[Community member VenusInFurs writes up a great post about Silent Hill: Shattered Memories and the themes of masculinity and its destruction. What other games have these sorts of themes? Want to see your own writing on the front page? Write something awesome and put it in the C Blogs. -- Kauza]
Emasculation is, by definition, the castration of a man, but this castration has gotten less literal and more metaphorical in our generation. Emasculation now means to make a male feel less of a man by humiliation. In other words, you weaken a man by treating him as if he were a woman. You take the machismo away from him. You leave him naked in the middle of a crowded street. You show his wounds to the world. I’m not interested in the physical pain of castration, but more of the mental. We live in a world where to be a man means to be powerful, confidante, a sex machine, etc.
You, my lovely reader, have heard it all before, but I would argue that men, unlike women, are more sensitive, more affected by emotional pain, more prone in the act of giving up than most woman are. Now, what is the connection between castration and video games? Please, continue reading for the answer.
Silent Hill: Shattered Memoires (SH:SM) is a study of the male psyche. The game takes a look at what defines a male and shatters those ideas. It’s game about emasculation. It’s a game that I and many men can relate to. It’s a game only men can fully understand.
As most of you know by now, I always start my blogs with a personal experience then work my way up to how the video game in question relates to my experience. This will be no different, except this; out of everything I’ve written this is something I hold dear to my heart. Get ready for some heavy stuff.
I never associated with anyone. I even avoided speaking, and shrank more and more into my corner. At work, in the office, I even tried not to look at anyone, and I notice very well that my colleagues not only considered me an odd man, but seemed to look at me with a certain loathing.
- Fyodor Doestoevsky
How can I understand women when I don’t understand myself.
- Kunt Hamsun
What the fuck does it mean to be a man! How the fuck do I talk to a women! They all fucking ignore me!
- Charles Bukowski
Those are some quotes from my favorite authors. I always felt I was alone in my thinking until I discovered their work. As a child I spent more time at home than outside with friends. Even now, I still have fear of the outside world. I try to go out and meet people, and I have had some success, but I always get this uneven feeling when I’m out at a restaurant or bar -- a feeling of not belonging. A feeling of not being myself.
A couple of weeks ago I commented on the Japanese trailer for Catherine on Youtube. I said, “Wow, this game looks amazing! It’s too bad I don’t have a PS3, but when I do get one, Catherine will be the first game I get!” I made the comment late at night, and quickly fell asleep. The next day I received a response that said, “You’re a virgin fa**ot loser who probably j**ks off to anime. Why do you want to play this game? You’re a pervert. Go back and j**k off to cartoons again you loser.” Now, how do I respond to a message like this? I could have just ignored it, but I didn’t. My reply: “Why do you have to insult me?” I’m not going to post our entire conversation, but the user never stopped insulting me and continued to call me a virgin fa**ot (both of which is untrue), but I kept my cool and never insulted the user back.
From experience, books, and people I’ve known, I have come to the conclusion that when a man acts like that it’s because they’re unhappy; something is not going well in their lives. It could be a lack of sex, the wanting of a significant other, or something else, but the question of emasculation always comes up. Did this user act this way because of what a perception of a man is? Does he think it’s all about sex? Is he disappointed because of the lack of experience he had, or is he just an assh*le? Whatever the reason is, there is no denying that there are people who act this way because they don’t fit the worlds perception of what a man is.
Last semester in school, my classmates and I decided to go to a bar/club to celebrate the end of the semester. I didn’t want to go, but went just to socialize. We arrived at the bar and everything went fine. I got myself a glass of water (I hate alcohol). Some of the girls with us ordered water as well, but apparently it’s okay if a woman orders water, but its different story when a man does. My classmates made fun of me because of it and I laughed it off.
We continued to talk and laugh, then the guys started to brag about how many girls they had sex with. I really don’t know why they decided to this, but I am an open person -- I don’t hide anything -- and I told them I only had sex with people I’ve had relationships with. I told them this and they all laughed. I said I’m not closed to the idea, but the opportunity never opened up to me (things have change now). They didn’t care for my excuse and just made fun of me, as if I was not man in their eyes .They made fun at how skinny my body is and how feminine my voice sounds. After all that, I decide to leave. The guys apologized to me, but with a big grin in their face. It’s easy to see they didn’t mean it. I left the bar and never spoke to them again. During my walk home I was reminded why most of my friends are women.
