Silent Hill f: KONAMI Returns to its Japanese Horror Roots with a Chilling New Standalone Chapter
After the widely praised Silent Hill 2 remake, KONAMI is expanding the iconic horror franchise with an entirely new installment titled Silent Hill f. This marks a significant return to form for the series both geographically and stylistically as KONAMI aims to refocus the brand's identity by deeply rooting this new entry in Japanese horror tradition. Developed by Hong Kong-based NeoBards Entertainment, this standalone chapter is part of KONAMI’s broader plan for the Silent Hill universe, alongside the Silent Hill 1 remake by Bloober Team and the spin-off Townfall developed by Screen Burn.
A Distinctly Japanese Horror Experience
One of the most distinguishing aspects of Silent Hill f is its cultural direction. KONAMI, concerned that the franchise had drifted too far into Western horror stylings, chose to embrace its Japanese roots for this title. Set in 1960s Japan in the fictional mountain town of Ebisugaoka inspired by Kanayama, Gero in the Gifu Prefecture the game captures an eerie landscape cloaked in fog and filled with unsettling tranquility. More than 91% of the real-life area is covered in forests and mountains, making it the perfect backdrop for psychological horror.
The story follows Hinako Shimizu, a high school student whose mundane existence is upended when her town falls into an unnatural silence beneath a creeping fog. Written by Higurashi: When They Cry creator Ryukishi07, the narrative delves into horror through beauty and perfection evoking unease from the sublime. Ryukishi07 emphasizes that Hinako is a strong protagonist who actively makes choices instead of simply reacting to events, and that the narrative will be completely standalone, with subtle nods to the Silent Hill universe.
Music and Audio: Akira Yamaoka Returns
Legendary composer Akira Yamaoka returns to score Silent Hill f, promising an auditory experience infused with the essence of Japanese horror. Yamaoka and the sound design team even traveled to Ebisugaoka’s real-life inspiration to capture authentic environmental sounds. This dedication ensures a chilling and immersive atmosphere true to the setting’s cultural and emotional depth.
Release Date, Pricing & Editions
Silent Hill f will officially release on September 25, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Pre-orders are now available and come with:
White Sailor School Uniform costume
Omamori: Peony item
Item Pack (Shriveled Abura-age, Divine Water, First Aid Kit)
Two editions are available:
Standard Edition: $69.99
Deluxe Edition: $79.99, including:
Digital art book
Digital soundtrack
Pink rabbit costume
48-hour early access (starting September 23)
Gameplay & Mechanics
While gameplay footage remains scarce, what has been confirmed follows traditional Silent Hill mechanics: complex puzzles, psychological horror, and grotesque monsters. Expect methodical exploration, unsettling environments, and likely some innovative takes on combat and survival horror due to its Japanese influence. According to the developers, the game will not be a direct sequel, and will instead offer a standalone experience both narratively and mechanically.
Technical Specs & Performance
Built on Unreal Engine 5, Silent Hill f promises cutting-edge visuals and technical sophistication. PC requirements were revealed earlier this year, offering flexibility even for mid-range systems.
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OS: Windows 11 x64
CPU: Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
GPU: GeForce GTX 1070 Ti / Radeon RX 5700
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 50 GB (SSD recommended)
Performance Target: 720p, 30 FPS (Performance settings)
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OS: Windows 11 x64
CPU: Intel Core i7-9700 / AMD Ryzen 5 5500
GPU: GeForce RTX 2080 / Radeon RX 6800XT
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 50 GB (SSD required)
Performance Target: FullHD or 4K with DLSS, 60 FPS (Performance), or 30 FPS (Quality)
The game will support NVIDIA DLSS and likely AMD FSR and Intel XeSS, though frame generation capabilities have not yet been confirmed.
As Silent Hill f approaches release, it signals a new but faithful evolution of the franchise honoring its origins while crafting a bold narrative and visual identity rooted in Japanese horror. With masterful storytelling, atmospheric audio, and a promise of standalone horror, this title is poised to become a defining moment in KONAMI’s modern horror legacy.
What are your thoughts on Silent Hill f’s return to Japanese horror roots? Are you excited to explore Ebisugaoka and unravel the mystery behind the silence? Share your thoughts below.
