Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Rumor: Silent Hill composer Akira Yamaoka leaves Konami]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/rumor-silent-hill-composer-akira-yamaoka-leaves-konami/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/rumor-silent-hill-composer-akira-yamaoka-leaves-konami/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/rumor-silent-hill-composer-akira-yamaoka-leaves-konami/#comments Aeropause claims that Akira Yamaoka, the man responsible for Silent Hill's evocative sound, has apparently left Konami after 16 years and is currently vacationing in Europe. Fans of the survival-horror series would rightfully claim that Yamaoka, whose work has been a constant in the entire series, is inextricably linked to Silent Hill.

Silent Hill: Shattered Memories producer Tomm Hulett told Joystiq in an interview back in June that Yamaoka's music "adds a special element, it's kind of the atmosphere of the town." He continued, "If Akira's music isn't there, it just doesn't sound quite right. And I'm sure that there are people out there who could emulate the sound and try to get it close, but there would be something missing." We've followed up with the publisher for confirmation and comment.

JoystiqRumor: Silent Hill composer Akira Yamaoka leaves Konami originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akira-yamaokakonamimusicrumorsilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingsilent-hill-originssilent-hill-shattered-memoriesTue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming not coming home to Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/silent-hill-homecoming-not-coming-home-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/silent-hill-homecoming-not-coming-home-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/silent-hill-homecoming-not-coming-home-to-japan/#comments Konami regrettably informs us that the latest installment in the Silent Hill series, the Western-developed Silent Hill: Homecoming, won't be making its way to Japan following its North American release last year and European release earlier this year. Konami blames "assorted issues" for the lack of a Japanese release, yet says Japanese gamers can "look forward to future releases in the series." Just not this one. Ever.

That doesn't mean Japanese gamers are without hope, however. If you've got a PS3, you can pick up the US version of the game and play it on your Japanese PS3, since there's no region protection. If you've got a Japanese Xbox 360 though, you're out of luck. Also, you're weird.

[Via Magweasel]

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming not coming home to Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixKonamiMicrosoftsilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Foundation 9 closes Fizz Factor studio, cuts back at Double Helix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/foundation-9-closes-fizz-factor-studio-cuts-back-at-double-heli/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/foundation-9-closes-fizz-factor-studio-cuts-back-at-double-heli/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/foundation-9-closes-fizz-factor-studio-cuts-back-at-double-heli/#comments
We had just grown accustomed to laying off gratuitous use of our dreadful "layoffs" tag, but alas, an unhappy economy continues to produce unhappy stories such as this one. In a move first reported by VentureBeat, Foundation 9 Entertainment has announced several cost-cutting measures to its employees. The company is currently working on various versions of G.I. Joe (pictured), Where the Wild Things Are and the PSP entry in the Assassin's Creed franchise.

The group's Austin, Texas-based Fizz Factor studio will be closed, while the Amaze and Griptonite teams (both based in Kirkland) will be merged under the leadership of the latter's studio head, J.C. Connors. According to a statement released by Foundation 9, "Having separate 'console' and 'handheld' studios under the same roof simply didn't make sense in light of the convergence in capabilities of modern game hardware!" Exclamation point.

Foundation 9 will also be implementing cutbacks at Double Helix, the Californian studio responsible for Konami's Xbox 360 and PS3 stab at survival-horror, Silent Hill Homecoming.

JoystiqFoundation 9 closes Fizz Factor studio, cuts back at Double Helix originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazedouble-helixfoundation-9gi-joegriptonitelayoffssilent-hill-homecomingwhere-the-wild-things-areWed, 29 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter IV, FEAR 2, MadWorld, more for $20 at GameStop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/street-fighter-iv-fear-2-madworld-more-for-20-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/street-fighter-iv-fear-2-madworld-more-for-20-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/street-fighter-iv-fear-2-madworld-more-for-20-at-gamestop/#comments

Sometimes it's better not to ask questions, which is the approach we're taking with GameStop's sale on several solid titles for $20 new -- and not GameStop's definition of "new," but actually new. The sale started today, for both online and stores, and goes until August 2. Highlights include:
  • Street Fighter IV (Xbox 360 and PS3)
  • FEAR 2: Project Origin (Xbox 360 and PS3)
  • Silent Hill Homecoming (Xbox 360)
  • MadWorld (Wii)
  • Donkey Kong Jungle Beat (Wii)
The full list and more nitpicking details about the sale can be found over at CAG. Although many of the titles make sense as part of the sale (Lair), the big question is: Why Street Fighter IV? Is Capcom planning to announce a Turbo Hyper Fighting Alpha Remix Championship Beefcake Easy-Bake Snuggie Edition?

Update: We were curious to know if Capcom was invoved with the price drop. A company rep informed us, "We don't have input into these sales, they're entirely generated by Gamestop."

JoystiqStreet Fighter IV, FEAR 2, MadWorld, more for $20 at GameStop originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>donkey-kong-jungle-beatfear-2gamestopmadworldMicrosoftNintendosilent-hill-homecomingstreet-fighter-ivWiiXbox-360Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Philosony: Will the real Alex Sheperd please stand up?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/24/philosony-will-the-real-alex-sheperd-please-stand-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/24/philosony-will-the-real-alex-sheperd-please-stand-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/24/philosony-will-the-real-alex-sheperd-please-stand-up/#commentsFiled under:


One thing that I think we all love about our chosen hobby is that the experience of a single game can be drastically different for each person. I don't mean this in the way we mean about other "static" media where we might each interpret what we read/see/hear in unique ways. I mean that though two people may play the exact same game, the cut scenes they view and the boss battles they fight may be completely different. This might be most evident in sandbox games or titles that have a prodigious amount of side quests, but sometimes even the main story can take wildly different paths depending on player input.

