The recent showcase by Sony during the June 2025 State of Play unveiled exciting new details about the upcoming game, Silent Hill f, including our first look at the protagonist, Hinako, in action. This reveal included a significant focus on combat, which may come as a surprise to fans given that the Silent Hill series has traditionally emphasized environmental storytelling and psychological horror.
Producer Motoi Okamoto shared insights on PlayStation Blog, indicating that Silent Hill f will present “unique combat” experiences that parallel the challenges faced by the protagonist in her life. He noted that the gameplay will emphasize melee combat and be more action-oriented than the previous title, Silent Hill 2 Remake, which itself had already introduced a higher level of combat.
Okamoto also spoke about the game’s aesthetic, highlighting the “juxtaposition between beauty and terror” in its visuals and music, alongside the “terrible beauty” of the game’s monster designs. He mentioned that even the game’s puzzles would be steeped in themes of psychological anguish, promising a truly chilling experience.
Importantly, Silent Hill f is not a sequel but rather a standalone story set in 1960s Japan. It will follow Hinako Shimizu, a teenager grappling with societal expectations and pressures. The narrative is crafted by Ryukishi07, known for the critically acclaimed When They Cry visual novel series. This title stands out as it has received an 18+ rating in Japan, marking it as the first in the franchise to do so.
Overall, Silent Hill f is positioned to attract not only long-time fans of the series but also newcomers, inviting a broader audience into its haunting world. The anticipation builds as the game aims to create a unique blend of stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and a deep psychological narrative, signaling an exciting new chapter for the Silent Hill franchise.