This is a strong entry in the Silent Hill series with a story that is so deep and layered that it is really fun to explore. After having completed the game for the first time, it motivated me a lot to immediately go into New Game+. No other Silent Hill game gave me this motivation before. The first run automatically gives you the worst end, so be prepared to do a few rounds. And New Game+ is not just the same repetition. It omits tedious stuff from the first run but instead adds more items and locations to explore. Now I'm in the third run and the game is still not getting boring, still offering new insights. The combat system can be seen as an enhancement of Silent Hill 4's combat system. Once you get used to it, it can be fun. But it will never become a walk in the park, no matter how strong you become. This is survival horror after all. You're supposed to have respect even of the weakest enemy. And don't be ashamed of running away from enemies where possible. Yes, weapons have limited durability and will break. In other games gun ammunition is limited, so it's essentially the same mechanics. Instead of ammo, here you'll find new weapons and repair kits along the way. All in all, difficulty and length are just right, in my opinion. And New Game+ keeps you motivated to continue playing. If you don't mind a mystic Japanese mountain village setting instead of an American small town, this game is a great experience. Even though it's damn expensive, it's worth every buck. For me, this is definitely the Game of the Year. Oh, and it runs perfect on Linux with Wine.
