Admittedly, I was skeptical when Silent Hill: Shattered Memories was first announced. Although Homecoming was a decent addition to the franchise, it failed to truly be the next definitive Silent Hill title. Then it was released that the next Silent Hill game would be on the Wii of all consoles. It sounded disastrous, but all my doubts were gone as soon as I saw more of the game at the Konami conference. See what the Baroness has to say about her experience with Shattered Memories at E3 2009!
It is my firm opinion that the relationship between power and terror is inseparable. It's simple fact that the more powerful you feel, the less you will be scared. To bring up Silent Hill: Homecoming again, the main character was a soldier. This meant that the combat scheme that some fans have always complained about had a reason to be fixed. The person you controlled was no longer an average joe, he was a trained fighter. So of course he could shoot a gun properly and swing weapons with better accuracy. However, I was always a fan of the older Silent Hills for the sole purpose that the worse my main character controlled, the harder it was to fight. The harder it was to fight the more terrified I became. I was never sure I would make it out alive, even against the most random corridor monsters. This is what I want in a true survival horror game. I want to be scared out of my wits. I don't want smooth combat and powerful weapon upgrades.
My point in saying all this is because Silent Hill: Shattered Memories brings to the table exactly what I desire in horror. There is no combat at all. That's right, you heard me, no combat. The entire gameplay relies on running away from the creatures hunting you. You must hide, bar, run, anything to keep the demons from smothering you to death. The only series I feel has even come close to this aspect is Fatal Frame. Those games are truly terrifying because your only weapon is a camera that you have to stand still and view through while being attacked. I think Silent Hill 4 also touched on this concept with the ghosts you could not kill, which is why I loved it. I think SH:SM is taking leaps and bounds forward in gamplay innovation, even if the graphics are somewhat of a step downward.
Other innovative facet of Shattered Memories gamplay is how it tailors itself to the player. Every run through begins with an interview with a therapist that asks you very personal questions. These questions will effect how the game plays and what you will come across. Everything is meant to scared you as much as possible. The Wii controls are integrated very well. Your flashlight is controlled by the Nunchuck in your non-dominant hand. It all feels very natural and is an amazing way to handle the light source. The puzzles are also well designed, and the addition of a cell phone that can take photos to your arsenal is refreshing.
Akira Yamaoka is once again returning for the score and sound design, and it is stellar as always. The story is based upon the first game, but the developers are stressing that this title is a "reimagining" and not a remake. The only elements that will be in common with the first Silent Hill is you are still Harry, and you are still looking for your daughter Sheryl. Everything else will supposedly be twisted somehow.
If anyone remembers, I did a write up about this game back in April. It was amazing to get my hands on it at E3, and I highly anticipate its release later this year!
E3 Trailer:
