Silent Hill f Review – Feminist Horror Redefines the Franchise in 1960s Japan
Silent Hill f has arrived as the latest chapter in the legendary horror franchise, and it is nothing short of unsettling, daring, and deeply psychological. Developed by NeoBards with a gripping story penned by Ryukishi07, the game brings the franchise into new territory while retaining its chilling essence. Set in 1960s Japan, this fresh setting pushes the series in bold directions while still capturing the haunting atmosphere Silent Hill is known for.
The story follows Hinako, a young girl grappling with family abuse, isolation, and the weight of a patriarchal society. Her nightmare begins when mysterious fog and crimson spider lilies engulf the town, unleashing grotesque monsters and eerie phenomena. Like past installments, Silent Hill f splits reality and nightmare into layers, but here players explore the fog-covered Ebisuoka town and a sinister dream realm tied to shrines. Survival hinges on solving puzzles, unraveling mysteries, and, above all, staying alive.
Gameplay shifts to an over-the-shoulder perspective reminiscent of modern survival horror. Combat is faster-paced than previous Silent Hill titles, balancing action and strategy. Hinako’s athletic background allows her to climb and maneuver fluidly, while combat relies on melee weapons such as pipes and blades. Timing dodges is crucial, rewarding players with slow-motion counter opportunities. Though not Souls-like, the combat demands observation and patience. Puzzles return with a vengeance, cleverly woven into the narrative and Hinako’s personal journey.
A standout feature is the faith system, where shrines serve not only as save points but also as places to exchange offerings for permanent perks. This adds a meaningful layer of progression, tying gameplay closely to the game’s themes of belief, survival, and resilience.
Silent Hill f redefines psychological horror by tying it to Hinako’s personal struggle as a young woman in a male-dominated society. The game boldly critiques gender roles of postwar Japan, using chilling symbolism like whispered voices, cryptic dolls, and abusive family dynamics. Hinako embodies the defiance of women seeking identity and strength in an era of suppression, resonating with feminist themes that make her one of the franchise’s most powerful leads.
Visually, the game crafts a disturbing yet beautiful atmosphere. Gore and body horror push boundaries, diverging from traditional Silent Hill yet keeping the series’ psychological roots alive. Performance mode on PS5 delivers smooth 60FPS, though minor flaws like stiff animations and lack of environmental detail slightly undercut immersion. Still, Akira Yamaoka’s score—blending traditional Japanese instruments with electric guitar—cements the game’s haunting identity.
Silent Hill f is a bold reimagining, proving the franchise can evolve while staying true to its roots. It trades the foggy Western towns for a Japanese setting steeped in culture and societal critique, offering players an unforgettable mix of horror, action, and storytelling. Hinako’s journey is both terrifying and inspiring, making this a must-play for horror fans and anyone seeking a narrative with real emotional weight.
Silent Hill f launches September 25 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, starting at 2,113 baht. A Digital Deluxe edition offers early access and exclusive outfits for those eager to dive in sooner.
