Silent Hill f is set to break new ground as it will not serve as a sequel to any previous Silent Hill games. Instead, it aims to emulate the standalone storytelling approach of Silent Hill 2 with its own unique narrative, described as "independent from the series." This announcement came directly from publisher Konami via X/Twitter, emphasizing that the latest entry into the iconic horror series will be "a completely new title" designed to be accessible and enjoyable even for those new to the Silent Hill universe.
While many entries in the series, such as Silent Hill 1, Silent Hill 3, and Silent Hill Origins, are interconnected, others like Silent Hill 2 and parts of Silent Hill 4: The Room and Homecoming have ventured beyond the traditional setting of the eerie east-coast American town. Konami's statement solidifies that Silent Hill f will require no prior knowledge of the series, despite its unique setting in 1960s Japan.
Set against the backdrop of 1960s Japan, Silent Hill f follows the journey of Shimizu Hinako, a teenager navigating the burdens of societal and familial expectations. The story is penned by Ryukishi07, known for the When They Cry visual novel series. As highlighted in the Japanese-language reveal trailer from March, Silent Hill f marks a significant shift by being the first Silent Hill game to receive an 18+ rating certification in Japan.
Currently in development, the rating for Silent Hill f is subject to change. However, it is poised to join the ranks of other mature-rated titles in the series, such as Silent Hill, Silent Hill 2, Silent Hill 3, and Silent Hill: The Room, which received CERO:C ratings in Japan (for ages 15 and up). Meanwhile, other international releases in the series have typically been rated CERO:C or CERO:D (for ages 17+). Silent Hill f will also carry a Mature rating in the U.S., PEGI 18 in Europe, and CERO:Z in Japan.
Although a release date for Silent Hill f has not yet been announced, fans are eagerly awaiting further details. Similarly, there's still no additional information on No Code's upcoming Silent Hill game, Townfall.