(Image credit: Konami)
We’ve only caught glimpses of Silent Hill f so far, yet it already promises to be amongst the most terrifying entries in its series. Notably, it has become the first in the franchise to receive an 18+ rating in Japan, with the ESRB warning of “faces ripped apart,” “a character burned alive inside a cage,” and “entrails and sinew displayed on serving platters.” The game appears so intense that Konami had to include a message on its store page advising, “If you feel uncomfortable at any point while playing, please take a break from playing or speak to someone you trust.”
The latest development supporting the idea that Silent Hill f is incredibly scary has just emerged. The Australian government has issued its rating for this spine-chilling game, deeming it ‘RC’ or ‘Refused Classification’. This indicates that unless modifications are made to its content, the game will not be available in Australia. Although the government website generally provides clarification for a ‘Refused Classification,’ it simply states here, “For further information regarding the reason for this decision, please contact us.” GamesRadar+ has reached out to the ratings board and will share updates as they arrive.
Given the grim details in the ESRB’s description and the Steam Page indicating the game involves “gender discrimination, child abuse, bullying,” and more, it’s plausible that one or a combination of these aspects led to Australia’s decision. The only prior Silent Hill game to receive a ban in Australia was 2008’s Silent Hill: Homecoming, which was eventually released in a censored form the following year.
Surprisingly frequent bans still occur in the Australian gaming scene; recently, the much-anticipated fighter Hunter x Hunter Nen x Impact faced a ban ahead of its launch later this year. Stay tuned for updates, community stories, and more insights.