Summary
Developer Bloober Team’s remake ofSilent Hill 2is one of the most anticipated games of the year. Through the years, there have been plenty of horror games that have secured a passionate following, andSilent Hill 2is a title that is beloved by many fans of the genre. Due toSilent Hill 2being such a special game to so many, there are concerns and high expectations regarding the remake, especially since some surprising changes have been made.
So far, the most obvious change from the original game isSilent Hill 2’s new camera angle. Originally, the game featured a dynamic camera angle that helped build tension. However, now,Silent Hill 2’s remake will have an over-the-shoulder third-person camera perspective, a laResident Evil 4. This change was hugely controversial since the original camera angle helped create the game’s tone. It’s unclear how many changes Bloober Team will make toSilent Hill 2, but the overwhelming use of fog needs to remain a vital part of the gameplay.
Silent Hill 2’s Fog is Practically Its Own Character
There are some aspects ofSilent Hill 2that many see as essential to the game’s tone. The specific camera angle was one of these, which makes its omission really concerning.AsSilent Hill 2’s October release date draws closer, those intrigued by the remake will hopefully get another preview of what the game has to offer, and there will hopefully be plenty of fog.
In the original game, a thick blanket of fog covered the map of the titular town of Silent Hill. Not only was its use practical for developers, but it ultimately brought a unique level of dread to the game, since it was impossible for players to see even a few feet in front ofprotagonist James Sunderland. It has become one of the most iconic fixtures ofSilent Hill 2, and foregoing this feature could be removing a vital organ to how the game’s story is told.
Silent Hill 2’s original developers, Team Silent, implemented the fog to sidestep hardware limitations, but it ultimately became a notable part of the game’s fabric.
Silent Hill 2 Remake’s Changes Could Actually Elevate the Fog
Being Faced With the Unknown
Based onearly looks at theSilent Hill 2remake, it’s clear that the oppressive fog will still be present in the game. The extent of its use, however, is unclear. Despite the worrisome change to the game’s camera angle, the new third-person perspective could actually make the foggy environment that much more terrifying. A third-person point-of-view will put players up close and personal with the fog obstructing one’s view, which could ultimately create extra tension. Inching through the clouded gray town while being unable to see what dangers lie ahead might make the camera angle update worth it.
A third-person perspective gives players more control over where James looks, but constantly looking around to see nothing but fog up ahead could be terrifically terrifying.TheSilent Hillfranchise needs to take some risks, and the camera angle change is hopefully a calculated move from Bloober Team to elevate other mechanics and features, like the fog.
There are certainelements theSilent Hill 2remake needs to nail, and the use of fog is definitely at the top of the list. As of now, there are valid concerns ahead of the remake’s launch, but only time will tell if Bloober Team pull off itsSilent Hill 2adaptation. With October quickly approaching, theSilent Hill 2remake will hopefully be a worthy game to get players in the Halloween spirit.
