Higurashi and When They Cry creator Ryukishi07 has discussed his work on Silent Hill f, comparing the game's blend of supernatural and psychological horror to, of all things, "salad dressing."

While anticipation for Silent Hill f—the upcoming title reviving a series dormant since 2012's last main entry—is high, writer Ryukishi07 has remained relatively quiet. This made his recent appearance at Anime Expo 2025 in Los Angeles particularly noteworthy.

During a panel with producer Motoi Okamoto and composer Akira Yamaoka, Ryukishi07 explained he approached this project differently from his novel writing, centering the narrative on a single core theme.

As reported by Famitsu via Automaton, Ryukishi07 stated that players will initially struggle to separate the game's supernatural and psychological horror elements, as they will feel intertwined. However, as the story unfolds, understanding will grow—and this, he said, is where the game "will be like a salad dressing."

Elaborating on the metaphor, he described how the two elements will eventually distinguish themselves, much like the oil and vinegar in a dressing separate after being initially blended.

If this comparison seems unusual, you're not alone. Ryukishi07 added that while players will uncover facts and clues about the town of Ebisugaoka, much will be left open to interpretation and speculation—a hallmark of what Silent Hill fans enjoy.

He also revealed that Silent Hill f's story extends beyond horror and torment. Like previous series entries, it explores deeply human themes such as love, sadness, and more.

Silent Hill f is not a sequel to any existing Silent Hill games. Publisher Konami confirmed on X/Twitter that it is a standalone story "independent from the series," a completely new title designed to be accessible even to those who have never played a Silent Hill game.

Okamoto highlighted that the terror stems from challenging combat, a visual and musical "juxtaposition between beauty and terror," and the "terrible beauty of the game’s monster design." Even the puzzles are reportedly "grounded in psychological anguish and suffering."

Set in 1960s Japan, Silent Hill f follows teenager Hinako Shimizu as she grapples with societal, familial, and peer pressures. As shown in the Japanese-language reveal trailer, it is the first Silent Hill game to receive an 18+ rating in Japan. The game launches for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series on September 25.