Though we weren't able to get a peek at the gameplay in the trailer, it seems that a closer, over-the-shoulder camera - ala Resident Evil 4 - is being adopted. What won't be adopted is that game's action-packed gameplay; Silent Hill Origins should stay as slow-paced and disturbing as ever, and Travis will pack weapons "unique to truckers" - hopefully it's not toxic gas from eating in one too many greasy truck stops.
Just as Konami failed to include any footage of Travis smacking around grotesqueries from beyond the grave, there was no hint of the game's touted "Cineractive" moments. These sound a lot like what you've been seeing in a lot of recent action games, like the new Tomb Raider - the view will shift to something a lot more movie-like, and you'll have to press buttons as they flash up on screen, resulting in slicker action. If what the Konami rep had to say is anything to go by, these moments will play a big part in Silent Hill Origins. Puzzles will too - knowing that fans of the older games miss the difficult and involved trickery of the originals, SHO will bring back tougher puzzles. No more hunting for keys and backtracking to find the door they unlock.
It's far too early to tell if Silent Hill Origins will live up to the freaky legacy of the last four games. With a seemingly endless ability to bring forth the darkest and weirdest moments in gaming, the series has a lot to live up to. However, it's obvious from the trailer and our talk that there's an understanding and respect for the series here. Whether or not its bizarre charms can be teased out of the PSP... we'll see as it shambles closer to release.
