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Silent Hill 3

Mysterious goings-on somewhere scary involving some monsters, we'd imagine.

Silent Hill 3 follows in the footsteps of its two predecessors by being only loosely based on the previous game. We have a whole new hero, fighting similar beasts in a similar environment. What could go wrong?

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Silent Hill 3 takes place outside the town of Silent Hill for the first time, with only the end of the game returning to the eerie town. We are transported to the town of the new hero, Heather. The game begins with Heather being as confused as the rest of us about what's going on. She is enjoying herself in her local mall when loads of beasties come and start attacking her. If this wasn't bad enough the world around her starts warping into some strange parallel universe.

The gameplay in this outing is very similar to the other games; a mixture of shoot-em-up with some horrendously annoying puzzles thrown in. It is a largely repetitive process of shoot some baddies with a range of weapons - from a mace - to a machine gun, and then solve a puzzle and get an object then take the object and solve a puzzle using the object to get you into a new area. Simple. The only thing that stops this being utterly mundane is the ever-increasing number of weird and wacky monsters you have to kill. And you don't have enough ammo to take out every monster either, so the game involves a fair bit of running around. The monsters are none too bright but they are larger and nastier than in previous games so you have to be on your guard. Every so often you'll get a cutscene explaining an element of the game's plot which features around four different characters, all of them adequately voiced by the game's cast.

Special mention must go to the graphics engine used in Silent Hill 3, which apart from making the game look a little better than its predecessor is also used to generate the cutscenes in real-time. The facial animation of the characters is the best I've ever seen on any gaming platform. The music and sound effects too are excellent, and attempt to unsettle you as you progress through the game.

All in all this may make you think that Silent Hill 3 is a good buy. There are some cautionary notes first of all. Firstly the plot is nowhere near as engaging as the first two, so you may be totally lost if you are new to the series. Also if you have played Silent Hill 1 it is a very similar premise, so it may not keep you too enthralled. Silent Hill 2's plot was far more involving and threw more surprises at you as you went along. Simply put, Silent Hill 3's storyline is just enough to keep the game moving but is none too interesting. Also, for all its bleeding walls and the occasional good set piece, Silent Hill 3 isn't as scary as it dearly wants to be. Scares come from the occasional spooky event, like the head falling off a mannequin, rather than the feeling of wrongness that was present in Silent Hill 1.

Disappointingly uninspired as it is, Silent Hill 3 is entertaining for a while, and you're likely to want to keep playing to see how the game is tied into the events of previous titles. But while that's enough to make the game worth renting, it doesn't have the necessary replayability or appeal to make it a must-buy outright. Maybe Silent Hill 4 will be a return to form, but sadly Silent Hill 3 is a game with limited shelf life and quite a mundane story.

68%

1. Wow, having just watched the video of Silent Hill 3 associated with this review, I have to a gree with Chris that graphically speaking the facial detail and animation is astoundingly good.

   Luke Wednesday, 23 July 2003, 03:06:10

2. well i think this is redicilous 68% should be higher this is one of the best games ever!!! the whole atmosphere is outstanding, classic terryfiying game-expierence,

   your not worth for playing this game :P

   goodbye

   paco Wednesday, 23 July 2003, 13:11:56

3. i also must say that 68% are a little bit stupid, i already finshed the game (european ;) ) and must say its far beyond 80%

   Dr.EVIL Wednesday, 23 July 2003, 15:14:38

4. what a lame review....

   potholes Wednesday, 23 July 2003, 15:16:18

5. I already heard this review before. Either this idiot(Chris Monk) just copied it or got to to review the game twice. Why should the same guy who doesn't like the game get to review it twice? You can already tell it's a scam. I've seen a few lame unknown sites give this game scores as low as 60%. Anyone who gives this game lower than an 80% should be ashamed, especially if they call themselfs professionals.

   Lorenz Wednesday, 23 July 2003, 15:38:56

6. No,

   This reviewer is in fact spot on. The production values are excellent, even more so than the two previous Silent Hill titles, but the story is very weak. Refreshing to read a review that doesn't gush on about how brill the game is, when this is actually the least of the three.

   smagpie Wednesday, 23 July 2003, 18:17:16

7. Who are these idiots ... complaining about the game .... it seems as thought these guys get annoyed with the fact that sequels are SIMILAR TO THE PREVIOUS GAME. Whoa. I mean this is probably one of those people that hated every Resident Evil after 2 and Mario Sunshine and Tekken 4 for being similar to the prequel. I will say this right now: If a prequel is given over an 80 percent and the sequel does not engage you as much as the first but in essence is simply a continuation, how does it deserve something like a 68? I will be the first one to say something like Tekken 4 or Resident Evil 3 are not nearly as inspired as previous versions ... but as long as the core is intact ... how is it suddenly "awful"?