Before I start to talk about SH:SM, I would like to mention the Silent Hill movie. SH:SM is a remake of the first game, and to be honest, they’re completely different. The movie, unlike the game, changed the protagonist from a man to a woman. I find this interesting. Why can’t a mainstream film show a man who is scared? Why can’t a mainstream film show a man who is insecure? Why is it okay if a woman show those feeling, but not a man? I think fans of Silent hill know exactly what I’m talking about. It seems that it’s okay to show a weak woman on the big screen, but change the sex and it suddenly becomes “unrealistic.” It’s something that bothered me throughout the film and I thought it deserved a mention here.
Silent Hill:Shatterd Memories is, in the humble opinion of your faithful writer, the definition of an adventure game. The game has no action whatsoever. Story and exploration is all you do. There are hours of you walking into a school and just exploring the area – no monsters, no blood, just exploration in its purest sense. The immersion the game offers is unlike anything I ever played. The story is one of originality and truth.
SH:SM deals with a father looking for his daughter in a snow storm. Every character he encounters are women; women who are stronger than him; women who help him out; women with confidence. SH:SM is filled with sexual imagery, but it’s not exploitative; there’s meaning behind it. When Harry, the father, looks at a poster of a sexy girl, the game reads that and determines what ending you’re going to get. I will try not to spoil anything, but this game has some of the most disturbing writing I’ve ever witness in a video game. Subjects like molestations are out into play in this game in a big way.
Actually, at one point you receive a message from a man asking a women to put on a “little girls dress” and pretend she’s a kid. There is a therapy session in between each level, and during these sessions you're asked to answer a series of questions. I answered each of these questions truthfully, as if I was Harry. I answered truthfully to questions like: Have you ever cheated? Were you popular in school? Are you depressed and lonely? I must note that depending on the ending you get, you may come up with a different conclusion than I have, but isn't that the fun of video games? Your actions in the therapy sessions and in the games world determine the type of ending you get.
The game has a number of endings and depending on your actions; you can get a “good” ending, “bad” ending, or something different all together. The ending I got was something that shocked me. Something that made me think; something that told me that this game was truly about emasculation. I will now present you with the ending I got during my first play-through. Please, if you have not played the game, I still encourage you to watch the video. This 1 minute video explains what I’m trying to say.
I don’t know about you guys, but this ending moved me. I felt for Harry. I understood him. Its bad enough I spoiled one ending for you guys, but I refuse to spoil anything else. The world of insecurity is painted on the walls of each level in this game. It presents a man who is scared; a man who doesn’t have all the answers -- Harry goes through what most men go through in their lives. He tries to find comfort in women, but doesn’t have the confidence to do so. He tries to be brave, but fails every time he does. He’s not some super hero. He’s represents the fear that all men have. He’s human. He’s no different than the characters I’ve read in some of my favorite novels. He, in many ways, is me. I applaud the developer for having the guts to present an entire game absent of any kind of combat and instead focus on the characters and their thoughts. This is truly a special game.
We are always having discussions about how women are portrayed in games, but what about men? I'm sorry, but most men are not brave, handsome, sexy, or confident. It's refreshing to have a game that presents men in more of a realistic manner.
It’s not every day you find a game you can relate to. For me, Braid and Silent Hill: Shattered Memories are the only games to affect me emotionally. I find it sad that this game didn’t get the recognition it deserves, but as the time passes, SH: SM is becoming more, and more of a cult classic. It is truly one of my favorite games of all time.
That comment you got about Cathrine is out of place and beyond unnecessary. When I heard Cathrine was not going to see North America, I thought, that's a damn shame. And I knew it couldn't be true. Too many hints were flying around and when it became official I sang it's graces. I must really be into hentai then right? Because I'm looking forward to this odd puzzle game that appears to be bleeding personality and style. Yeah that has to be the only reason for anyone to play this. I mean, if it wassn't for eroticism then what is it for? It's just like first person shooters right, anyone who plays those just has a blood fetish, they're all sadomasochistic, that's got to be it right?
