Silent Hill f's Soulslike Gameplay Intensifies Action

Silent Hill f introduces more action-focused gameplay to differentiate itself from being a mere Silent Hill 2 imitation. Continue reading to explore the developers’ approach to gameplay design and see how the community is responding to this evolved combat system.

Silent Hill f Emphasizes Action Over Traditional Gameplay Styles

Steering Clear of Silent Hill 2 Repetition and Attracting Modern Players

Silent Hill f adopts a more action-driven gameplay style, designed to appeal to contemporary audiences while setting itself apart from earlier entries in the series. In a GameSpark interview on August 1, the development team shared insights about the newest chapter in this iconic horror franchise.

While past games like Silent Hill 2 revolved around psychological horror through intricate puzzles, Silent Hill f leans into intense action, requiring players to confront monstrous bosses as part of the narrative.

Series Producer Motoi Okamoto expressed in Japanese that the team aimed to "incorporate the excitement and satisfaction of action." With NeoBards Entertainment leading development, he is optimistic about the successful execution of this fresh direction.

He elaborated, "Given the rising popularity of responsive action games among younger players, integrating such mechanics should engage those new to the series."

Game Director Al Yang echoed this, emphasizing the goal to innovate rather than replicate Silent Hill 2. He added, "Building on Okamoto’s point, we don’t want to simply recreate SILENT HILL 2 or produce endless clones. To honor the legacy without repeating it, we've shifted toward a more action-centric design."

Okamoto reiterated this vision in a PlayStation blog post on June 4, describing the game as a "groundbreaking new entry." He noted, "The combat system is distinctly crafted. Encounters are as demanding as the personal struggles protagonist Hinako faces. Compared to last year’s Silent Hill 2, the focus is more on melee combat and dynamic action."

Even as the game introduces mechanics to welcome newcomers, writer Ryukishi07 likened the experience to a layered "salad dressing" of psychological and supernatural horror, ensuring the series' terrifying essence not only remains but intensifies.

Fans Draw Parallels Between Silent Hill f and Soulslike Games

Following early previews and leaked footage from the game’s initial hours, players have been actively discussing Silent Hill’s revamped combat. Game Informer’s hands-on session highlighted "hints of the subgenre popularized by From Software," pointing to similarities with Soulslikes.

Soulslikes, a niche within action RPGs, are recognized for their unforgiving difficulty and deliberate, stamina-managed combat—a style championed by FromSoftware’s Souls series. As Silent Hill f integrates comparable mechanics into its battles and boss encounters, the community remains split on KONAMI’s new direction.

On Reddit, debates have emerged over whether labeling the game a Soulslike is accurate. Some users argued that the term is "used too loosely," adding that "not every game with dodge mechanics qualifies as a soulslike."

Conversely, several players see the shift as a positive evolution, enhancing melee dynamics and overall engagement. Yet, others remain cautious, concerned that the added action might dilute the atmospheric horror the franchise is known for.

Despite differing views on gameplay, excitement is building for a new kind of Silent Hill horror experience. With Ryukishi07 penning a haunting story and NeoBards Entertainment shaping a combat system true to the game’s tone, KONAMI has assembled a talented team to bring the series’ signature fear to a Japanese setting.

Silent Hill f arrives on September 25 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Digital Deluxe Edition purchasers can start playing on September 23. For the latest updates on Silent Hill f, check out the article linked below!