KONAMI just dropped an electrifying SILENT HILL f Transmission, unveiling a whole new side of the fan-favorite horror series—and a setting that steps far outside the titular town for the very first time.
Welcome to Ebisugoka
Perhaps the biggest news from the showcase is the introduction of Ebisugoka, a fictional Japanese locale inspired by the real-life town of Kanayama in Gero, Gifu prefecture. The development team explained they wanted to focus on the “Japanese essence” that originally influenced SILENT HILL, but which has faded over time due to the series’ predominantly Western locales.
Higurashi When They Cry creator Ryukishi07 is at the narrative helm, and if you’re already picturing claustrophobic alleyways and uneasy, maze-like streets—yep, that’s exactly what we’re getting. The devs say Ebisugoka’s labyrinthine layout is meant to amplify tension and dread, making players second-guess every corner they turn.
Beauty in Terror
According to Ryukishi07, the guiding concept is “find the beauty in terror.” He wants moments that feel nearly perfect—yet carry a chilling undercurrent. Environments might first appear serene, but look closer, and you’ll discover something unsettling lurking just beneath the surface. This principle shapes SILENT HILL f at every turn, from monster design to storyline twists.
As with the rest of the series, psychological horror is a huge part of the experience. Expect to see NPCs muttering cryptic lines that seem nonsensical—at least at first. The idea is that, somewhere down the line, you’ll recall those fragments and realize exactly what they meant.
A New Protagonist
For the first time, SILENT HILL f puts players in the shoes of a primary female character, Shimizu Hinako. She’s an ordinary teen until a strange fog engulfs her hometown, morphing it into something horrifyingly unfamiliar. Clues are scarce, and she’ll need to piece them together if she wants to solve the town’s mysteries—and, of course, survive.
Soundscapes of Horror
Music has always been essential to SILENT HILL’s atmosphere, and for SILENT HILL f, composer Akira Yamaoka returns to lend his signature brand of chilling melodies. Joining him is Kensuke Inage, who’s handling what the devs call the “Fog World” or “Dark Shrine” segments. Both composers promise a blend of classic SILENT HILL ambiance and fresh Japanese influences, working hand-in-hand to craft an eerie and immersive sonic landscape.
A Truly Fresh Start
The development team emphasizes that, though deeply tied to SILENT HILL’s legacy, SILENT HILL f is a standalone story. That means newcomers can jump right in without needing prior knowledge. Meanwhile, longtime fans will appreciate the franchise’s hallmark grotesque imagery and psychological undertones—only this time, reimagined through a distinctly Japanese lens.
Ready to Wishlist?
Even though the showcase wrapped up without gameplay footage, it did offer glimpses of the unsettling environments and monstrous visuals that fans expect from SILENT HILL. If that’s piqued your interest, SILENT HILL f is already available to wishlist on Steam and is scheduled to launch on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
No word yet on an exact release date, but with the developer’s clear commitment to reviving the series’ essence—and their newfound Japanese setting—it’s safe to say that SILENT HILL f might just give us the fresh start we’ve all been craving. Keep your eyes open and your flashlight handy, because there’s never been a more chilling time to step into SILENT HILL.