I have yet to play this game although interestingly enough I have the soundtrack for it. You make it sound deeply compelling considering how outspoken you are of it connecting with you on a personal level. I like Silent Hill, and you're right, it is odd that they would switch the man for a woman in the movie. But I suppose it is for the grander appeal. I like the movie, one of the few based on a game that I believe was executed well.
This was exceptional, really. Thanks for the read.
Also, I fixed that Deus Ex post. :P
Check it out and tell me if it makes the cut now.
Great bl... Screw it, from now on just assume that I'm going to think it's a great blog ok? I'm tired of saying that at your blogs.
I still plan to play this game, I'm just having a hard time finding a copy. So I won't watch your ending, who knows, maybe I'll end up with the same one?
This all kind of reminds me of scissors blog about Fragile-another game I want play but can't find. And again, I'm finding similar qualities with you guys and myself. Awkwardness in socialising with others, not truly connecting with "manly" dudes, and I prefer to stay at home too.
Seriously, stop copying me guys. I know, I know, I'm awesome and everything, bla bla bla... It's getting creepy ok, just stop it.
I see what you're getting at, but you're trying to talk about mainstream media. When Hollywood directors make a movie that attempts to appeal to the largest amount of demographics all at once, they can't portray something that is realistic. That's why you don't see more mainstream films with "weak" males.
I, though, often don't subscribe to mainstream beliefs. I've played, read and watched plenty of media which showcases the innner and outer emasculation of a character. Hell, Lords of Shadow was actually half-way there (if only Patrick Stewart shut the fuck up and let a cutscene or two explain something).
I can sort of relate to you on the bar scene, but I've been forcing myself to go to bars and clubs for much a long time now that I've starting to get into it. I've danced with random people and had a good time. I've even gotten piss drunk and sang Bohemian Rhapsody with my friend/brother Jim (who was totally sober) and two other people at a bar.
Still, this game sounds absolutely amazing in your description. I've heard it's not the greatest of the series, but it was supposed to be an enjoyable romp. I'll definitely seek it out.
This was such a hard game to find. Actually, it took me a month to find. I went all over the city, and finally decided to go to the gamestop across from where I live and...yeah...they had it...lol
That store ever has anything, so I amused they wouldn't have it.
Dude, I went to 9 different stores in one day in the city trying to find that game, but nothing.
Promiscuity, alcohol and boasting about sexual conquests has about as much to do with masculinity as killing everything we eat and beating the shit out of every other breeding male. These days it means fuck all. While, at your age, there are lots of gents who like to prove their masculinity in these pointless ways, once you leave university/college most people will look down on idiots like that, those that don't are just trying to lie to themselves and will spend most of their time wishing they were still in their early 20s.
I don't understand manly pressures very well. To me it seems easy to ignore but then again, I'm sure men find women's problems to be silly and easy to ignore as well.
SH:SM was very promising and I truly enjoyed it until I hit the third or fourth time I had to run past those monsters without any kind of weapon. It wasn't scary for me - it was annoying. Like, super annoying. Also walking around town just looking at things got really boring after a while. I did like those "psychological" pieces, though -- I thought it added a nice touch.
"I'm sorry, but most men are not brave, handsome, sexy, or confident."
Truer words have never been spoken. I feel like you just described me in a nutshell. Ironically, my friends are all male. I don't think I've ever had a female friend. Many acquaintances, but no female friends.
It may be less attractive from a world's eye-view, but it's sincere. Like Immortalwaster said; being an alpha male these days doesn't mean shit. You can be who you and live the way you want, circumstances permitting. A woman can be the leader of a household financially, while the guy takes care of their children. You can either let the stereotypical stigma of that get to you, or come to terms with that being who you are and live comfortably.
