Game Reviews

[MidgarFanatic]

I simply have to play at least one of these games some day. They have always eluded me, even though I have been aware of them ever since the series' inception. I am not averse to stories with dark, depressing, and disgusting atmospheres (I believe, in many ways, these kinds of styles can be beautiful in their own way); however, I think what has kept me away from these games more than anything is how much they "look" like other games which I simply cannot stand... mostly first-person shooters like Doom and Quake (and I do apologize to any fans of these games, just my opinion). But I have come to learn that the Silent Hill games are very different and have much more to offer than these dirty shooters, and I'm sure I would very much enjoy playing one of these games on a dark and stormy night. XD

The only games of the survival horror genre that I have ever played are the Alone In The Dark games, and I am currently playing the fifth and latest installment for the X-Box 360. It has many elements which you mention here, such as monsters being able to attack you from just about any angle, and at any time... and using just about anything you can find as a potential weapon. In many ways, the environment becomes as much a character as the protagonist, and it can either be your best friend, or your spiteful enemy. They are amongst that class of games which are very enjoyable albeit riddled with flaws... A LOT of flaws; and feature a lot of elements which SH seems to have perfected.

I think the storylines usually do suffer, which can also be frustrating for those of us who predominantly play RPGs... as games like this are meant to terrify you, and complex story developments cannot survive when we are impatiently waiting for the next thrill. But they probably aren't really necessary in SH; and after all, there is nothing wrong with simple storylines, as long as they do not lead to Pyramid-Head sized plot holes. XD

Hmm.. yes, the camera angle. When are they gonna get this one right I ask ya? Whether you control it yourself, or have it move automatically to the AI's taste, I have yet to play a game that allows me to do exactly WHAT I want with the camera WHENEVER I want.

But anyways, I have not played any of the SH games... so I will shut-up. But another great review T, thank you. Although I have to admit, I am probably not likely to pick this one up as my first SH game, even though it is, as you mentioned, a prequel of sorts. If I am to play one, I would like to start where you all fans did... with SH I. But it is nice to read where the series has taken itself.

[Terminal Est]

(I believe, in many ways, these kinds of styles can be beautiful in their own way)

Everything about Silent Hill is. To me it is the most artsy game ever, and not just with looks and story, but with presentation and concept. Which is why Origins is a bit disappointing.

I think the storylines usually do suffer, which can also be frustrating for those of us who predominantly play RPGs... as games like this are meant to terrify you, and complex story developments cannot survive when we are impatiently waiting for the next thrill. But they probably aren't really necessary in SH; and after all, there is nothing wrong with simple storylines, as long as they do not lead to Pyramid-Head sized plot holes. XD

Ha ha, oh no no no no, this is probably the most complex set of stories you will EVER encounter in any game, aside from Metal Gear Solid.
The stories are not so much complex as in plot twists all over the place, but because of how they are told. A lot of symbolism is used, and when you think it makes no sense, a bit of thinking and damn, you do not wish to go to sleep anymore.

Even if what you are supposing, until you finish the game, is completely wrong.

The game gets into your mind, it completely fucks with you, and that is rare for a game to be able to do outside of playing it.

The stories are very unique, and while obviously, they do not play out like a role playing game, fans of role playing games usually commend the plots for being so deep, and detailed.

And please, do not worry. This is not at all, not one thing like a shooter. Aye aye, the whole control and gameplay mechanics are broken, always have been, but it makes sense when you know that your protagonists are you and me. They are not elite commandos or destined saviours, they do not know how to fight, which only adds realism to the game.

I so strongly urge you to play at least the first two games, they are completely fantastic.

For a horror series which does not center around gore as its highlight, this does more than a perfect job at scaring the crap out of me.