The text below was published on the Brazilian PlayStation Blog.
Silent Hill f, a standalone spin-off in the Silent Hill series developed by NeoBards, will launch for PlayStation 5 on September 25. Recently, we had the opportunity to play the title at the worldwide debut event in Tokyo, Japan.
Psychological Horror Set in 1960s Japan
The story begins when Hinako runs away from home to escape her angry father. Much like in Bloober Team’s 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake, Silent Hill f’s over-the-shoulder perspective allows you to move the camera with the right analog stick. This proximity to Hinako’s viewpoint heightens tension and immerses you deeper into the game. When you observe the forest surrounding the character, you get an overwhelming sense that danger is near, fostering feelings of isolation and entrapment.
Walk through the fog-shrouded town and survive lethal horrors from an over-the-shoulder perspective
The sky darkens as Hinako approaches a row of houses near the forest, and a mysterious fog emerges. The authentic 1960s Japanese town, rendered with vivid 4K visuals, conveys a sense of beauty and nostalgia. However, everything changes when you encounter Hinako’s childhood friends. The fog spreads throughout the town, and red spider lilies—”higanbana”—begin sprouting from the ground. Worse still: tentacle-shaped plants emerge en masse from walls. The town’s drastic transformation fascinated me.
Walk Through the Twisting, Maddening Streets of Ebisugaoka
Ebisugaoka features numerous narrow streets intersecting between clusters of houses. Blind spots and uneven terrain create a complex, maze-like environment. Unlike Silent Hill 2, there are no radios or items to warn of approaching enemies, so you must stay vigilant with eyes sharp and ears alert.
Puzzles Deeply Tied to the Story
Puzzles are a signature element of the Silent Hill series, and this game highlights them significantly. During our playthrough, we solved several puzzles inspired by Japanese culture—like correctly placing an “ema” (wooden wish plaque) or locating scarecrows meeting specific criteria. Many puzzles have strong narrative connections to writer Ryukishi07’s story, making their ties to characters’ emotions and identities fascinating to discover.
Close Combat Requires Quick Thinking and Strategy
Hinako is an ordinary Japanese teenager, making firearms unavailable—unlike previous series entries. This time, the focus is squarely on melee combat. During the demo, we wielded an iron pipe, scythe, dagger, and naginata.
Combat introduces a new Sanity system and counter-attacks to exploit vulnerable enemies. Pressing R2 during combat lulls triggers a counter—this costs no stamina and instantly defeats enemies when successful. A special effect highlights enemies vulnerable to counters. Though Focus mode consumes Sanity, it slows time and creates wider openings, making surprise attacks easier. Additionally, when Hinako’s Focus meter fills, pressing R1 unleashes a powerful attack dealing massive damage. However, this depletes her Maximum Sanity, making Focus harder to activate—requiring careful timing.
Pay Attention to Weapon Durability
In Silent Hill f, weapons have durability levels that degrade with use. Carrying spare weapons or repair kits is essential. Conversely, weapons like daggers and naginatas—exclusive to the Otherworld—have unlimited durability and can be freely used.
Face to Face with a Terrifying Monster Disguised as a Shrine Maiden
The demo climaxes in an intense battle between Hinako and a grotesque monster dressed as a shrine maiden. In the Otherworld, Hinako identifies this creature as “Sakiko.”
The maiden’s attacks have wide range, demanding full attention even at distance. She assaults Hinako from afar, forcing retreats, while disappearing to drain Sanity. However, if you spot the monster immediately upon reappearing, you can rush in for attacks during its vulnerable state.
After finishing Silent Hill f, I craved confronting more horrifying enemies, solving challenging puzzles, and exploring new map areas. The game releases for PS5 on September 25.
