Higurashi and When They Cry creator Ryukishi07 has discussed his work on Silent Hill f, comparing the game's blend of supernatural and psychological horror to... salad dressing.
The anticipation for Silent Hill f—the upcoming title reviving a franchise dormant since 2012's last mainline entry—is already immense. However, writer Ryukishi07 has remained relatively quiet, making his recent appearance at Anime Expo 2025 in Los Angeles all the more significant.
During a panel with producer Motoi Okamoto and composer Akira Yamaoka, Ryukishi07 explained he approached this project differently from his novel writing, centering the narrative on a specific, core theme.
As reported by Famitsu via Automaton, Ryukishi07 stated that players may initially struggle to separate the game's supernatural elements from its psychological horror, as they will feel intertwined. As the story unfolds, however, the distinction will become clearer, a process he likened to the separation of ingredients in a salad dressing.
He elaborated on the metaphor, explaining it’s akin to oil and vinegar in a dressing eventually separating after being mixed, representing how the two horror styles will feel distinct by the game's conclusion.
If this comparison seems unusual, you're not alone. Ryukishi07 added that while players will uncover facts and clues about the town of Ebisugaoka, much will be left open to interpretation and speculation—a hallmark of the Silent Hill experience that fans cherish.
He also revealed that Silent Hill f's narrative isn't solely about horror and torment. Like previous series entries, it will explore deeply human themes such as love, sadness, and the complexities of the human condition.
Silent Hill f is not a sequel to any existing Silent Hill games. Publisher Konami has confirmed on X/Twitter that it is a standalone story "independent from the series" and a "completely new title" designed to be enjoyed even by those new to the franchise, diverging from the series' typical American resort town setting.
Okamoto noted that the terror is amplified by challenging combat, a visual and musical "juxtaposition between beauty and terror," and the "terrible beauty of the game’s monster design." He mentioned that even the puzzles are rooted in psychological anguish.
Set in 1960s Japan, Silent Hill f follows teenager Hinako Shimizu as she grapples with immense social and familial pressures. As shown in the Japanese reveal trailer, it is the first Silent Hill game to receive an 18+ rating in Japan. The game launches on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S on September 25.