Heavy Rain director David Cage has expressed his desire to create a game that allows you to really suffer consequences that affect the story and continue playing, always conscious of your input in the overall plot. We may be entering an era in which we gamers may not only see different stories but have to actually reflect on what the path we choose says about us as well as the story. When my recent play through of Silent Hill: Homecoming was rewarded with a less than satisfying ending I immediately cursed the game's writers for their ineptitude. But looking back I've begun to wonder: am I partially to blame? Are bad endings increasingly becoming the consequence of bad or even inconsistent decisions by players?

Don't worry, the spoilers don't begin for another 300 words.

Continue reading Philosony: Will the real Alex Sheperd please stand up?

JoystiqPhilosony: Will the real Alex Sheperd please stand up? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallout-3gta-ivnarrativephilosonysilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingSat, 24 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming's Australian edits detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/silent-hill-homecomings-australian-edits-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/silent-hill-homecomings-australian-edits-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/silent-hill-homecomings-australian-edits-detailed/#commentsFiled under:


We reported last week that Silent Hill: Homecoming was finally classified by Australia's OFLC after having been refused classification when it was first submitted last year. It was reported that changes had to be made to the game in order to be classified MA15+, the highest classification offered to video games by the OFLC. Now, thanks to Edge, we know the nature of those changes. Atari, which will distribute the game Down Under, told Edge that the majority of the changes are being made to the game's cutscenes, in which "new camera angles and techniques will be used to reduce the impact of the unclassifiable material." At least some of the "unclassifiable" material, if you'd like to know, was related to the improper and grisly use of a power drill. Atari assures Edge that the changes only apply to "some scenes" and that "the original storyline remains unchanged."

Keep in mind that the wording of the article implies that some changes may have been made to actual gameplay, though the nature of any such changes is unclear. Meanwhile, Atari stated that the New Zealand version of the title has received an R rating and that it will not receive any edits.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming's Australian edits detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariaustraliakonaminew-zealandsilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingWed, 14 Jan 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Atari explains Silent Hill Homecoming's Aussie edits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/atari-explains-silent-hill-homecomings-aussie-edits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/atari-explains-silent-hill-homecomings-aussie-edits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/atari-explains-silent-hill-homecomings-aussie-edits/#commentsFiled under:


Atari, which is handling distribution for Silent Hill Homecoming in Australia, has explained what cuts were required for the title to receive an MA 15+ rating from the OFLC. Edge reports that edits were made to cutscenes, where "camera angles and techniques" will now "reduce the impact" of the offending material.

Atari emphasizes that changes were only made to some scenes and that the story remains unaffected. The OFLC originally didn't classify the game because of several gore-related issues -- particularly those involving drills. In good news for Kiwis, the game will remain unedited when it releases in New Zealand.

JoystiqAtari explains Silent Hill Homecoming's Aussie edits originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariaustraliakonamioflcsilent-hill-homecomingWed, 14 Jan 2009 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming classified by Australia's OFLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/silent-hill-homecoming-classified-by-australias-oflc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/silent-hill-homecoming-classified-by-australias-oflc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/silent-hill-homecoming-classified-by-australias-oflc/#commentsFiled under:


After being refused classification by the OFLC -- Australia's ratings board -- Silent Hill: Homecoming is finally coming home Down Under with an MA15+ rating. The game had earlier failed to net an MA15+ rating in September of 2008, effectively banning it from sale. It wasn't alone, as several other titles, including F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin and Fallout 3, ran into the same situation (both of which were later classified). According to Gamespot, Silent Hill: Homecoming was apparently resubmitted to the OFLC and has now been classified MA15+, though it's unclear what changes were made to the game, if any.

Hopefully, the pervading creepiness is still intact, because that's all that matters.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming classified by Australia's OFLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiadouble-helixkonamioflcsilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingthe-collectiveWed, 07 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming obtains classification in Australia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/silent-hill-homecoming-bestowed-classification-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/silent-hill-homecoming-bestowed-classification-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/silent-hill-homecoming-bestowed-classification-in-australia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Australia's OFLC has apparently seen fit to "unban" Silent Hill: Homecoming and grant it an MA15+ rating. The survival-horror game was previously refused classification by the organization for its violence. Gamespot reports there's no word on what edits -- if any -- were made to the Aussie version. F.E.A.R. 2 recently received a rating on appeal to the board without requiring any edits.

Despite there being no word on when the game will release in the region, distributor Atari had previously mentioned it would like to get the game onto Aussie retail shelves by Q1 2009.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming obtains classification in Australia originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarikonamiPCPS3silent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Wed, 07 Jan 2009 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Branching Dialogue: Survive All Horror (Part Two)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/branching-dialogue-survive-all-horror-part-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/branching-dialogue-survive-all-horror-part-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/branching-dialogue-survive-all-horror-part-two/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Presenting Branching Dialogue, a weekly, wordy and often worryingly pedantic discussion of video game genres, trends and err ... stuff I didn't think to put in this introductory line.

