When first sitting down to play this game I had my expectations set to high due to the slue of game reviewers who had given it 10's across the board and I must say it deserves the praise it gets. From the moment I stepped into the eerie town of Silent Hill I know this was going to be one hectic journey. Enter James Sunderland the main protagonist whom after receiving a mysterious letter from his late wife is called to the fog ridden streets of Silent Hill where he must uncover the truth all the while being pursued by nightmares and the infamous Pyramid Head.
Gameplay wise it takes the early Resident Evil-esque style of fly on the wall fixed cameras which while it can be awkward it does create tension for those situations where you can here things creeping in the shadows but just can't quite spot them. But the heart of where all this horror stems from is its atmosphere. It's that special kind of feeling that tells you that you are truly alone in this bleak quest. The music score while scarce comes in when its needed and leaves just at the right time. Scratching sounds in the walls, distant moans and wails from shadowy corridors; it all melds together to keep you on edge while searching for answers. The first time through I was genuinely freaked out in some cases but I pushed through the fear and the end result was worth it.
This game defines the survival horror genre, at times you feel utterly helpless with your flashlight and single 2by4 as your only means of protection. No matter how old this game may become there will always be a place for it in my heart as one of the greatest games ever. A chilling atmosphere coupled with carefully positioned cameras and a great over arcing storyline makes this game one not to miss.
Platforms: PC, PS2 & PS3 HD release
Score: 9.8 / 10
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