Silent Hill f introduces more action-focused gameplay to set itself apart from a simple remake of Silent Hill 2. Learn about the developers' design philosophy and how fans are reacting to this shift in combat style.
Silent Hill f Adopts a More Action-Focused Playstyle Than Earlier Games
Setting Itself Apart from Silent Hill 2 and Welcoming New Players
Silent Hill f takes a more action-oriented direction, aiming to attract a fresh audience while carving out its own identity within the long-running horror series. Developers shared these insights in a GameSpark interview on August 1.
While past entries like Silent Hill 2 emphasized psychological horror through puzzles and atmospheric challenges, Silent Hill f pivots towards action, requiring players to confront monstrous bosses throughout the narrative.
Series producer Motoi Okamoto stated their goal was to "add the fun and thrill of action." With NeoBards Entertainment leading development, he expressed confidence in executing this new vision effectively.
He explained, "I believe satisfying, impactful action games are gaining popularity with younger audiences today. Integrating this kind of action will appeal to players who haven't tried the series before."
Game Director Al Yang added that the team aimed to create something original, not a carbon copy of Silent Hill 2. "Echoing Okamoto's point, we don't want to merely reproduce Silent Hill 2, and we can't keep making clones. To avoid repeating that monumental work, we chose to emphasize more action-oriented gameplay."
Okamoto reiterated this vision in a June 4 PlayStation Blog post, describing the game as a "groundbreaking new entry." He noted, "The game features distinctive combat. Encounters are as challenging as the personal obstacles protagonist Hinako must face. Combat will place greater emphasis on melee and feel more action-focused compared to last year's Silent Hill 2."
While introducing mechanics aimed at newcomers, writer Ryukishi07 described the game as a layered blend of psychological and supernatural horror, promising to uphold and even enhance the series' signature terrifying atmosphere.
Fans Draw Comparisons Between Silent Hill f and Soulslikes
Following previews of the game's first five hours, fans have been discussing the new combat approach, sparking widespread conversation. A recent Game Informer hands-on preview noted Silent Hill f has "shades of the subgenre popularized by FromSoftware," referring to Soulslikes.
Soulslikes are action RPGs known for high difficulty and deliberate, stamina-based combat, pioneered by FromSoftware's Souls series. As Silent Hill f adopts some elements of this style in its combat and boss battles, the community is divided on Konami's new direction.
On Reddit, debates emerged over whether comparing the game to Soulslikes is accurate. Many argued the term is "used too loosely," noting that "not every game with a dodge mechanic is a soulslike."
Other players welcomed the change, believing it could add depth to Silent Hill's melee system and make gameplay more engaging. However, some remain hesitant, concerned that a stronger action focus might dilute the core horror experience, even if the previews look entertaining.
Despite differing opinions on gameplay, fans are eager to experience a new chapter of Silent Hill horror. With acclaimed horror writer Ryukishi07 crafting the story and NeoBards Entertainment developing the unique combat, Konami has assembled a creative team to bring the series' iconic fear to a Japanese setting.
Silent Hill f launches on September 25 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Digital Deluxe Edition purchasers receive early access starting September 23. For the latest updates on Silent Hill f, check out our article below.
