Konami’s Silent Hill f takes the classic horror series to 1960s Japan, combining psychological terror with cultural symbolism under the creative direction of Ryukishi07
Silent Hill f, first revealed in 2022, is making its way to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. This new installment shifts the series to 1960s Japan, offering a fresh setting while maintaining the psychological horror that defines the franchise.
Set in the fictional town of Ebisugaoka, inspired by Kanayama in Gifu Prefecture, Silent Hill f follows protagonist Shimizu Hinako as her secluded hometown is consumed by a mysterious fog. As the fog thickens, Hinako must navigate the increasingly nightmarish landscape, solving puzzles and confronting monsters to survive.
“Regardless of its new setting in Japan, this is without a doubt a Silent Hill game,” says series producer Motoi Okamoto. “Silent Hill f’s mixture of beautiful and terrifying visuals gives new life to Silent Hill as a Japanese-style horror game.”
The game brings together notable talent in the horror genre. Ryukishi07, creator of the “Higurashi When They Cry” visual novel series, serves as scriptwriter. His involvement suggests a deeply psychological narrative, focusing on characters struggling with what he describes as “the evil within themselves.”
“Of these two interpretations, if we consider the latter to be closer to the core of Silent Hill, then we can see how this game is very much a Silent Hill,” Ryukishi07 explained during the Silent Hill Transmission event. The creator reportedly worked so hard on the story that he stated, “I don’t think I would mind if it was the last thing I ever wrote.”
Legendary composer Akira Yamaoka returns to create the haunting soundscape for the game’s Fog World. He’s joined by Kensuke Inage, known for Dynasty Warriors, Tekken 8, and Samurai Shodown, who will compose music for the Otherworld sections. This dual approach to the soundtrack aims to create contrast between the game’s different realms, enhancing the psychological tension through sound.
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The game’s website features an unusually strong content warning that’s catching attention even among horror veterans. “This game is set in Japan in the 1960s and contains depictions based on the customs and culture of that time,” Konami’s disclaimer reads, adding that it includes “depictions of gender discrimination, child abuse, bullying, drug-induced hallucinations, torture, and graphic violence.”
The warning even suggests players “take a break” if they feel uncomfortable—an indication of the game’s intense approach. “If you feel uncomfortable at any point while playing, please take a break from playing or speak to someone you trust,” the disclaimer states. Silent Hill f has received an 18+ rating in Japan, a first for the series, further suggesting more mature content than previous entries.
The trailer showcases visual elements that blend beauty and horror. Red spider lilies, flowers that symbolize death and rebirth in Japanese culture, feature prominently. The game’s monster designs draw from Japanese folklore while maintaining the psychological horror aesthetic that has made the series a survival horror staple since its debut on the original PlayStation.
Shimizu Hinako is described as a “girl struggling under the pressure of expectations from her friends, family, and society” who “now hardly smiles.” This points to themes of social pressure and identity crisis, continuing the series’ tradition of psychological depth beneath its surface horror.
In true Silent Hill fashion, the real horrors seem to extend beyond just monster designs and spooky environments. The game appears set to tackle social issues from 1960s Japan as part of its narrative, though Konami clarifies that these depictions “do not reflect the opinions or values of the developers or any individuals involved.”
No release date has been announced yet for Silent Hill f, but horror fans can look forward to its eventual launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The recent showcase at Konami’s Silent Hill Transmission event has only heightened anticipation for this next chapter in the iconic horror franchise.
FAQ
When will Silent Hill f be released?
No official release date has been announced yet for Silent Hill f. The game was first revealed in 2022 and recently showcased in Konami’s Silent Hill Transmission event, but Konami has not provided a specific launch window.
What platforms will Silent Hill f be available on?
Silent Hill f will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via both Steam and the Epic Games Store.
Who is developing Silent Hill f?
The game is being developed by NeoBards Entertainment, with Motoi Okamoto serving as the series producer. The script is written by Ryukishi07 (creator of “Higurashi When They Cry”), and the music is composed by Akira Yamaoka (longtime Silent Hill composer) and Kensuke Inage.
How does Silent Hill f connect to previous games in the series?
While Silent Hill f maintains the core psychological horror elements of the franchise, it features a new setting (1960s Japan) and new characters. The game appears to be a standalone entry rather than a direct sequel to previous Silent Hill titles.
What is the story of Silent Hill f about?
Silent Hill f follows Shimizu Hinako, a young woman whose secluded town of Ebisugaoka is consumed by a mysterious fog that transforms it into a nightmare. The story explores themes of betrayal, friendship, and emotional struggle, with Hinako described as “struggling under the pressure of expectations from her friends, family, and society.”
Why is Silent Hill f rated 18+ in Japan?
Silent Hill f has received an 18+ rating in Japan (a first for the series) due to its mature content. The game includes depictions of gender discrimination, child abuse, bullying, drug-induced hallucinations, torture, and graphic violence, according to official warnings from Konami.