Though the latest survival-horror scare pair, Dead Space and Silent Hill: Homecoming, are unlikely to be praised for oozing INNOVATION! out of every pore, both games do a lot to improve and streamline the genre's traditional gameplay. So much so, in fact, that some of the contrivances I would have vigorously defended before, passed off as "misunderstood" by run 'n' gunners, no longer seem worthy of the effort.

But which genre staples can be safely torn out without leaving the design document in tatters? Well, there are two in particular which I'm glad to be rid of.

Continue reading Branching Dialogue: Survive All Horror (Part Two)

JoystiqBranching Dialogue: Survive All Horror (Part Two) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Branching-DialogueDead-SpaceJoystiqFeaturesJS-twitterPS3Silent-HillSilent-Hill-HomecomingSurvival-HorrorXbox-360Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Branching Dialogue: Survive all horror]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/branching-dialogue-survive-all-horror/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/branching-dialogue-survive-all-horror/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/branching-dialogue-survive-all-horror/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Presenting Branching Dialogue, a weekly, wordy and often worryingly pedantic discussion of video game genres, trends and err ... stuff I didn't think to put in this introductory line.
With the debut of a brand new IP and the return of an over-the-hill franchise taking place in the space of a few weeks, fans of survival-horror have undoubtedly felt relieved to find their genre considerably more alive than many of the frightful creatures that inhabit it. Counting myself among them -- the fans, not the creatures -- I've eagerly been spending my evenings roaming the sinister streets of Silent Hill: Homecoming, as well as the cramped corridors of Dead Space. While they shamble towards the subject of scariness in remarkably different ways, both highlight the same, inherent contradiction that lies at the still-beating heart of the genre: A good survival-horror is one you don't enjoy playing.

There's an element of self-deception at work here, one that willingly sets you up for the scare and the relief that comes when you realize that, oh, none of it's real. Of course it isn't, you're playing a game! But a good survival-horror will make you forget that critical fact, long enough for you to question what's around the corner and frequently enough to have you gasping at the sight of polygonal blobs leaping through the windows. It is -- and should be -- a stressful experience, a constant source of worry and unanswered what-ifs. Are you anxiously counting your spent bullets? Do you hesitate before ambling down a suspiciously long hallway? What a weird way to have fun.

Continue reading Branching Dialogue: Survive all horror

JoystiqBranching Dialogue: Survive all horror originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Branching-DialogueDead-SpaceEAElectronic-ArtsJoystiqFeaturesjs-twitterKonamiPCPS3Silent-HillSilent-Hill-HomecomingXbox-360Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming for Europe delayed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/silent-hill-homecoming-for-europe-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/silent-hill-homecoming-for-europe-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/silent-hill-homecoming-for-europe-delayed/#commentsFiled under:


Sorry Europe! Despite the fact that folks in the US have been playing Silent Hill: Homecoming since last month, you guys won't get your hands on the game until next year -- February 2009, to be exact. Konami did not issue a reason for the delay. CVG suspects it might be due to translation or certification issues, but that's as good as anyone's guess. Reviews for the title have been mixed, so maybe you Europeans aren't missing out on much.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming for Europe delayed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamisilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingTue, 14 Oct 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming Euro release now in '09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/silent-hill-homecoming-euro-release-now-in-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/silent-hill-homecoming-euro-release-now-in-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/silent-hill-homecoming-euro-release-now-in-09/#commentsFiled under: ,

Even though the latest Silent Hill installment has already released to North American retailers, Europeans will have to wait until February 2009 to get their hands on Konami's Silent Hill: Homecoming.

For reasons unknown (though localization seems to be the culprit), Homecoming has been delayed for release in Europe, pushed back from late October to sometime in February of next year. But don't be too sad Silent Hill'ers, because there's a certain game releasing this week and it should satisfy your horror needs until next year. Promise.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming Euro release now in '09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamisilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingTue, 14 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Three tracks (for free!) from the Silent Hill: Homecoming soundtrack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/three-tracks-for-free-from-the-silent-hill-homecoming-soundt/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/three-tracks-for-free-from-the-silent-hill-homecoming-soundt/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/three-tracks-for-free-from-the-silent-hill-homecoming-soundt/#commentsFiled under:


Whatever qualms you may have with Silent Hill: Homecoming, which probably ranges from the awkward combat system to the absence of Team Silent, one thing that's undeniable is the quality of the soundtrack. Akira Yamaoka delivers yet another broodingly morose soundtrack that critics and fans alike have applauded since the first game. Those of you who ordered the game with Amazon were treated to 3 bonus tracks -- but now you can download them for free, even if you've never touched a Silent Hill game -- right here.

The three tracks included are The Sacred Line, Witchcraft and Cold Blood. We are pretty sure that's frequent collaborator Mary Elizabeth McGlynn's vocals on The Sacred Line, but you can be the judge for yourself after you listen to the track.

[Thanks, anonymous!]