   Relayer Friday, 25 July 2003, 02:41:0

8. However this is a very impressive website .... keep up the good work!

   Relayer Friday, 25 July 2003, 02:45:33

9. Best review of Silent Hill 3 I have read. I'm a long time fan of the series who enjoyed playing the game while it lasted, but couldn't ignore a feeling that the Silent Hill team has change in this latest installation of their game. It just doesn't have the genius of their earlier works and comes across as Silent Hill "lite" version.

   It feels like the Silent Hill team didn't really want to make this game, but just wanted to get the experience over with, which is how I felt when I played it.

   James Saturday, 26 July 2003, 15:48:58

10. "I haven't even played this game yet, and I believe that a 68% is a bit too harsh for this game." Has to be the stupidest comment I've ever read. You can't judge a game by it's looks alone. Sure graphics, etc are a big factor but if the gameplay isn't there then it simply doesn't matter how it looks.

    As the old saying goes, "You can't polish a turd".

    Mr Snuggles Monday, 28 July 2003, 05:15:29

11. Sure, a review is merely the opinion of its author... but damn, YOUR OPINION SUCKS! Haha! All jokes aside, no one can deny that it IS admirable to state your impressions, even if they are definately not the same as those of the majority. Props to you, but props to Silent Hill 3 even more!

    Grundhilda Thursday, 14 August 2003, 21:45:29

12. Silent Hill 3 is the best damn game ever! it has the best graphics and to add to it you get to be a really hot girl in the process.

    Rusty Shackleford Sunday, 17 August 2003, 13:04:55

13. this game is awesome....a bunch of friends come over and love watching me play this game and we all get the scares and love doing the puzzles together

    Claudia Tuesday, 19 August 2003, 11:30:17

14. I hated this game, who's with me?

    D-Man Tuesday, 19 August 2003, 22:19:58

16. wtf??? why do people hate this game??? how could they?!?!?!?! I thought this was a very good addition to the series... i thought it was definitly the scariest. The plot wasn't as good as the SH2 but i still enjoyed it... I thought the monster designes were the best of all the series (excluding those things that sound like sheep). The mood was great the puzzles at times made my head hurt... the graphics were amazing... i guess it all depends on taste.. but how could u say its uninspired??? i thought the evil hospital was the scariest place imagineable espically that little thing in the storeroom...alright...i really loved the game i loved all the silent hills equally for different reasons...chris ur a real jackass...

    sammy Tuesday, 19 August 2003, 22:53:59

17. Chris' comments sound alot like "Yeah, this band is good but you should have heard them back in the day." Why do you have to be so negative? All the Silent Hills have been breakthrough games, raising the level of psychological involvement to new heights. If all you want to do is blast zombies all day stick to Resident Evil. The Silent Hill series is an amazingly original, psyshologically disturbing, visceral gaming experience.

    Wudan Thursday, 21 August 2003, 14:51:27

18. i loved silent hill 3, i have only had the chance to make it through one time with my schedule... but it freakin rocks..... i plan on playing through w/ my extras soon... i didnt do so well only got like 6 1/2 stars... but hey its good for no help and first time.... and just to let you know.... 68%... uhhhh no... mor like over 90% the graphics on this game is awesome... and the plot is great if you have played all 3.... it all comes together in the end!!! and HEATHER ROCKS!

    gamerchick101 Thursday, 21 August 2003, 23:32:7

19. I'm buying this today, well, i sent my mum out with £45 to get it with, so i'm sat here waiting for it.. I started getting worried when i read this review.. and i'm glad that the general public disagree. I played silent hill 2 last night since i'm so excited, and after playing that you leave the console psychologically drained and i hope that SH3 "feels" the same..

    one big point that i think i should make is that, if you don't have any of the previous titles, you're bound not to know whats going on, the first two set the scene, this one should leave you in it..

    Wolf Saturday, 23 August 2003, 07:08:10

20. Well playing the game has somehow showed me the meaning of fear. This game is awsome and it contains so much history and information, that it makes it seems like if it did really happen! well anyways very very nice job man ill give it a 10/10 for the scariest game ever!

