Welcome Back to Silent Hill - You'll Be Glad You Came

Silent Hill: Shattered Memories reimagines Silent Hill from a decade ago. This latest title by Konami is the seventh in the Silent Hill franchise , and is actually a revisit to the original game released in 1999 for the Playstation that started the series. Although there are elements that are somewhat similar to the original, the game is certainly not a remake. Graphics, story, and controls have all been reinvented and reworked for this well received game release.

The player enters the game in first person perspective as the character Harry Mason. Harry, who has been unconscious, has just awoken from an auto accident, discovering that his daughter Cheryl is missing. His search for her through the dark, creepy, and quiet town of Silent Hill during a snow storm begins. As Harry, the player will find themselves wandering through reality, and in a nightmare. Initially equipped with a hugely valuable cell phone that acts as a GPS, camera, and more; clues must be found, tasks performed, and puzzles solved. Interaction with non-player characters is of great importance, and there are also an array of monsters that will need to be avoided.

Game elements are based on character choices. Silent Hill is fun, engaging, and has some replay value. There are twists, game play variations, and alternate endings; all relying on the player character's interactions and choices during the course of the game. Depending how Harry handles a particular situation directly impacts how the elements of the events that follow are presented.

Game play is improved. Silent Hill takes advantage many technology advancements since the original game was released. This is evident in the use of the Nintendo Wii controllers throughout the game. Most first person games require some sort of physical combat such as punching or using an array of found weapons. In this game there is no real combat. As an ordinary man, Harry must fend for himself, and can do so by running, dodging and thrusting an enemy off himself. Wii controllers can uniquely be used in different motions to throw an enemy that has gotten to close for comfort.

"Therapy Sessions" support and propel the story forward. An intriguing thread in the game involves scenes dealing with visits with a therapist. These moments enforce the psychological aspects and backgrounds of both Harry and Cheryl's lives, their past, and the current events in the game. They also introduce a twist to the story as the perception and point of view of these sessions can vary at times and ultimately provide an alternate perception of the story.

Silent Hill: Shattered Memories is rated "M" for mature due to sexual themes, drug references, language, and violence. The title is available for the Nintendo Wii (requires the Nunchuk), Sony PS2, and the Sony PSP. Estimated retail price is $49.99 for Wii, and $29.99 for both Sony platforms. Silent Hill: Shattered Memories is a multi "Best of" award winner of E3 2009, and more than worthy to be a welcomed title in any game collection.