Silent Hill f Banned in Australia: Why the Horror Game Faces Refusal
Konami’s highly anticipated horror game, *Silent Hill f*, set in 1960s Japan, has been banned in Australia after receiving an “RC” (Refused Classification) rating from the Australian Classification Board (ACB). This means the game, in its current state, cannot be legally sold or distributed in the country.
While the ACB hasn’t explicitly stated the reasons for the ban, it’s widely understood that the game contains sensitive content such as violence, child abuse, and torture.
# Why Was Silent Hill f Banned?
Information released about *Silent Hill f* paints a picture of a particularly dark and disturbing game. Konami itself acknowledges the game’s mature themes on its Steam page, stating that it contains content such as: “discrimination, child abuse, bullying, drug-induced hallucinations, torture, and graphic violence.” Furthermore, it received an 18+ rating in Japan, a first for the *Silent Hill* series.
The Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) in North America rated the game “M” for Mature, citing “Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Partial Nudity.” Specific scenes, such as a character being burned alive in a cage and another having their face sliced during a ritual, are suspected to be key factors contributing to the Australian ban.
# What’s Next for Silent Hill f in Australia?
It remains unclear whether Konami will make changes to *Silent Hill f* to comply with Australian classification standards. Without modifications, the game will remain unavailable for official release in the country. No statement has been released by the publisher addressing the ban.
Set in 1960s Japan, *Silent Hill f* retains the series’ signature mechanics while incorporating cultural references and a dark, compelling narrative. However, its unsettling themes have sparked significant debate among players and rating boards alike. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how this situation will impact the game and how Konami will address the ban.