Personally though, I can't relate to it much. I can't relate to being a macho asshat much neither, but there are certain traits to that I've found beneficial. One of them namely, being able to fight - a primal survival mechanism I remember reluctantly having to learn. I think it's more accurate nowadays to consider violence a human thing, rather than a masculine thing, though obviously males've been the biggest propagators of violence in history. To take it further, I'm intrigued by violence in general - not to the point that I'll read up on serial killers, but I mean the visceral action of it. The adrenaline build up, the tension during, and the release afterward. Which kinda makes it weird that I don't like UFC. Probably 'cause I get my fill through fighting games. And beating myself up.
As a man who is really a 40-year-old woman trapped in a man's body but actually is a 9-year-old Egyptian girl with an old soul, I can certainly appreciate when a game tries to make men (and women for that matter) more realistic. Hyper macho alpha dudes are about as funny to me as hyper sexualized scantily clad women. I recognize that they are tools, vehicles with which you experience a game. Like a hammer with biceps or a tape measure with tits. I think my favorite male character is Cyan from Final Fantasy III. He was just a father and husband who loved his family very much and fought to avenge them. I can appreciate that.
Awesome man! I agree with you, we could use more games like this, I love SH-SM and I replayed it loads of times. And It's a shame that thanks to poor sales we probably aren't going to see a sequel or a game like it because it could have been even better with some fixes. I'm like you in a way too, I think most of us are. But most people are too afraid of what others think to truly show or say what they feel. I met a guy when I stared studying recently and we often talk about how absurd it is that some people actually believe that perfect people like many mediums portray really exist, and what's even crazier is that they try really hard to become that thing, and I say thing because a man without feelings and flaws is no man. :P Gosh I love your blogs man!
First of all, I'm sorry about how awful your peers are. Really, we aren't all like that.
Second of all, this blog intrigued me so much that I read up on the game on Wikipedia. Near the end it says, about your ending, "If Harry was a slacker during the game, the video shows Dahlia slapping Harry, taunting him and calling his novels "shit", saying that nobody reads them while he does nothing to fight back allowing Dahlia to abuse him. This ending is called "Wicked and Weak." " So I'm not going to comment on that (as I have not played the game and I do not know you), but it seems like if you at least tried to make a difference, you should get a better ending than that. Maybe you just used up all your strength, idk.
Beyond that I disagree with your assessment that Harry is not brave (again, this is based purely on the Wikipedia article). He has to evade ice monsters and take a leap of faith into a bottomless chasm, among other things. There's being brave, there's being fearless, and then there's being a survivor, which sounds more like Harry: doing what you must to survive, but not really striving to excel. The bare minimum, but that's a kind of bravery in itself.
Finally, just as a point of interest, apparently I am not very similar to you guys; I don't really think "Awkwardness in socializing with others, not truly connecting with "manly" dudes, and I prefer to stay at home too" describes me too well... although I do not get along well with others romantically, so there is that.
Unfortunately, my close group of friends does have some of those stereotypical alpha-male-leaning tendencies.. most frustrating to me is homophobia. I'm not gay, but that's only because of my love (and paradoxically, paralyzing fear) of boobies (yet I don't have the guts to ask a girl out). It's really quite infuriating.
Anyways that was incoherent and stuff but I need to do homework so I will now play super meat boy (you know it's true).
"but it seems like if you at least tried to make a difference, you should get a better ending than that."
I've gotten all the endings for the game. When I first played it; I played it conservatively. You have to understand that this game reads everything you do. For example, you can look at a women's breast if you want, and depending on that, your ending will vary.
"There's being brave, there's being fearless, and then there's being a survivor, which sounds more like Harry: doing what you must to survive, but not really striving to excel. The bare minimum, but that's a kind of bravery in itself. "
Well, the game forces you to do that to progress, but you need to play the game. The bottomless pit is actually one of the best parts of the game! It's not what you think.
You're right, I didn't put "effort" or picked certain choices in the game which is why I got that ending of the game, but nonetheless it was still fuckin' awesome! I very much enjoyed it.
"Finally, just as a point of interest, apparently I am not very similar to you guys; I don't really think "Awkwardness in socializing with others, not truly connecting with "manly" dudes, and I prefer to stay at home too" describes me too well... although I do not get along well with others romantically, so there is that."
