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Silent Hill f’s Success Extends Beyond Games
What was once a risky creative pivot has turned into a defining success story for Konami. Silent Hill f, the franchise’s first mainline entry set primarily in Japan, not only delivered a thematically rich narrative steeped in psychological horror, but also achieved strong commercial performance and recognition.
That momentum is now spilling into the real world, benefiting not just Konami but the people and places connected to the game’s creation.
Supporting Cast Finds Unexpected Recognition
Following the game’s release, several cast members gained attention by streaming their own playthroughs, including Konatsu Kato, Yuuka Iijima, and Natsuki Osaki. However, the most surprising outcome has involved two actors with relatively limited screen time.
Takeshi Masago and Tamami Hiraoka, who portrayed Hinako’s parents in Silent Hill f, have now been officially appointed tourism ambassadors for Gero City. The announcement was confirmed through a short promotional video shared online, marking an unusual but increasingly common crossover between games and regional tourism.
A Fictional Town Rooted in a Real Place
The connection is far from superficial. Kanayama-cho, a district within Gero City, served as the primary inspiration for Ebisugaoka, the haunting rural town featured in Silent Hill f. Its narrow streets, ageing wooden buildings, and quiet atmosphere closely resemble the environments players explore in the game.
By appointing Masago and Hiraoka as ambassadors, Gero City aims to highlight this connection and invite fans to experience the real-world locations that influenced the game’s unsettling setting.
Promoting Local Culture Through Gaming
In their new roles, the actors will promote Gero City’s attractions, culture, and local specialities via social media and public appearances. This includes spotlighting a local brewery that recently released Silent Hill f–themed sake and chocolates, further tying the game’s identity to the region.
The initiative reflects a broader trend in Japan, where local governments increasingly collaborate with video games to drive tourism and cultural interest following notable successes such as Ghost of Tsushima’s impact on Tsushima Island.
Silent Hill f’s influence reaching beyond the screen underscores the growing cultural weight of games, particularly those rooted in authentic regional inspiration. What began as a bold, creative gamble has now become a case study in how interactive entertainment can shape real-world curiosity, travel, and economic activity.
