Exploring the Cult References in Silent Hill 2

The recent remake of Silent Hill 2 by Bloober Team successfully breathes new life into this beloved franchise, captivating both longtime fans and newcomers. While the game stays true to James Sunderland’s original journey, it also introduces fresh elements that fit seamlessly into the series’ overarching narrative. Particularly intriguing are the two new endings, which hint at broader connections within the Silent Hill universe, suggesting The Order’s chilling influence still looms over Silent Hill 2.

Since its launch, it’s become increasingly evident that Silent Hill 2 exists in a sort of narrative bubble, despite being the series’ most acclaimed installment. The first game follows Harry Mason as he delves into the sinister cult linked to the town’s malevolent energy and his daughter’s disappearance, while the third ties Heather Mason closer to The Order. James’ standalone adventure has always seemed detached from these events, but the additional endings in the remake suggest otherwise.

In the ‘Bliss’ conclusion, James ostensibly melds into the world of the videotape at the game’s conclusion, sidestepping the harsh reality and his overwhelming guilt. This surreal end is brought about by consuming the extract of the White Claudia plant, a nod to the PTV drug from the original Silent Hill, famously used by The Order for their rituals.

Meanwhile, the ‘Stillness’ ending in the remake pulls in elements from the town’s cult too. Utilizing the Key of Sorrow to access a critical item, players will spot the Halo of the Sun design on it—a symbol of The Order originating from Silent Hill 3. This ending, which echoes the ‘In Water’ storyline, underscores the links between various games in the series.

The Silent Hill 2 remake’s cult-centric endings delve deeper into the possibly inescapable grip of The Order on James Sunderland. Theories abound that the game might be portraying a torturous time loop, as evident from the Key of Sorrow’s location in a car eerily similar to James’. Additional notes available in New Game Plus mode further speculate that breaking free from this cycle might require the Order’s mystical powers. However, the narrative’s personal themes might also suggest that it’s James’ inner strength steering him away from the town’s dark influence, with the grim Bliss ending exemplifying what happens when he opts for denial.

Bloober Team has adeptly balanced the psychological and supernatural facets of Silent Hill, allowing for an interpretation that honors both paths. The PTV drug ties back to the mental horrors employed by Silent Hill’s occult forces, and James’ inner turmoil grounds the story’s mystical aspects, perpetuating an unsettling atmosphere that has always characterized the series.