I am the direct opposite of you. It really is strange. Romantically I never had a problem, but when it comes to friends; I never really had a lot. I know, it sounds strange, but that's how it always worked for me. Most of my friends are girls, and I've had successful relationships with them, but I never had a "guys night out", or many guy friends. You would think I would be bad in the romantic department, but I'm actually pretty good at it.
"I've gotten all the endings for the game. When I first played it; I played it conservatively. You have to understand that this game reads everything you do. For example, you can look at a women's breast if you want, and depending on that, your ending will vary."
Does it give you any lenience? Say you accidentally oogle a boob, it would have to be a pattern of behavior like that to get you the ending related to that?
"Well, the game forces you to do that to progress, but you need to play the game. The bottomless pit is actually one of the best parts of the game! It's not what you think."
If I ever get a Wii, I will check it out.
You should give me lessons. :P Everytime I find that I am romantically interested in a girl, I am to scared that I will mess it up to try anything.
Actually, most of my acquaintances are female, but my three best friends - practically the only people I hang out with outside of school - are male. I guess I just found the guys who weren't total jerks -- although we still basically do the same stuff as most people, I guess, just with less douchiness. If that makes sense. We're competitive and constantly insult one another but it's all in good fun.
Yeah, it does have to be a pattern of some sort. If you stare a certain pic long enough, or stare at the numerous sexual imagery, then the game decides your ending.
Dude, the game is kind of two games in one. I left it out, but there is a therapist session in between each "level". How you answer the therapist questions determine your ending as well. I wrote about this about in the blog, but later took it out 'cause of spoilers.
I answered every question honestly. For example, some of the questions are: Have you ever cheated? Are you scarred of the outside world? Were you popular in high school? I answered each of those question as if I was the protagonist in the game.
Damn, I hope I didn't spoil anything for you. I left that and other things out on purpose.
I never had a male freind. I had male acquaintances, but no friends. I get along with women better. In fact, I went on a date about a week ago; it went alright, nothing happen, but I'm not afraid to ask a girl out. My longest relationship was of 3 years. Actually, I wrote a blog about it. Read it if you're interested: How I learn To Be A Better Man
Im in the middle of Shattered memories right now so I didn't see the video, but I got the jist of it I suppose. I'm the same way, I never feel right around people like the guys you describe. I just right it off as an unfortunate reality that this is the way society is.
Dude, PM when you get the ending! I would love to know what ending you get 'cause it can change your presumption of the game. You conclusion may not be the same as mine, but that's what makes the games so great!
Spoil anything? I read the entire Wikipedia article, including the plot synopsis. It's already spoiled XD
However, it really does sound like it would be a game you have to play to really experience, and it didn't make a ton of sense, so I think I could still enjoy it.
That's OK, I'll be your male friend! :D Not sure if it counts over the internet though. Have you ever been to a dtoid meetup to see any of these people you feel similar to irl?
I asked a girl out last week for the first time... over facebook... now I think she's avoiding me XD The downsides of dating! It has not been as much of a blow as I expected, fortunately.
I notice that video is labelled as the normal ending. What are the other endings?
@ Venus Will do, but it might be slow going as I only play when my friend comes over, due to our silent hill tradition. Hopefully sometime in the next month I can get it finished, I'd guess I'm around half-way through.
Excellent writeup! I can relate to being unsure of what it means to be a man. It's full of contradictions, and you're supposed to keep up the old traditions while at the same time keeping a modern attitude. I'm constantly at odds with who I am, what I'm interested in, and what I want to do, and it's reached the point where I don't really like sharing anything with anybody because it's always thrown back as an attack to my masculinity. I know a lot of it is male posturing and that whole bullshit alpha male mentality that we as a species still haven't grown out of, but in your bar situation for example you can't win. Either you take it and you're seen as complacent so it continues, or you defend yourself and it escalates, or you do what you did and have people wonder why you're so offended because they were "just kidding around".
Take that video. Harry is in a lose/lose situation there. He takes her abuse, or tries to find outside help to resolve it (because it certainly sounds like she's done listening to him) then he's perceived as a weak and pathetic man who can't deal with his own problems. If he stands up for himself... well in that situation he has to physically defend himself... he's automatically charged with domestic violence and is known as the guy who beats up women.