JoystiqThree tracks (for free!) from the Silent Hill: Homecoming soundtrack originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homecomingkonamioriginal-soundtrackostsilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingsoundtrackWed, 08 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Silent Hill Homecoming (PC, PS3, 360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/metareview-silent-hill-homecoming-pc-ps3-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/metareview-silent-hill-homecoming-pc-ps3-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/metareview-silent-hill-homecoming-pc-ps3-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Within the circle of paranoid and traumatized Silent Hill fans, there are two fundamental truths that must be embraced upon the release of each new entry in Konami's survival-horror franchise. The first, and more difficult to accept, is that the core gameplay in Silent Hill is sort of awful. Oh, but that gripping atmosphere! That inescapable miasma of melancholy! That's where the second truth comes in: if series sound maestro, Akira Yamaoka, composed the soundtrack (and he did for Homecoming), then it's probably an experience worth having. What say you, early reviews?
  • 1UP (B): "Homecoming stays true to the macabre Silent Hill atmosphere without feeling stagnant. Exploration's perfectly in line with previous games, complete with tons of locked doors, decaying structures, and doubling back between the real world and its hellish counterpart -- but some little nuances intrigue."
  • Cheat Code Central (84/100): "This game delivers on the experience you have come to expect from the franchise. It will also give you reason to begin clamoring for the next installment. The folks at Double Helix gave me the Silent Hill I wanted: a nerve-racking, scary as hell experience to hold me over this Halloween season."
  • IGN (67/100): "Unfortunately, I admit that the game feels like a bit of a letdown. The gameplay has been reduced from a tense psychological experience fraught with spine tingling jumps and scares to a generic, predictable action title set in the location with good graphics and a great soundtrack."

JoystiqMetareview - Silent Hill Homecoming (PC, PS3, 360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Double-HelixKonamiPCPS3Silent-HillSilent-Hill-HomecomingSurvival-HorrorXbox-360Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming's Aussie exile detailed; hopeful release in Q1 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/silent-hill-homecomings-aussie-exile-detailed-hopeful-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/silent-hill-homecomings-aussie-exile-detailed-hopeful-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/silent-hill-homecomings-aussie-exile-detailed-hopeful-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Late last week we learned that Silent Hill: Homecoming was essentially banned in Australia after being refused classification by the OFLC. IGN has some more details on the OFLC's issues with the title and has spoken with regional distributor Atari, which hopes (following some edits by Konami) to have the game out by Q1 2009.

The OFLC apparently found several instances of gore in the game to be problematic. One scene involved the protagonist having a drill forced into his eye, while another had him drilling an enemy's skull. There were a few other issues, but nothing we haven't seen in horror films for the last few decades. It's really about time Australia got that "R18+" rating for games.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming's Aussie exile detailed; hopeful release in Q1 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariaustraliakonamioflcPCPS3silent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming refused classification in Australia ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/silent-hill-homecoming-refused-classification-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/silent-hill-homecoming-refused-classification-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/silent-hill-homecoming-refused-classification-in-australia/#commentsFiled under: ,


Looks like the Homecoming won't be hitting the land down under after all. Screen Play is reporting that the sixth title in Konami's Silent Hill series won't be able to release in Australia in its current form.

Silent Hill: Homecoming focuses on violence to rid the world of evil horrors by way of "ramming pipes through enemies' heads and stomping on their faces to pull them out [and] tearing their entrails loose with an axe," as described by Edge Online.

The crux of the issue stems from the OFLC rating standards which currently has a peak rating of 15+ for games, despite the fact that movies and magazines can be given an adult rating (R18+). The Australian government, which maintains the rating system in the country, has said they are looking into adding an adult rating to games but have yet to implement any changes.

Silent Hill: Homecoming will join System Shock 2: Blood Trails, Dark Sector and Fallout 3 as the only four titles to be refused classification in 2008, although the latter two titles were eventually released in a modified form to meet the rating standards. Silient Hill: Homecoming hits the Xbox 360 next week in North America followed by a November release in Europe.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming refused classification in Australia originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austrailiakonamioflcratingsilent-hill-homecomingMon, 29 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New games this week: Silent Hill Homecoming edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/new-games-this-week-silent-hill-homecoming-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/new-games-this-week-silent-hill-homecoming-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/new-games-this-week-silent-hill-homecoming-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


So maybe this week doesn't quite provide the Horn of Plenty of Sept. 22. But it's a charming little week all the same, with a new Silent Hill game (made by dirty, clumsy gaijin hands) and the return of the Harvest Moon series with Tree of Tranquility.

If you're looking for something a bit more visceral you can get totally pumped for MK vs. DC with Mortal Kombat Kollection on the PS2. Check out the full list after the break.

Gallery: Silent Hill: Homecoming (Xbox 360)


Gallery: Silent Hill: Homecoming (PS3)

Continue reading New games this week: Silent Hill Homecoming edition

JoystiqNew games this week: Silent Hill Homecoming edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>newgamesPCPS2PS3PSPsilent-hill-homecomingWiiXbox-360Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sun. deals: Gift cards with Pure, Silent Hill and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/sun-deals-gift-cards-with-pure-silent-hill-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/sun-deals-gift-cards-with-pure-silent-hill-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/sun-deals-gift-cards-with-pure-silent-hill-and-more/#commentsFiled under:


Here we go again, a weekly gaming deals roundup thanks to X3F. We search for 360 deals, because we like saving money and because we care about your bank account. So, let's do this.

This week at Best Buy, you can grab a free $10 gift card with the purchase of Pure and a free Silent Hill DVD with purchase of Silent Hill: Homecoming. Target has CoD4, Battlefield: Bad Company, and LEGO Indiana Jones for $39. Our retailer friends over at Circuit City are giving out free Pyramid keychains with Silent Hill: Homecoming, free $10 gift cards with both Pure and Baja: Edge of Control, Rock Band bundles for $139, and they have wireless controllers for $5 off. And the bonus deal this week is over at Circuit City where, with the purchase of either Rock Band, Ninja Gaiden II, Tiger Woods 09 or Madden 09, you can score a free $20 gift card. W00t to that.

