Silent Hill f is receiving very positive early reviews, with praise for its atmospheric horror, beautiful yet grotesque visuals, and deep psychological storytelling. Critics highlight the game's unique setting in 1960s Japan, a haunting fog-filled town, and a narrative focused on a teenage girl's turbulent coming of age. The combat system is noted to be engaging but challenging, with some comparisons to soulslike mechanics, emphasizing resource management and evasion over brute force. Key points from early reviews include:

• Famitsu awarded it a high score of 36/40, the best ever for a Silent Hill title from the magazine, praising visual beauty and exhilarating combat but noting some control issues.

• Detailed impressions describe the game's atmosphere as a mix of beauty and decay, with a soundtrack that enhances the haunting experience, capturing the transience of life and mental deterioration.

• Exploration and puzzle-solving remain strong aspects, with a less linear and richly detailed world inspired by Japanese townscapes.

• An alleged review leak rated it 9.5/10, calling the game "genuinely spectacular" and noting that New Game+ continues the story with multiple endings, supporting replayability.

• The game balances psychological horror with challenging combat that rewards strategic battles, making it different but true to the Silent Hill spirit.

Overall, Silent Hill f is shaping up as a powerful, artistically rich psychological horror game that honors the classic series while introducing fresh elements and a distinctive cultural setting. It comes out on September 25, 2025, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with Deluxe Edition early access available