    Dan Sunday, 24 August 2003, 03:42:56

21. i loved it freaky(er) than1 or2 :-D :-P try it if you havent

    (WARNING MAY HAVE NIGHTMARES)

    cerberus Monday, 25 August 2003, 12:17:59

22. I just bought Silent Hill 3 a few days ago and I am very pleased with it. I am an avid player and a huge fan of the Silent Hill series, and this game has lived up to my expectacions. I'm glad that the gamimg industry is putting out such great games...and I hope they keep them coming.

    Dusty Tuesday, 26 August 2003, 23:12:32

23. This was by far the best of the series. Thats saying a lot because Silent Hill 1 was my favorite. 3 just takes it to a whole new level.

    This review was so biased it hurt, try to be a bit more professional next time.

    avinMan Wednesday, 27 August 2003, 18:53:11

24. I have to say that I disagree with Chris Monk's review. Of course SIlent Hill 3 can't beat part 1 because part 1 is what brought the series to life. But, just like Silent Hill 1 had it good things, and Silent Hill 2 had its good things, so that Silent Hill 3. I think that it was basically made to really explain everything to its loyal players, and they added a lot more blood, a lot more creatures, and a lot more terrifying moments. Heather was the perfect character and a perfect way to direct attention to women being able to be just as tough. I think she's even more tough than the guys in part 1 and 2. GIRL POWER! I can't wait to see Silent Hill 4, if there's going to be one.

    Melanie Wednesday, 27 August 2003, 21:54:19

25. this game is awesome, it is a graphic masterpiece for the ps2,eventhough the xbox is a powerful machine, this game take the graphics to the limits, and thats not the only good thing, it has one of the most amazing history lines ever.

    so a don`t think is a bad game at all, cuz everyone who can pick this one up, will enjoy it , does`nt matter if is a fan or not.

    ps.it is soooo disturbing

    ALUCARD Thursday, 28 August 2003, 11:13:35

26. hey

    ? Saturday, 30 August 2003, 20:48:28

27. i think 68% is a little weak, but the story line could be a bit better. all tother the game is very good and i keep going back for more, i give it a 85%

    thirdreason2000 Thursday, 4 September 2003, 10:24:14

28. i think 68% is a little weak, but the story line could be a bit better. all tother the game is very good and i keep going back for more, i give it a 85%

    thirdreason2000 Thursday, 4 September 2003, 10:27:21

29. I have to throw in my lot with Chris Monk about the lackluster plot. The biggest weakness, I felt, was Konami's failure to develop the main character. Heather, although exciting and charismatic, is not someone you'd care very much for

    Heathcliff Wednesday, 1 October 2003, 02:15:59

30. a think silent hill 3 is excellent.am jus past wher av found the life insurance key from the vendin machine.how far is that in the game,can any1 tell me?!!?

    JH2003 Tuesday, 18 November 2003, 10:54:59

32. dude sounds like ur not paying attention to what ur playing ur sure its silent hill and not tiger woods golf? everything and everyone PS2/X-PLAY/GAMERS.COM all say this is a 9 out of ten game and i agree from its fabilous artwork to articulous gameplay so readers dont listen to this dork that has no idea what he is talking about. buy the game you wont be dissapointed

    ted Saturday, 6 December 2003, 00:02:19

33. this cridic is horribly wrong in giving it an 68% LEARN HOW TO MAKE REVIEWS beacuse we all play games other than brittneys dance compitition

    ted Saturday, 6 December 2003, 00:05:9

34. ya mom

    joe Thursday, 18 March 2004, 07:48:15

35. I really enjoyed silent hill3 the animae and sounds are excellent but i thought this wasthe creepyest yet of the series, dont get me wrong the first two were great but i thought this was the creepyest. Hope fully SH4 will scare us even more. I can't wait for the movie.

    Jonathan Brooks Saturday, 20 March 2004, 08:25:49

36. I really enjoyed silent hill3 the animae and sounds are excellent but i thought this wasthe creepyest yet of the series, dont get me wrong the first two were great but i thought this was the creepyest. Hope fully SH4 will scare us even more. I can't wait for the movie.