JoystiqSun. deals: Gift cards with Pure, Silent Hill and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baja-edge-of-controldealsmadden-09ninja-gaiden-2purerock-bandsilent-hill-homecomingSun, 28 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Worldwide PS3 releases for the week of September 28th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-september-28th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-september-28th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-september-28th/#commentsFiled under:


Silent Hill is coming home this week. For America and Asia, that is. Europe has about another month to wait, but instead get the latest iteration in the never ending FIFA franchise. That's it for this week, but here's the info in a handy bullet-point list:

US Games EU Games
 Asian Games
 Release dates are constantly subject to change. If you're worried, then check with your local retailer. Europeans, feel free to import Silent Hill: Homecoming, if you're desperate. Just be aware that imported games must have downloadable content from their respective regions. Not that we suspect Silent Hill: Homecoming will be getting any DLC.

JoystiqWorldwide PS3 releases for the week of September 28th originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>euroreleasesFIFA-09releasessilent-hill-homecomingSun, 28 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill not coming home in Australia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/silent-hill-not-coming-home-in-australia-due-to-oflc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/silent-hill-not-coming-home-in-australia-due-to-oflc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/silent-hill-not-coming-home-in-australia-due-to-oflc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Atari, the distributor for Konami games in Australia, has stated (via GameSpot) that Silent Hill: Homecoming won't be coming to the land down under. The game has been refused classification by the OFLC, making it illegal to sell the game in stores. At earliest, the title is expected to arrive "next year" while Konami decides whether to edit the game for the region.

Fallout 3, which was also refused classification in Aussieland, endured minor edits so it could be sold in the country -- and those edits poured over to other regions. That will apparently not be the case for Silent Hill: Homecoming, which is still due to arrive everywhere else this year.

[Via Game Politics]

JoystiqSilent Hill not coming home in Australia originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaoflcPCPS3silent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming still set for Sept., PC version Steam-only]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/konami-clarifies-silent-hill-homecoming-release-date-pc-versio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/konami-clarifies-silent-hill-homecoming-release-date-pc-versio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/konami-clarifies-silent-hill-homecoming-release-date-pc-versio/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Konami has clarified a couple details about Silent Hill: Homecoming's release date and its distribution on PC. Following up on some reports coming out of Leipzig, the company informs us that the time frame for the North American release is still September, and Europe will apparently need to wait until later in '08.

We have also been informed that Valve's Steam digital distribution service is "the only method of distribution" for Silent Hill: Homecoming on the PC. Konami currently has no plans for a retail box version, which certainly is an interesting strategy.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming still set for Sept., PC version Steam-only originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaykonamiPCPS3silent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GC 2008: Silent Hill coming home to PC, possibly delayed until November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/silent-hill-coming-home-to-pc-possibly-delayed-until-nov/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/silent-hill-coming-home-to-pc-possibly-delayed-until-nov/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/silent-hill-coming-home-to-pc-possibly-delayed-until-nov/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Konami announced today that Silent Hill: Homecoming will release on PC, in addition to PS3 and Xbox 360. The press release states the game "will be available as a digital download" through Steam and doesn't mention anything about retail.

Meanwhile, there's a report by Darkzero out of Leipzig that the game's release has been delayed from September to November. The press release for the PC announcement, however, still states Homecoming is "expected to launch" in September. We've reached out to Konami to clarify the release date and PC details and will update as soon as we hear something.

Gallery: Silent Hill: Homecoming (Xbox 360)

JoystiqGC 2008: Silent Hill coming home to PC, possibly delayed until November originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaykonamileipzig-08PCPS3silent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming delayed till November [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/silent-hill-homecoming-delayed-till-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/silent-hill-homecoming-delayed-till-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/silent-hill-homecoming-delayed-till-november/#commentsFiled under:


Update: Apparently, this information only applies to Europe. The US release date is still September.

At LCG today, Konami informed us that the upcoming Silent Hill: Homecoming has been delayed till November. The sixth game in the survival horror series was originally slated for a September release, but apparently the newly announced PC version will debut simultaneously with the console versions. From the looks of our hands-on impressions at E3, perhaps Konami could use the extra time to polish things up a bit.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming delayed till November [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homecomingkonamilgc08silent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingWed, 20 Aug 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Silent Hill Homecoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/hands-on-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/hands-on-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/hands-on-silent-hill-homecoming/#commentsFiled under:


Usually, a venue like E3 proves to be a bad venue for a game like Silent Hill Homecoming. The usual hustle and bustle of the E3 show floor makes for a game focused squarely on atmosphere to suffer. So, why was our playtest of Silent Hill Homecoming in a closed room with headphones so uninspiring? There are a number of issues that come to the top of our minds: the lackluster graphics stand out, for once. However, the most frustrating aspect of Homecoming is how familiar it all felt. Returning to Silent Hill on consoles after an adventure like Silent Hill IV: The Room is strange. Regardless of the execution found in that last Silent Hill title, one couldn't deny the interesting premise which took the series in a slightly different direction. Homecoming, on the other hand, plays it safe and feels like an HD remake of Silent Hill Origins (PSP).

For those that are hankering for a new Silent Hill game, perhaps this by-the-numbers offering will satiate that itch. However, the setting is much too familiar, and the setup is just not that compelling. Waking up strapped down in a hospital bed, our protagonist Alex Shephard must break free and find clues on his missing brother. Combat works just as it has before: lock on and swing various melee weapons found in the environment.

