Silent Hill Townfall reveals first-person gameplay and CRTV device

Screen Burn's Silent Hill entry ditches third-person views for first-person horror, starring Simon Ordell with an evolved CRTV device that replaces the classic radio. Players can now actively scan environments and tune into story signals.

Silent Hill Townfall reveals first-person gameplay and introduces protagonist Simon Ordell in its debut trailer. The horror game, originally announced in October 2022, features an evolved version of the series' iconic radio called the CRTV device. Screen Burn (formerly NoCode) is developing the title for Annapurna and Konami.

The CRTV device reimagines Silent Hill's radio

Writer/director Jon McKellan explained that the CRTV represents Screen Burn's take on the handheld radio that has been central to previous Silent Hill games. "Drawing on our previous experience designing interactive 'retro' user interfaces and VHS-style aesthetics, we wanted to take the handheld radio – an iconic tool of the Silent Hill series – and evolve it in our own way," McKellan said.

"The result of that evolution is the 'CRTV' – a lovingly crafted device that uses real retro technology and innovative techniques to produce the gritty, authentic audio and video used throughout the game," he added. Unlike previous Silent Hill radios that passively alerted players to enemies through static, the CRTV offers active functionality.

"Not only is it a useful tool in encounters – allowing Simon to 'see' through the environment and locate nearby threats – but it also picks up signals from around the town that unveil more of the story and even help guide Simon through some of the other challenges he faces," McKellan explained.

First-person perspective enhances narrative focus

McKellan justified the first-person viewpoint as essential for the game's design philosophy. "The CRTV especially could only truly work in first person, allowing the player to raise it into view while they explore, tune into signals and discover broadcasts, and gain an advantage in otherwise terrifying situations," he said.

The perspective change allows players to study narrative elements more closely while making "narrative-driven puzzles feel tactile and intricate," according to the developer. Screen Burn, known for Stories Untold and Observation, brings experience with interactive retro interfaces to their Silent Hill project.

What we don't know about Townfall

Neither Annapurna, Konami, nor Screen Burn have confirmed a release date for Silent Hill Townfall. The trailer suggests PlayStation 5 compatibility, but additional platforms haven't been announced. The developers also haven't detailed how the CRTV integrates with other Silent Hill elements like the series' psychological horror themes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Silent Hill: Townfall?

Silent Hill: Townfall is an upcoming horror game published by Annapurna and Konami, developed by Screen Burn, featuring a first-person perspective and protagonist Simon Ordell.

What is the CRTV device in Silent Hill: Townfall?

The CRTV is a handheld device that evolves the iconic Silent Hill radio. It uses retro technology to provide audio and video, helping Simon locate threats and uncover story elements.