The Silent Hill franchise, a cornerstone of psychological horror, has haunted players for nearly three decades. While each game often presents a self-contained narrative focused on a new protagonist confronting the unsettling Otherworld, a deeper lore connects them through recurring characters and subtle environmental storytelling. For those looking to piece together the overarching narrative, especially in light of recent releases like Silent Hill: Townfall, understanding the chronological order of the games is key.
Approximately 18 Silent Hill games have been released since the franchise's debut in 1999. The original four titles, developed by Team Silent, are considered the core canon. Subsequent entries, including numerous spin-offs, have been created by various international studios. While mobile titles like The Orphan trilogy and Silent Hill: The Escape exist, their connections to the main narrative are considered tangential. Similarly, the Play Novel and the interactive series Silent Hill: Ascension are excluded from this timeline for clarity.
Which Silent Hill Game Should You Start With?
The ideal starting point depends on player preference. For those seeking a modernized Silent Hill experience, the remake of Silent Hill 2 by Bloober Team offers a faithful rendition with updated quality-of-life features. Alternatively, for a deeper dive into the series' lore, beginning with the original Silent Hill or Silent Hill 2 is recommended. Accessing these earlier titles on modern platforms may require emulation.
Every Silent Hill Game in Timeline Order
The first four Silent Hill games form the bedrock of the series' canon, with later titles occasionally introducing contradictions while referencing the original story. While the exact placement of some games can be debated, a general chronological understanding can be established.
1. Silent Hill ƒ
This upcoming installment, set in 1960s Japan, marks the first time the series ventures outside the American town. While Silent Hill ƒ features distinct characters, locations, and its own version of the Otherworld, it is expected to offer subtle connections to the broader Silent Hill lore through in-game documents. The narrative follows Hinako, a teenager grappling with fear, and is enhanced by the writing of Ryukishi07.
2. Silent Hill: Origins
Developed as a prequel, Silent Hill: Origins directly links to the original Silent Hill and Silent Hill 3 through the Alessa Gillespie storyline. Set in the late 1970s, it follows Travis Grady, a truck driver who becomes entangled in the town's cult-driven secrets after a mysterious crash. The game's