Continue reading Hands-on: Silent Hill Homecoming

JoystiqHands-on: Silent Hill Homecoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e308joystiqfeaturessilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingThu, 17 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pyramid Head and Robbie the Rabbit in Silent Hill: Homecoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/pyramid-head-and-robbie-the-rabbit-in-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/pyramid-head-and-robbie-the-rabbit-in-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/pyramid-head-and-robbie-the-rabbit-in-silent-hill-homecoming/#commentsFiled under:


Fan favorites Pyramid Head and Robbie the Rabbit will apparently be making appearances in the upcoming sequel Silent Hill: Homecoming. Joystiq spotted Pyramid Head at E3 and even has photographic prove, as seen above. The character is meant to be a manifestation of guilt (though one could say all the enemies in Silent Hill fall in that category, but that's a story for a fansite ... ) and has only appeared so far in Silent Hill 2 and the theatrical movie, but his role here is unknown. Robbie the Rabbit first appeared in Silent Hill 3 as the creepy mascot of the amusement park the player is trapped in, as well as Silent Hill: The Room as a doll in Eileen's room. We also have six new screenshots, with all the screwed-up goodness you expect from the franchise.


JoystiqPyramid Head and Robbie the Rabbit in Silent Hill: Homecoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamipyramid-headsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingThu, 17 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spotted in Silent Hill Homecoming: Pyramid Head]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/spotted-in-silent-hill-homecoming-pyramid-head/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/spotted-in-silent-hill-homecoming-pyramid-head/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/spotted-in-silent-hill-homecoming-pyramid-head/#commentsFiled under: , ,


There are two things we know about Pyramid Head. One, he is a physical manifestation of guilt. Two, he generally causes the physical manifestation of crap in your pants. Oh, actually, there is a third thing we know about Pyramid Head: he makes an appearance in Silent Hill Homecoming. This raises the question: what is protagonist Alex Shepherd guilty of? Our guess is that he feels guilty about the desperate fan service required to keep gamers interested in this series.

Stay tuned for hands on impressions.

JoystiqSpotted in Silent Hill Homecoming: Pyramid Head originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectivedouble-helixe3e308foundation-9konamiPS3silent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gameplay video shows first part of Silent Hill: Homecoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/gameplay-video-shows-first-part-of-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/gameplay-video-shows-first-part-of-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/gameplay-video-shows-first-part-of-silent-hill-homecoming/#commentsFiled under:


Supposedly from an early beta version of Silent Hill: Homecoming on the PS3, this Russian gameplay video shows a playthrough of what appears to be the first chapter of the game. Gameplay-wise everything looks similar to what we have seen before, and the provider of the video assures us the narrator isn't saying anything we didn't know already. In terms of story, we'll refrain from saying much as small story elements are disclosed in the 13+ minute video, but it involves the protagonist Alex returning home and running into some old family and friends. Look for Silent Hill: Homecoming when it arrives September of this year.

[Thanks, Leigh B.!]

JoystiqGameplay video shows first part of Silent Hill: Homecoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamisilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingSat, 05 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Qore Issue 2 out today, features Resistance 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/qore-issue-2-out-today-features-resistance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/qore-issue-2-out-today-features-resistance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/qore-issue-2-out-today-features-resistance-2/#commentsFiled under:


Love it or hate it, the second issue of Qore hits the PLAYSTATION Network today. Here's what you can expect:
Qore is available for $2.99 each episode, $24.99 for a 13-episode subscription. (Also, for those waiting for the SOCOM Confrontation beta, you'll need to keep Issue 1. We'll tell all of you when the beta will be available.) Do you think this second issue is worth it?

JoystiqQore Issue 2 out today, features Resistance 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maddennarutonaruto-ultimate-ninja-stormqoreresistanceresistance-2silent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingThu, 03 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming video showcases new mechanics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/silent-hill-homecoming-video-showcases-new-mechanics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/silent-hill-homecoming-video-showcases-new-mechanics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/silent-hill-homecoming-video-showcases-new-mechanics/#commentsFiled under:


A French gameplay video of Silent Hill: Homecoming has been spotted at website Gamersyde. It's a bit long, clocking at over 10 minutes, and it is an extended version of a video from Konami Gamers' Day 08 last month. This one features some of the elements reported earlier, such as new combat mechanics and branching conversations. The combat, though supposedly more difficult than previous games, looks more fluid and less jerky. Another interesting note is that unlike his predecessors, it appears the player can actually hear this protagonist speak when he remarks on the environment around himself.

The game stars Alex Shepherd, solider who just returned from war, searching for this brother Josh in Silent Hill. In the video, Alex is dragged through a hospital strapped to a bed where he witnesses some rather horrific things -- he eventually is able to escape his bondage (by pressing X apparently) and though the ex-soldier finds his brother, his sibling appears unfazed by the grotesqueness around him. Scary indeed. The branching conversations featured at the end of the video and the buttons pressed in order to free yourself remind us of an earlier game on PS2, Indigo Prophecy. Take a look at all the killer nurses you can handle here.

[Via Maxconsole]

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming video showcases new mechanics originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamisilent-hillsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingFri, 27 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scared stiff: Why should we care about Silent Hill: Homecoming?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/scared-stiff-why-should-we-care-about-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/scared-stiff-why-should-we-care-about-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/scared-stiff-why-should-we-care-about-silent-hill-homecoming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Konami's Silent Hill franchise has forgotten more about keeping us hiding beneath our covers than most games will ever know. Even EA's own Glen Schofield tips his hat to the series, telling us earlier this week that he considers the 1999 PlayStation original to be among his favorite survival horror games ever. But after nearly a decade of stumbling through the fog, it's easy to feel that the dilapidated burg of Silent Hill has gotten a bit too long in the tooth.

