Silent Hill f Producer Reacts to Reviews and Combat Debate in Latest Interview

Metacritic Score and Critical Reception

Silent Hill f has earned a Metacritic score of 86/100 ahead of its release. Critics have praised its atmosphere, story, characters, and how it brings fresh takes to the horror genre. The move to set the game in 1960s Japan, rather than the usual Silent Hill setting, and the introduction of a new protagonist have drawn particular attention.
The combat system is the main point of contention with some reviewers finding it divisive. Many critics feel it introduces too much action. Still, the narrative written by Ryukishi07 is widely seen as a strong success and validates the decision to bring him on board.

Producer’s View on the Combat and “Soulslike” Label

Producer Motoi Okamoto expected some backlash over the changes, especially concerning the combat and the shift in setting. He acknowledges that mechanics such as dodge, stamina bars, and parrying are being labeled “soulslike” by some fans and media. He believes this label is misleading. Those combat elements are rooted in earlier entries in the Silent Hill series, not borrowed from games outside the franchise.
Okamoto recommends playing on “story mode” to best appreciate the intended Silent Hill experience. In that mode, the emphasis is more on atmosphere, character, and narrative rather than pure combat challenge.

Themes and Story Setting

The game takes place in a fictional Japanese town during the 1960s. The plot centers on Hinako Shimizu, a young woman who faces societal pressure and repression. Producer Okamoto explains the setting was chosen because it reflects a period in Japanese history where traditional norms were strongly enforced especially for women. The story is not just about external horror but about internal struggles, societal expectations, and personal courage.
The production team has expressed strong intention to restore the feel of Japanese horror, combining beauty and terror, drawing from classic horror elements while creating something new and atmospheric.

Final Thought

Silent Hill f is shaping up to be more than just another entry in a well-loved horror franchise. For players in Southeast Asia, especially those who appreciate psychological horror with weighty stories, this promises to be a standout. The combat changes will divide opinions but the storytelling, setting, and thematic depth seem likely to carry the game’s emotional weight and bring something truly fresh to horror fans.