Silent Hill 4 shows that the series has still a lot to offer to survival horror genre and still proves itself king.
The protagonist, Henry Townshend, is drawn into Sullivan’s nightmare world and must slowly piece together his history through the creatures and settings encountered there. This game provides metaphors for birth, mothers, and references to the other Silent Hill games; Such as the Wish House or Henry Townshend being framed for murder.
Not only has the game made a vast change in storyline, which sequels should do, but also in game play. No longer is it required to go into a menu to see one's physical health, albeit the standard "health meter" is now in constant display when in play. To gamers, this might not seem so surprising, since the concept of it has been a traditional staple of games, but Silent Hill series has now made that upgrade. In my opinion, I think the reasoning for it before, was to give the player a immersive and cinematic experience. Which would be some what deluded with on-screen clutter, not to say that Silent Hill 4 has that issue, but should be more accessible to the average gamer. On top of that, the player can switch weapons on the fly with the press of the directional pad, which is handy when facing the enemies of the game.
The monster and creature designs never seem to get old, actually, seem to become better with age throughout the series. In this iteration, they partake in the form of ghost, most of them do, and have this life-less like quality; hence "ghost". If anything, their reactions are quite frightening and bizarre. The victims float around, much like a marionette does. When they get close to ground level, their limbs bend against and drag on the floor...it is hard to express for words the odd movements.
Speaking of the ghosts, they are the first monsters that can not be killed...which forces you, as the player, to run like hell. In previous Silent Hill's, it is much easier and recommended to avoid confrontation, but if you did by chance, it was not that hard to finish it. Which makes Silent Hill 4 truly evolve the series. The moments when you do, are nerve racking, and when you think you are safe, the ghosts can manipulate themselves through walls in a pursuit to your death. Very similar to Nemesis from Resident Evil 3, chasing Jill Valentine through a S.T.A.R.S. building, by busting down walls or the Dahaka scenes in Prince of Persia: Warrior Within.
Silent Hill 4 feels more like a entertaining action/ adventure game, with out loosing the compensation for the psychological horror aspect. It seems more detached to it's roots then other Silent Hill's, but keeps the plot, characters, and events fresh and original then ever.
Another easy recommendation once more for any fan or especially newcomers, no pre-requisite knowledge of the series is needed! :)
-Mj