unique Japanese setting to its smart combat and psychological depth, it’s already turning heads—and the full experience drops this September.
Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to launch.