I can't say it isn't complicated being a woman. I'm sure they are going through similar things what with having to be a modern woman who is empowered, but there's still the pressure to fill the roles they were expected to fill in the past. But I can say from the perspective of the the gender that used to be "on top", there is still very much the expectation to keep that mentality while still accepting equality. I'd like to think I'm good at the latter as I believe in gender equality, but trying to ignore the contradictions and keep both balanced is really tough.
Not to say I don't mind Macho stereotypes in my media. I mean, there was a time about... 7-ish years ago, where it was this constant push to portray men as... well maybe not feminine but certainly much less masculine. And people got sick of it, and we've been hit over the last few years with more macho media. What bothers me the most though about this recent stuff is how close to home it hits. Maybe my memories are tainted by youth, but I remember the "macho" heroes of the past as being pretty absurd. Nobody could possibly seriously act like that, could they? I hear dialog in Gears of War, or any modern military shooter, and I know scores of douchebags that are exactly like that. It's incredibly depressing, as these are the people who still at my age give me shit for being interested in gaming.
F**k, is it okay to say that I played this game for about 5 minutes, got to a monster scene, turned the game off and never played it again. This whole emasculation issue is even a serious problem for me as I got the shit scared out of me the first time I played Dead Space 2, and then the same thing when playing Dead Space. I then tell myself I need to "man up" and stop being such a "pussy". even though I enjoyed it afterwards, I still thought I was kinda pathetic, it made me feel really bad. I'm not sure what this means, but all I know is when I told my friend, he burst out laughing. I wacked him in the jaw.
The fact that I get scared when I play a game, but can fearelessly smack a guy in his jaw (even though he was my friend and don't worry it wasn't really, really haard) completely boggles my mind.
Shattered Memories, to me, will always be a failure of a video game because it's executions on everything are very poor. The PI system, the scares, the gameplay, the "exploration" and the writing. Everything except for the music. People try to hype up this game as something of worthy quality because "IT HAS DEEP MEANING GUYS IT'S SO AMAZING" but that alone shouldn't cut it for a video game.
Of course, this is obviously just my opinion and everyone has theirs. If anyone honestly wants to give this game a shot, I only recommend them to rent it because as I said, as a video game it's very poor and a game like this would have been better executed as a "choose your own adventure" novel.
I don't think I can really relate to him, but I fully understand the fear of not being "manly enough". Just like women are objectified, men also get a similar problem on the figure of being strong, brave and bold. Some people confront it easily, but others have a hard time to show it.
This was quite excellent, in fact, I really really want to finish playing Shattered Memories next time I get the chance. I never really knew what to think of you Venus, your background sounds almost exactly like mine, but I didn't know if you saw things like I did, and this blog proves you do. It's very good.
The issue of emasculation really does need to come up more often not just in modern day literature and media but in our everyday conversations between everyone. It's a whole side to the male psyche that gets stepped on every day and it's something I think every guy is somehow dealing with in one way or another.
This is probably the best thought-provoking article I've read on this lovely site for a good long while, and I agree wholeheartedly. More games (hell, media in general) should explore these kinds of themes, and I for one hope they will.
This is probably the best thought-provoking article I've read on this lovely site for a good long while, and I agree wholeheartedly. More games (hell, media in general) should explore these kinds of themes, and I for one hope they will.
Absolutely brilliant blog. I remember hearing about this game before and forgot to check up on it later after I found that the EU release was a few months later than the American. I can definately relate to the issue of emasculation personally, being of similar minds with regard to men that feel sexual conquests are the measure of themselves.
I'm not sure how it is in your part of the world, but in Ireland, the media has finally begun to highlight the issue of suicide and depression in young men being far to prevalent. Interesting to see a game approach the topic.
Best piece I've ever read here. I'm not a man like you, I'm (or was) athletic, social, big, strong, popular, but under all that there was always that pressure to be a better "man", live up to my father and older brothers examples and it fucked my life up for years till I learned to just live for me. A real man doesn't have to be a big strong pussy hound. A real man is just honest and decent, with themselves and those around em. Awesome Charles B. Quote too. I think I may write my first blog on the subject of what a man should be.
