Summary
- Release Year: 2012
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up
- Platforms: PlayStation Vita
- Developers: WayForward
- Publishers: Konami
Silent Hill: Book of Memories (2012): A Unique Spin-Off in the Silent Hill Franchise
Introduction
Silent Hill: Book of Memories is a dungeon-crawling action role-playing game developed by WayForward Technologies and published by Konami. It was released exclusively for the PlayStation Vita handheld console in October 2012. The game is a spin-off of the popular Silent Hill survival horror series, but it features a distinct gameplay style and a unique storyline that sets it apart from its predecessors.
Gameplay
Unlike the traditional Silent Hill games, which focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and survival, Book of Memories emphasizes dungeon-crawling and cooperative multiplayer action. Players create their own custom characters and embark on a journey through various Otherworlds, which are alternate dimensions filled with monsters and deadly traps.
The gameplay is mission-based, with players tasked with completing objectives such as defeating enemies, solving puzzles, and collecting items. Players can explore the dungeons alone or team up with up to four other players via online or local multiplayer.
One of the unique features of Book of Memories is the use of the PlayStation Vita’s touch screen and rear touchpad. Players can use the touch screen to cast spells, solve puzzles, and interact with the environment. The rear touchpad can be used to control the camera and perform special attacks.
Story
The story of Book of Memories revolves around a group of teenagers who discover a mysterious book called the “Book of Memories.” The book contains the memories of a young girl named Alessa Gillespie, who was the protagonist of Silent Hill 1. As the teenagers read the book, they are drawn into the Otherworlds and must face their own inner demons.
The game’s story is told through a series of vignettes, each of which focuses on a different character. The player can choose to play as one of four different characters:
- Alyssa Gillespie: A young girl who is the reincarnation of Alessa Gillespie.
- Travis Grady: A truck driver who is haunted by his past.
- Henry Townshend: A writer who is struggling with his own mental health.
- Eileen Galvin: A nurse who is trying to find her missing sister.
As the player progresses through the game, they will learn more about the characters’ backstories and how they are connected to the Book of Memories. The game’s ending varies depending on the choices that the player makes throughout the story.
Reception
Silent Hill: Book of Memories received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s unique gameplay and cooperative multiplayer, while others criticized its repetitive missions and lack of scares. The game sold over 1 million copies worldwide, making it a commercial success.
Legacy
Silent Hill: Book of Memories is a unique and interesting spin-off in the Silent Hill franchise. It offers a different take on the series’ traditional gameplay, and its focus on cooperative multiplayer makes it a great game to play with friends. While the game may not be as scary as its predecessors, it still has a lot to offer fans of the Silent Hill series.
Conclusion
Silent Hill: Book of Memories is a solid dungeon-crawling action RPG that offers a unique take on the Silent Hill franchise. Its cooperative multiplayer, customizable characters, and intriguing story make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Review Score
6.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