    Jonathan Brooks Saturday, 20 March 2004, 08:26:28

37. annoying puzzles? you dare say this game has annoying puzzles!

    metatron man Friday, 9 April 2004, 03:43:48

38. well ive seen worse silent hill 3 reviews.

    metatron man Friday, 9 April 2004, 07:02:36

39. tang ina nyo silent hill kayo hindi ko matapos

    gago Friday, 16 April 2004, 07:56:58

40. right, silent hill 3, ok i thought the game was not that bad but not great. i love silent hill 1and 2 but this 1 i wouldnt even call it silent hill. silent hill 2 is the best, ok the background and graphics are good in silent hill 3 but i dident enjoy the game as much at i did with silent hill 2. i really think it was boring it started up ok but then i got bored with it, i couldnt be botherd finishing it but i did to see what happens at the end but it wasnt worth it. i tell you ill never play that game again. anyway i hope silent hill 4 is better then silent hill 3. right thats all i have to say.

    devil Thursday, 6 May 2004, 11:25:47

41. yeah!! heather is the best!!! have never seen better videos games giving so muchs feelings!!

    realy great work!

    yi xiang xi wang!

    wukong Thursday, 27 May 2004, 17:05:4

42. SH3 is an excellent game although it does not compare to the original silent hill, saying that i cant kill those damn horses in sh3, anyone any hints. :-p

    foyesgirl Saturday, 12 June 2004, 16:57:9

43. Ridiculous!! If you read the full plot and paid attention throughout the game it is the best one of the series. By the way, Silent Hill TWO has nothing to do with THREE, it is related to FOUR just as ONE is to THREE.

    Gaby Saturday, 26 June 2004, 03:27:52

44. :-D, not right at all, Silent Hill 3, is a brilliant game, and is absolutely worth buying!!

    Trust me, if you like Silent Hill 1 & 2, you'll love number 3

    Lars N Thursday, 1 July 2004, 05:42:23

45. yeah i dint think silent hill 3 was as entertaining as the other 2 but good none the less a great play but would give it more than 68% defo keep em cummin

    dani Wednesday, 1 September 2004, 11:38:46

46. who thinks the game rocks?it just kicks ass its as simple as that whos with me?

    dani Wednesday, 1 September 2004, 11:43:2

48. foyesgirl

    just shoot them all tillthey stop movin

    make sure you shoot them all though

    it wont work otherwise use your shotgun k

    good luck!

    dan Tuesday, 7 September 2004, 05:50:2

49. silent hill 3 is good...But i think silent hill 2 is much better

    ps.I have yet to play silent hill 4 so that might be better then both of them.

    ps2punk AMbeR Sunday, 6 February 2005, 00:14:49

50. *sigh* I tend not to agree with this review... What I like most about the Silent Hill games is that they have a style. And I found the third game to be much better than the second because it HAD a plot. Silent Hill 1 connects with 3, and Silent Hill 2 went off on its own thing. Though it may serve more of a purpose in future SH titles. To me, the third Silent Hill was the best.

    Sean B Thursday, 24 February 2005, 18:35:8

51. Sorry for the double comment...

    I read through this a couple more times, and I can't believe the crap I'm reading. It's almost like Chris Monk was made for first person shooters. "horrendously annoying puzzles thrown in"... What? I'm sorry, maybe it's just me, but the puzzles weren't that much of a problem. I don't mean to sound harsh, but you really need to pay attention to Silent Hill 1 and 3 before you go off and hack n slash the story. And a response about not having enough ammo.... YOU HAVE MELEE WEAPONS. God, I could kill the last boss with them. 68% is a childish score, and I'm saddened that you looked at this game the wrong way.

    Maybe you shouldn't review horror games.

    Sean B Thursday, 24 February 2005, 18:50:52

52. This Chris Monk is simply not a good gamer that his review turns out to be like this. "Annoying puzzle" means he isn't smart enough. "Don't have enough ammo" means he isn't a good player. Use your small brain dude, is it hard to run around the monsters? Is it hard to kill the monsters using melee weapon? "The monsters are none too bright", and so is Chris Monk.

    Ed Thursday, 26 May 2005, 10:41:20

53. Well although not completely, but yes, i wouldd agree, if i were to choose one out of Sh1,2,3,4 , and RE1,2,3,4. i would vote for re3. silent hill series scares you but you get kinda used to it, re scares you too but re3 terrorises you, the nemesis monster appears at the most unexpected places and you know you can do nothing about it, running away from that thing up close to your heels races your heartbeat, Further Re has a more scientific storyline, its biological warfare gone wrong, that is digestible, silent hill series is too far fetched, does not seem real at all.

    MAximus Monday, 19 December 2005, 18:51:56

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