Shit. Just to clarify I wasn't trying to sound like such an asshole with my comment. Tired as hell and didn't word some things right. Please, I meant no offense.
Oh cool, so now you're all going to endlessly bitch about manhood too? Good to know we're going to attack things like "bravery" and "confidence" now, such unnecessary stupid traits for a person. In fact video games should only have hideous women who are jacked up on steroids and men who fall to the ground and cry and slit their wrists anytime anything happens.
I recently went through SH:SM again with a friend. It's a little embarrassing answering some of the questions Dr.Kauffman asks of you in the game, but fine if you're in understanding company. To be honest, I'm somewhat of a Silent Hill fanatic/completionist. I've bought every Silent Hill game, day 1, new and played each through completion, getting all the endings, items, etc. Though, I also like Resident Evil and have played through all of them and their respective spinoffs, I still prefer Silent Hill.
I know this game, among all of the 3rd party studios that developed Silent Hill get a lot of flack. Especially, because it has a vastly different formula and is a remake (or re-imagining) of a game that many hold dear to them. But, if you want an honest opinion from a diehard fan, I actually prefer Shattered Memories over the original Silent Hill, seriously. I think this game did far better at letting the player relate to Harry and his situation with a modern, less cryptic approach, and it worked. I understand how many find Harry to be "brave" for running from the demons and setting out to find Cheryl, but you have to realize, he is RUNNING from the demons. The story deals with a lot of inner turmoil for Harry. Not once does he acknowledge that the demons even exist to others, he simply runs from them and pretends he never encountered them. The ice sections of the game resemble the memories he's choosing to deny and the sad truths that he will have to face. Though, this theory is ending dependent. In one of the endings, these are taken as illusions put in place by another equally important character.
I feel Shattered Memories does many things that other games have been afraid to do, play with the player, creating a connection between the player and the game. Climax studios took a big chance by not allowing Harry to attack in this game. That takes away a huge part of the Male identity/archetype, being able to fight for your cause. But, it wasn't too farfetched of an idea, if you've played any of the original Silent Hills (Excluding Origins & Homecoming), the fight mechanics were clunky and unreliable in regular situations, given the character you were controlling had no experience in combat, thus running was usually a safe alternative. My friend (male), whose typically a soft spoken and kind individual, who played it HATED the running sections of the game. He kept shouting "This is so stupid, I can't do anything!" over and over. He was extremely frustrated that there was no way to fight back, save for a temporary flare. So, I ended up eventually taking over for him on those parts. But, I think Climax studios had something, maybe unintentionally going for them with the running sections. Watching a male player, put in a helpless situation, where he is forced to run, instead of stand up for himself, will create a dissonance between what the male wants and is expected of him and how he is forced to give up those archetypical reactions to a situation in order to ultimately win.
Regardless of how many reviewers will bash the running sections or how it's not "Silent Hill", I think anyone who is a real Silent Hill fan will appreciate Climax studio's attention to detail, unique psychological profiling, and throwbacks/nods to previous Silent Hills.
P.S. I think Harry was given a more respectable death in this game than in Silent Hill 3.
I got to say this is one of the best reads I've had in a while, and I understand where you are coming from with all of this. I've had a couple of jobs where all that matters is the number of women you've been with and if that number isn't high enough you will never hear the end of it. This game when I played it was amazing, luckily for me I was able to get the "good" ending but after seeing your "bad" ending I see that he could be considered weak (cause he really is) but sometimes to bravest thing to do is to not fight back. I mean what would he gain by beating his abusive wife she wouldn't respect him anymore, if anything she'd use it on him to land him in jail. It's true that video games do need to portrait both men and women better but I don't think they will outside of smaller games because of the mass majority of people don't want to or can't understand another way of thinking outside of their own. Who knows maybe I'm wrong here but hers hoping someone learns something by reading this.
P.S. I also can't wait for Catherine to be released looks like a good game that does a good job of portraying the goods and bads of relationships outside of the more the better philosophy.
