Silent Hill f was initially intended to take place in the titular town, but Mount Fuji presented an unexpected obstacle. Discover how this influenced the game's final setting and meet the new characters central to its chilling narrative.
Silent Hill f: Setting and Character Insights
How Mount Fuji Altered Silent Hill f's Planned Location
Originally, Silent Hill f was conceived to be set in the "real" Silent Hill location, but Mount Fuji's imposing presence forced a change. In a recent Famitsu interview, the developers elaborated on this decision and the return of the iconic horror franchise.
While the chosen setting of Kanayama in Gifu Prefecture perfectly evokes the eerie atmosphere the team desired, they first considered a different region. Scenario writer Ryukishi07 revealed they looked at Shizuoka Prefecture, humorously dubbing it "Quiet Hill," but were ultimately overwhelmed by the majestic view of Mount Fuji.
Ryukishi07 explained, "Upon visiting, however, I felt Mount Fuji's presence as seen from Shizuoka was simply too powerful for the stage of 'Silent Hill.' The sacred peak looms over everything, which would undermine the game's signature fog-shrouded, oppressive worldview."
This sent the team searching for an alternative, leading them to the maze-like backstreets of Kanayama. "After scouting several locations," Ryukishi07 stated, "the grid-like layout of Kanayama's townscape felt intriguing, so I proposed it." Previously, the team visited the town to record ambient sounds and used historical references to authentically capture its 1960s aesthetic.
Connections to 'Higurashi: When They Cry'
Following recent character introductions on Silent Hill's official X (formerly Twitter) account, starting with protagonist Shimizu Hinako, fans noted parallels with Ryukishi07's famed work, "Higurashi: When They Cry." Many wondered if there was a direct narrative link.
Ryukishi07 clarified, "I did not write this scenario with 'Higurashi' as a foundation at all. This is a story born entirely within the world of 'Silent Hill.'" However, Producer Motoi Okamoto acknowledged that Ryukishi07's previous work was precisely why they approached him. Okamoto said, "After reading his tales of people tormented within a fog-enshrouded village, I was convinced he could create a wonderful 'Silent Hill,' so I reached out."
Character Roles and Introductions
Beyond the setting, fans are curious about the roles of Hinako's friends, especially Igarashi Sakuko, who features prominently in recent trailers. Her description reads: "Hinako's gentle, easygoing friend. A natural who claims to see fairies. As a shrine priest's daughter, she helps out in a miko outfit during festivals."
Okamoto elaborated that Sakuko represents "that one kid in every class fascinated by the occult," a common trope in Japanese school life. But within Silent Hill, this trait takes a darker turn. "The serious question becomes: are her visions mere playful delusions, or something terrifyingly real? This ambiguity gives the character depth," he stated.
Introductions were also shared for Iwai Shu, Hinako's childhood friend, and Nishida Rinko, another friend of both. Additionally, Ebisuoka Junior High School was described as a splendid institution that feels "somewhat out of place in the town."
As the game's launch approaches, Konami continues to unveil details for this new chapter in the classic series. With the developers promising "100% of the essence of Japanese horror," fans can anticipate a masterfully chilling thriller from one of Japan's premier horror writers.
Silent Hill f releases on September 25 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The Digital Deluxe Edition includes early access starting September 23. For the latest updates on Silent Hill f, explore our related articles below.
