The long-awaited Silent Hill f has received its first major review from Japanese publication Famitsu, and the results are highly encouraging for fans of the series. The outlet awarded the game an overall score of 36/40, with each of the four reviewers giving it a 9 out of 10. This marks the highest rating in the series to date, surpassing previous entries such as the original Silent Hill and Silent Hill 2, both of which scored 34/40. Even the remake of Silent Hill 2 fell slightly behind with a 35/40 rating.
According to Famitsu (via), a single playthrough of Silent Hill f will take around 12 to 13 hours. The review describes the story as a tragic and chilling narrative set in a rural Japanese town, which provides a fresh yet unsettling backdrop that ties closely to the franchise’s themes of isolation and fear. The publication praised the atmospheric visuals and sound design, noting that the grotesque yet beautiful graphics combined with Akira Yamaoka’s haunting soundtrack elevate the experience.
Gameplay impressions highlight a mix of strengths and quirks. The new “offering” system that strengthens the protagonist was considered engaging, although searching for these items sometimes slowed the pacing. Combat stood out with its use of parries and counterattacks, which can feel thrilling, though navigation and object interactions occasionally led to frustrations that the reviewers felt might even unintentionally enhance the horror. The difficulty settings were noted as limited, altering only the damage received rather than offering broader accessibility. Despite this, the multiple endings provide replay value for players seeking to uncover every outcome.
Set in 1960s Japan, Silent Hill f introduces protagonist Hinako Shimizu as she battles nightmarish creatures while unraveling the mysteries of the fog-covered town of Ebisugaoka. The shift to a Japanese setting was a deliberate move by Konami to restore the series’ cultural roots, with acclaimed writer Ryukishi07 penning the narrative and series veteran Akira Yamaoka returning to compose the soundtrack.
With Famitsu’s glowing review, Silent Hill f now holds the distinction of being the highest-rated entry in the franchise’s history. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, it appears to be shaping up as a significant release when it launches on September 25, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
