The mist-shrouded legacy of the Silent Hill franchise has found an unlikely new muse in the tranquil coastal landscapes of Scotland. Developers have confirmed that the upcoming installment, Silent Hill: Townfall, draws its atmospheric inspiration from St Monans, a historic fishing village nestled in the East Neuk of Fife. While the game is set in the fictional town of St Amelia, the architectural and geographical DNA of the real-world Scottish village serves as the foundation for its psychological horror setting.
From St Monans to St Amelia
St Monans is renowned for its striking harbor, zig-zagging breakwaters, and the ancient St Monans Parish Church, which sits precariously close to the crashing waves of the Firth of Forth. It is this unique blend of rugged coastal beauty and isolated charm that has been transposed into the eerie, desolate atmosphere of St Amelia. By grounding the supernatural elements of the game in a tangible, recognizable location, the creators aim to evoke a deeper sense of “folk horror” and grounded unease.
A Local Vision for Global Horror
The project is being spearheaded by No Code, a Glasgow-based studio known for its narrative-driven suspense titles such as Stories Untold and Observation. Partnering with publisher Annapurna Interactive and franchise owner Konami, No Code’s decision to look toward their own backyard for inspiration marks a significant departure for the series, which has traditionally leaned into Americana or abstract purgatorial landscapes. The choice highlights the growing influence of the Scottish games industry on the global stage, bringing local geography to a massive international audience.
The Silent Hill Renaissance
Silent Hill: Townfall is part of a broader revival of the iconic survival horror brand, which had remained dormant for nearly a decade. For the residents of the East Neuk, the village’s transformation into a digital nightmare offers a surreal point of pride. While St Monans is typically a destination for tourists seeking quiet scenery and fresh seafood, it will soon be recognized by millions of players worldwide as the haunting silhouette behind one of gaming’s most anticipated psychological thrillers.
