Round Two: Atmosphere
Despite some sterling examples of atmospheric accomplishment – particularly in the original title and fan-favourite Resident Evil 4 – it’s Silent Hill that has created some of the genre’s most terrifying set-pieces. The opening sequence of Silent Hill 2, which has you running down the pathway? The first time you spot a something spasming in the fog? There can only be one winner here, folks – and you already know what it is, right?
Yes, Resident Evil arguably offers more variety when it comes to environments, but it’s Silent Hill’s expert pacing, pitch and pathos that claim this round. Congrats on some truly horrifying moments, Silent Hill – we will never look at an innocent hospital hallway in the same way again.