After the announcement of the nominees for the 2025 Game Awards, the horror game Silent Hill f was notably absent from the prestigious Game of the Year category, leading to discussions about the game’s unique qualities and its reception within the gaming community. This latest installment in the beloved franchise, the first mainline entry in 13 years, has garnered both acclaim and criticism since its release.
Many players, including those who completed the game’s intricate challenges such as the “scarecrow puzzle,” felt a strong connection to the game. It stands out not only for its visually stunning graphics but also for its innovative setting and a refreshed combat system that has divided fan opinions. Despite these strengths, the game’s approach to storytelling and endings may have hindered its chances for top honors.
Silent Hill f’s combat mechanics have sparked controversy, particularly its structure surrounding multiple endings. Upon completing the game for the first time, players experience a shared ending cutscene that is brief and leaves them with more questions than answers. To unlock additional endings, players must replay the game multiple times, meeting specific conditions and often investing an additional 32 to 40 hours.
This requirement has proven daunting for many players. Current statistics indicate that approximately 59% of players on PlayStation 5 have completed the game, while only 30% have obtained the sacred weapon necessary for two alternate endings. Such figures suggest a significant portion of the player base may have been deterred by the repetitive nature of the task.
The default ending, which many describe as underwhelming, has drawn comparisons to a film’s post-credits scene rather than a satisfying conclusion. While Baldur’s Gate 3 received critical acclaim and won Game of the Year in 2023, its multiple endings provided closure on the first playthrough, a feature that Silent Hill f lacks. Previous entries in the Silent Hill franchise, including the acclaimed Silent Hill 2, offered players a complete narrative experience during their initial playthroughs, making the abrupt ending of Silent Hill f feel even more jarring.
Despite the criticisms, Silent Hill f did manage to secure a nomination for Best Narrative at the 2025 Game Awards, a decision that has left many scratching their heads. The nomination highlights the complexity of evaluating horror games, which often face challenges in gaining recognition during awards season. The genre, while immensely popular among gamers, frequently finds itself overshadowed by other categories.
While the debate continues over Silent Hill f’s narrative structure and gameplay mechanics, it is evident that the game has made a significant impact within the gaming community. Players remain divided on its merits, and the absence of a Game of the Year nomination may reflect broader trends in how horror games are perceived in the industry. As the awards ceremony approaches, many will be watching closely to see how Silent Hill f’s legacy unfolds amidst this growing discourse.
