‘Silent Hill 2 Remake’ Is Better Than The Original
Whether you agree or not, it’s clear that the original Silent Hill 2 is the most beloved game in the iconic series, with many people considering it not only a benchmark for storytelling, atmosphere, and psychological horror but also one of the best horror games of all time. So, when Bloober Team announced they were the developer for the remake, skepticism and criticism followed. Fans quickly voiced their concerns about Bloober’s catalog with the subpar Blair Witch game and the underwhelming The Medium. Yet, against all expectations, the Silent Hill 2 Remake is not only Bloober Team’s best work to date but also the series’ new best entry, even more so than the original.
While Dread Central’s comprehensive review of the Silent Hill 2 Remake will be available soon, it felt necessary to share my reflections after recently finishing the game with the original game having a deep impact on me in my early teens. My journey through this remake has been nostalgic and allowed me to explore the world of Silent Hill 2 in newer and better ways than the original ever could.
Modernizing a Classic
At its core, the original Silent Hill 2 was an excellent survival horror experience leaning into what makes the genre a powerhouse characterized by fixed camera angles, tank controls, and a scarcity of resources. This setup forced players to engage in strategic thinking and made every encounter a matter of life and death. It was an effective way to immerse players in the horror of the environment and evoke a sense of fear and anxiety. What threw fans of the series through a loop was that Bloober Team’s Remake was turning this all on its head.
One of the most noticeable changes is the camera perspective. Instead of fixed angles, Silent Hill 2 Remake uses a third-person, over-the-shoulder viewpoint instead of fixed angles, giving players a more dynamic and immersive experience. Movement has also transitioned to a fully 3D system, allowing for smoother navigation through the eerie landscapes of Silent Hill. While the limited supply of resources remains a staple of survival horror, the game introduces new elements that enhance the tension in ways the original never could.
The fog, a staple of the entire series, has been brought to life in the remake like never before. It now feels almost suffocating in its density, wrapping around the streets and buildings of Silent Hill like a heavy shroud. This oppressive atmosphere extends into the interiors of the buildings; while there is no fog the tight corners and cramped spaces evoke a sense of claustrophobia.
Bloober Team has done a masterful job of preserving and amplifying the aesthetics and ambiance of the original, creating a world that feels both familiar and unsettling. Unlike the original game, where players stepped out of the Otherworld back into Silent Hill, there was almost a sense of relief; the remake maintains a constant feeling of unease. Even when stepping back into the fog from the Otherworld, I was left with the impression that something was wrong, heightening the overall tension throughout the experience.
Combat Improvements
Another significant aspect of the remake is the overhaul of the combat system. In the original Silent Hill 2, melee combat was often stiff and unresponsive. However, Bloober Team delivered a fluid and impactful combat experience in the remake. Each swing of a weapon carries weight and urgency, making players feel as if they are fully invested in their struggle against the horrors that inhabit Silent Hill.
Enemies in the remake are more dynamic and possess tactics that challenge players to adapt their strategies. For instance, if players repeatedly strike a nurse, she can grab their weapon mid-swing, pushing James back, which creates an opening for them in an almost counter-attack that lends a sense of urgency and forces players to rethink their approach.
Expanding the Story
While Bloober Team hasn’t touched the core narrative of Silent Hill 2, they’ve taken to expanding and fleshing out various locations and lore. Previously brief or vague moments have been thoughtfully fleshed out, enhancing their emotional impact and believability without altering the fundamental storyline. For example, when James reaches the top of the hospital where he gets thrown off the roof by Pyramid Head in the original, now when visiting the roof, you can see a bent fence in place of the pivotal scene atop the hospital, suggesting that prior events have transpired before the moment that unfolds. This subtle yet effective addition pays homage to the original while providing a fresh perspective on familiar moments.
Additionally, the remake allows for greater exploration of the town, transforming it into a fully realized environment that feels lived-in and authentic. Players can spend more time in various locations, deepening their connection to the world and enriching the narrative. This expanded scope enhances the overall atmosphere, making Silent Hill feel like a place with a rich history and backstory rather than merely a backdrop for horror.
Bloober Team has gone above and beyond to honor the legacy of the original Silent Hill 2. The remake builds upon the foundation established by Team Silent, creating a more engaging and thoughtful experience for newcomers and longtime fans. The balance of modern design sensibilities with respect for the original’s core themes demonstrates a deep understanding of what made Silent Hill 2 so special in the first place.
Silent Hill 2 Remake is, without a doubt, better than Silent Hill 2.
Categorized:Editorials