For the series' sixth installment, Konami has handed the blood-soaked baton over to external developer Double Helix Games, a recent mash-up of The Collective and Shiny Entertainment. The result is this fall's upcoming release, Silent Hill: Homecoming, and we recently puzzled our way out of mist long enough to ask the game's lead designer, Jason Allen, just why we should care about this latest return trip to Silent Hill.

Gallery: Silent Hill: Homecoming

Continue reading Scared stiff: Why should we care about Silent Hill: Homecoming?

JoystiqScared stiff: Why should we care about Silent Hill: Homecoming? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixdoublehelixjoystiqfeatureskonamiPS3scared-stiffsilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingsilenthillsilenthillhomecomingXbox-360Wed, 25 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB Watch: Swan Song Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/esrb-watch-swan-song-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/esrb-watch-swan-song-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/esrb-watch-swan-song-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Yeah we know the post title is a bit needlesssly grim. Let's face it, we're going to still be getting some information about releases from the ESRB. And hopefully some publishers simply won't much care about putting their games up there early. Others like Playful Entertainment, publishers of Ticket to Ride, seem to still want their ratings to go up at the last minute (TtR releases this week).

However, if we're to believe that the publishers of the other two XBLA games on the list (Rocket Riot and Cribbage) also want their games to pop up at the last minute, we could be looking at the first hint of next week's releases. Or we could just be paranoid about this whole ESRB thing.

JoystiqESRB Watch: Swan Song Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cribbagemadden-09rocket-riotsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingsoulcaliburivticket-to-ridexblaTue, 24 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming preview discusses combat, branching conversations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/silent-hill-homecoming-preview-discusses-combat-branching-conv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/silent-hill-homecoming-preview-discusses-combat-branching-conv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/silent-hill-homecoming-preview-discusses-combat-branching-conv/#commentsFiled under:

Are you still worried about Silent Hill: Homecoming being in the hands of a Western developer instead of Team Silent? Konami producer William Oertel put it pretty well: "Much of it is very deliberate. You don't have to go into every single detail. You leave it to the fans to decipher...In a sense, the whole game is like a puzzle." This is part of the ideology of the development staff -- to keep the game more on the psychological level like the legendary Silent Hill 2 and less on the literal side, like the first and third installments. We support this move.

A preview of the game doesn't go into the storyline very much, since they claim it is quite on-track with previous titles and wish to refrain from spoiling anything. However, they do comment on the new battle system and how it, actually, works in favor of the Silent Hill style of play. Every weapon as a finishing move, dodging is challenging ... combat is, essentially, more difficult. Enemies detect sound and light pretty viciously now -- they reacted before, but now it's clear when you knock over any of the surrounding stuff, the enemy comes running.

Conversations branch, too. During some of the games discussions between characters, you can choose from a couple of different answers that will yield different reactions or get you a little more background information. It doesn't sound overly complex, but it'll be interesting to see if these branches actually influence the type of ending you get. All in all, it's sounding pretty well done.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming preview discusses combat, branching conversations originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkonamisilent-hillsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingThu, 19 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Akira Yamaoka admits David Lynch as Silent Hill influence]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/akira-yamaoka-admits-david-lynch-as-silent-hill-influence/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/akira-yamaoka-admits-david-lynch-as-silent-hill-influence/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/akira-yamaoka-admits-david-lynch-as-silent-hill-influence/#commentsFiled under:

The new Silent Hill game isn't completely abandoned by the original Japanese devs: long-time composer for the series, Akira Yamaoka, is still on board and singing praises to the new staff and the new game. Yamaoka sat down with Gamasutra at a recent Konami event and spoke a bit about the game. Let's listen in.

Yamaoka thinks it's a natural step for the game to move on to Western developers -- it had originally been a game whose horror is derived from American cinema. Plus the franchise is more popular in the US, he says. Yamaoka is also trying to move away from the horror genre, saying he "worked on some other titles that are not horror titles. But also I have something, another project in mind, that I'm trying to develop." If you're looking for what influences the Silent Hill team, he says it's probably David Lynch (The Elephant Man, specifically). So there you go. At least we can expect his white-noise style of music to scare us silly in Silent Hill: Homecoming, right?

JoystiqAkira Yamaoka admits David Lynch as Silent Hill influence originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akira-yamaokakonamisilent-hillsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingsilent-hill-vWed, 11 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some worries put to eternal rest in Silent Hill Homecoming interview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/some-worries-put-to-eternal-rest-in-silent-hill-homecoming-inter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/some-worries-put-to-eternal-rest-in-silent-hill-homecoming-inter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/some-worries-put-to-eternal-rest-in-silent-hill-homecoming-inter/#commentsFiled under:

An exclusive interview was snagged by SilentHill5.net with the game's lead designer over at Double Helix, Jason Allen. Since this is more of a fansite than anything else, the questions are actually geared toward easing the thoughts of longtime Silent Hill fans -- which means the questions are probably what you want to hear answers to. Our summary, naturally, will cover the answers as well.

