Silent Hill f will deliver story-driven psychological horror, new 1960s Japan setting; pre-order details revealed
By Wright Robinson, August 26, 2025
The upcoming Silent Hill f has generated significant buzz among gamers, particularly regarding its combat mechanics, which some have likened to those found in Soulslike games. At Gamescom 2025, producer Motoi Okamoto and director Al Yang addressed these comparisons, emphasizing that while the game features stamina-based combat, dodging, and counterattacks, these mechanics are not exclusive to Soulslike titles. They highlighted that the game’s design remains true to the franchise’s psychological horror roots, focusing on narrative depth and atmospheric tension
A Return to Psychological Horror
Set in 1960s Japan, Silent Hill f departs from the traditional American setting of previous entries in the series. Players assume the role of Hinako Shimizu, a high school student navigating a fog-drenched, monster-infested world transformed by psychological and societal horror. The game features melee-focused combat with destructible weapons, intricate puzzles tied to emotional themes, and multiple endings.
The narrative, crafted by writer Ryukishi07, delves into themes of personal growth and societal pressure. It will set a fresh perspective within the Silent Hill universe. The gameplay alternates between eerie real-world locations and a haunting “Otherworld” filled with symbolic threats, reflecting the protagonist’s fears and cultural expectations.
Comparing Silent Hill f and Silent Hill 2 Remake
The 2024 remake of Silent Hill 2 received critical acclaim for its atmospheric design and faithful recreation of the original. However, some critics noted that it adhered too closely to the original, potentially limiting innovation.
In contrast, Silent Hill f aims to carve its own identity within the franchise. By introducing a new setting, cultural context, and narrative voice, the game seeks to offer a unique experience while maintaining the core elements that fans love. This approach demonstrates a willingness to evolve the series while respecting its roots.
Silent Hill Story Mode Offers the Intended Experience
The developers recommend playing the game in Story Mode for the most authentic experience. This mode emphasizes narrative and atmosphere, allowing players to engage with the psychological horror elements without focusing on combat difficulty.
Yang also mentioned that while Silent Hill f introduces updated gameplay mechanics, they were inspired by earlier franchise entries and aim to enhance immersion rather than transform the game into a Soulslike experience.
Silent Hill f Pre-Order: What Fans Need to Know
Silent Hill f is scheduled for release on September 25, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X. Silent Hill f pre-order options are available for digital and physical editions, with additional content such as digital art books and early access included in some packages. The Digital Deluxe Edition includes a digital art book, soundtrack, and an exclusive costume, while pre-orders unlock 48-hour early access before the official release.
Staying True to the Franchise’s Roots
Despite the inclusion of more combat-focused gameplay, Silent Hill f remains centered on psychological horror and narrative depth. Set in 1960s Japan, players take on the role of high school student Hinako Shimizu navigating a fog-filled town transformed by monsters and psychological disturbances.
The story, written by Ryukishi07, explores themes of personal growth and societal pressure, while the game combines melee combat, destructible weapons, and puzzles with traditional atmospheric horror elements.
The State of Horror Games in 2025
The horror game landscape in 2025 is experiencing a notable resurgence, with several highly anticipated titles set to release. Among these is Silent Hill f, scheduled for launch on September 25, 2025. This installment marks a significant departure from previous entries by embracing a fresh cultural perspective, immersing players in 1960s Japan and exploring themes rooted in Japanese horror traditions. Developed by NeoBards Entertainment and published by Konami Digital Entertainment, Silent Hill f aims to deliver a unique experience that stays true to the franchise’s psychological horror roots.
In addition to Silent Hill f, other notable horror games are set to release in the coming months. Hell Is Us, developed by Rogue Factor and published by Nacon, is scheduled for release on September 4, 2025. This action-adventure title introduces players to a world plagued by supernatural beings known as “Hollow Walkers,” offering a blend of melee combat and strategic gameplay.
Another highly anticipated release is Cronos: The New Dawn, developed and published by Bloober Team, set to launch on September 5, 2025. This survival horror game presents a retrofuturistic setting inspired by 1980s Kraków, featuring a narrative-driven experience that combines elements of body horror and strategic combat.
