Silent Hill 4: The Room

One of the most divisive entries in the series, often overshadowed by its predecessors due to its departure from the traditional structure of previous games and alienated most fans. However, it deserves recognition for its distinctive approach, haunting and claustrophobic atmosphere, narrative depth, and, notably, its closer adherence to the original vision of the first game. Some may take issue with that last assertion, but hear me out: while SH4 was originally conceived as a spin-off (contrary to the common misconception that it was shoehorned into the series), this does not diminish its legitimacy as a SH entry. As stated, I'd argue that it aligns more closely with the foundational framework of SH1. How so? In the first game, the narrative was not centered on the protagonist, Harry, but rather on Alessa. Harry functioned as an outsider caught within her nightmarish reality, with the plot deeply interwoven with the machinations of a cult. Similarly, SH4 revolves around its antagonist, Walter, while the player assumes the role of Henry, a character unwittingly entangled in Walter’s nightmarish psyche—one that was shaped and corrupted by the cult that raised him. Much like Alessa, Walter was also a victim here. The game is not without its flaws, and there are evident indications that it was rushed in development. However, some of the criticisms it receives are inconsistent. Complaints about 'janky' combat, for example, overlook the fact that the previous two entries utilized the same engine and exhibited similar mechanical quirks. Ultimately, SH was never intended to follow a rigid formula like SH2 or SH3. It was envisioned as an anthological horror series, and SH4 effectively embraces that concept. Go in blind, ignore everything you've heard. If nothing else, it delivers a genuinely unsettling experience, and at best, it may foster a newfound appreciation for SH as anthological horror series.

Great story and surprisingly scary for such an old title, but definitely suffering from aged mechanics. Many stun lock enemies and related early 2000's issues that can really take the fun out of the game.

soooo good, this game is a must play

Awesome game, it takes me back when I played it on the PS2. Great times.

and underrated. This game creates a lot of friction for players in terms of gameplay, it actively works against the player and throws a lot of unpleasant stuff to deal with, especially in the second half. And that's what so good about it, it's not afraid to make players uncomfortable like most new games, and it's difficulty doesn't rely on quick reflexes like in games considered to be for "hardcore" players like Souls games. This game's hard because it likes to mess with the player to create constant gameplay tension. You've got escort missions, unkillable ghosts, confusing level design, unkillable stalker, limited inventory, your safehouse becomes well not so safe throughout the game, the weapons break, your ammo is quite limited etc. Add to that great story, atmopshere, sound design and you've got one of the greats, truly remarkable piece of horror media.