While the game appears action-oriented, the developers have focused primarily on the signature atmosphere of the series. However, Double Helix was asked to create the game to appeal to a larger audience and they felt a revamped fighting system would assist in that regard. This change may also be felt with the puzzles -- they're a more seamless experience now, instead of moving to a static screen with a puzzle, they will be viewed in a more seamless manner (that's probably easier to see than explain).

The game is trying to remain true to its roots. The developers understand people's hesitations and have done several things to keep the game in-line with its roots: the text, map system, sounds, picking up notes and other items has remained the same as ever. Difficulty settings will exist for the game, but they will not have an option for puzzle difficulty. They hope people realize they've kept the heart of the game alive and the magic is still there. There are more questions to go over, like boss battles, objectives, and item management. However, they didn't really give any valuable answers to them, so we'll leave checking those out to you. We'll remain cautiously optimistic about this game, but our anticipation is growing.

JoystiqSome worries put to eternal rest in Silent Hill Homecoming interview originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkonamisilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingsilent-hill-vMon, 02 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Silent Hill: Homecoming screens damage psyche]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/new-silent-hill-homecoming-screens-damage-psyche/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/new-silent-hill-homecoming-screens-damage-psyche/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/new-silent-hill-homecoming-screens-damage-psyche/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's a strange kind of excitement when a new batch of Silent Hill: Homecoming screenshots is released. There is happiness at the prospect of any news regarding Silent Hill and there is also the lurking fear that accompanies it. The latest screens keep most of the fear in check, thankfully, as creepiness is kept to a minimum. Sure, we do get some new shots of the nurses (as well as a new monster apparently obsessed with yoga), but we've learned to deal with them. Psychologically, at least, we can (mostly) handle the nurses. Check out the new screens and hope that Homecoming lives up to its predecessors.


JoystiqNew Silent Hill: Homecoming screens damage psyche originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectivedouble-helixkonamisilent-hillsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingsilent-hill-vthe-collectiveThu, 22 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Go to sleep with these Silent Hill screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/go-to-sleep-with-these-silent-hill-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/go-to-sleep-with-these-silent-hill-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/go-to-sleep-with-these-silent-hill-screenshots/#commentsFiled under:


Click for high-resolution image.

It's 2AM on the east coast. As we go to sleep, we thought we'd curl up and sit down with new images from Silent Hill Homecoming. The upcoming survival horror game for PS3 comes from new developer Double Helix, and will be available this September.

The franchise has always been known for mood and atmosphere, and that's exactly what we see in these new shots. But, will this feel like more than just the same ol' Silent Hill, with a fresh new coat of paint?

JoystiqGo to sleep with these Silent Hill screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2008 02:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>silent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingThu, 22 May 2008 02:10:00 EST<![CDATA[New 'scream' shots of Silent Hill: Homecoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/new-scream-shots-of-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/new-scream-shots-of-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/new-scream-shots-of-silent-hill-homecoming/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click to make with the zooming
Did we mention just how creepy the latest Silent Hill installment is in our most recent update on the game? Let's see ... yes, we did. Still, for those who either refuse to believe us - in which case you're meanies - or aren't yet convinced of its (dare we say?) fear factor, we offer you a ghastly gaggle of new shots from the game, by way of Konami. Just don't blame us if you have trouble breathing eating seeing walking talking sleeping after viewing them.

Gallery: Silent Hill: Homecoming (5-21-08)

JoystiqNew 'scream' shots of Silent Hill: Homecoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 May 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkonamiPS3screenshotssilent-hillsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingXbox-360Wed, 21 May 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funny endings return for Silent Hill: Homecoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/funny-endings-return-for-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/funny-endings-return-for-silent-hill-homecoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/funny-endings-return-for-silent-hill-homecoming/#commentsFiled under: ,


Speaking to GameTrailers, Silent Hill: Homecoming producer and composer Akira Yamaoka has revealed that funny endings will be returning in upcoming Double Helix (formerly The Collective) take on the series. When asked about what elements from previous games would be returning in Homecoming, Yamaoka said (through a translator), "I think humor is important. A lot of Silent Hill fans enjoy different endings, like the UFO ending, the dog ending, right? Those funny endings are an important part of Silent Hill."

We'd be hard-pressed to disagree, as the humorous endings (spoilers ... sort of) serve as a much needed counterbalance to the disturbing, soul-shattering imagery that the series is known for. Oh, and Yamaoka's favorite entry in the series? Silent Hill 2 (ahem ... duh). Check out the full interview after the break.

Continue reading Funny endings return for Silent Hill: Homecoming

JoystiqFunny endings return for Silent Hill: Homecoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkonamisilent-hillsilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingthe-collectiveMon, 19 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming brings home several videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/silent-hill-homecoming-brings-home-several-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/silent-hill-homecoming-brings-home-several-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/silent-hill-homecoming-brings-home-several-videos/#commentsFiled under:

We've got one video above and several more videos after the cut detailing different areas of Silent Hill: Homecoming. While some may decry the game as an abandoned franchise by Team Silent, or a Me-Too title done by outsourced developers, you have to admit they've nailed the atmosphere pretty well. This is a Silent Hill game, but we can't really judge this type of game until it's been played through from beginning to bloody end. Then thought about on a deep psychological level for several hours. Anyway, enjoy these videos, featuring lots of nurses and lots of dogs, then let us know what you think.

Continue reading Silent Hill: Homecoming brings home several videos

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming brings home several videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamisilent-hill-5silent-hill-homecomingthe-collectiveSat, 17 May 2008 09:00:00 EST