After reading all this, I find the point of this blog unsettling. I agree with everything yet maybe cause I can relate to your tendencies to behave as who you are. In the end, that fact that we are Human is the point that never gets across, its a the thing sometimes that is never seen in a person. I dislike that, but... EH! Whatcha ganna do? I learned along time ago to move along, F*ck anyone else cause theirs someone more special than them! Me! >X3 hehe! Not that I'am dumb enough tho to deny any occacasion! This is a big beautful world! I ain't ganna deny it anything! .....Hmm..my views are conflicting but whatever >XD
Destructoid is an open discussion community. You don't need to "audition" to post a comment - just speak your mind. We respect differing opinions on the site, so have at it. Be smart, funny, insightful, clueless, or cute -- but back it up with substance. Keep your cool, keep it fun. We only ask that you act respectfully and above all: don't be a troll and ruin it for everyone else. Don't bring down gamers or we'll, you know, gently shoot you in the face and stuff you into a flaming mailbox. Each comment is your opportuntity to make this community awesomer. Is that even a word?
Avoiding the banhammer only requires common sense: spamming, trolling, racism, NSFW stuff, and other forms of sucking will not be tolerated. If anyone is griefing please report abuse. Be good. Don't suck!
Contest:
1:00 PM on 05.28.2011 | 
I have yet to play this game although interestingly enough I have the soundtrack for it. You make it sound deeply compelling considering how outspoken you are of it connecting with you on a personal level. I like Silent Hill, and you're right, it is odd that they would switch the man for a woman in the movie. But I suppose it is for the grander appeal. I like the movie, one of the few based on a game that I believe was executed well.
This was exceptional, really. Thanks for the read.
Also, I fixed that Deus Ex post. :P
Check it out and tell me if it makes the cut now.
I still plan to play this game, I'm just having a hard time finding a copy. So I won't watch your ending, who knows, maybe I'll end up with the same one?
This all kind of reminds me of scissors blog about Fragile-another game I want play but can't find. And again, I'm finding similar qualities with you guys and myself. Awkwardness in socialising with others, not truly connecting with "manly" dudes, and I prefer to stay at home too.
Seriously, stop copying me guys. I know, I know, I'm awesome and everything, bla bla bla... It's getting creepy ok, just stop it.
I, though, often don't subscribe to mainstream beliefs. I've played, read and watched plenty of media which showcases the innner and outer emasculation of a character. Hell, Lords of Shadow was actually half-way there (if only Patrick Stewart shut the fuck up and let a cutscene or two explain something).
I can sort of relate to you on the bar scene, but I've been forcing myself to go to bars and clubs for much a long time now that I've starting to get into it. I've danced with random people and had a good time. I've even gotten piss drunk and sang Bohemian Rhapsody with my friend/brother Jim (who was totally sober) and two other people at a bar.
Still, this game sounds absolutely amazing in your description. I've heard it's not the greatest of the series, but it was supposed to be an enjoyable romp. I'll definitely seek it out.
This was such a hard game to find. Actually, it took me a month to find. I went all over the city, and finally decided to go to the gamestop across from where I live and...yeah...they had it...lol
That store ever has anything, so I amused they wouldn't have it.
Dude, I went to 9 different stores in one day in the city trying to find that game, but nothing.
SH:SM was -the- reason I bought a Wii.
SH:SM was very promising and I truly enjoyed it until I hit the third or fourth time I had to run past those monsters without any kind of weapon. It wasn't scary for me - it was annoying. Like, super annoying. Also walking around town just looking at things got really boring after a while. I did like those "psychological" pieces, though -- I thought it added a nice touch.
I wouldn't say it was as good as Silent Hill 1-3, but I enjoyed it's great story and the exploration
Truer words have never been spoken. I feel like you just described me in a nutshell. Ironically, my friends are all male. I don't think I've ever had a female friend. Many acquaintances, but no female friends.
Personally though, I can't relate to it much. I can't relate to being a macho asshat much neither, but there are certain traits to that I've found beneficial. One of them namely, being able to fight - a primal survival mechanism I remember reluctantly having to learn. I think it's more accurate nowadays to consider violence a human thing, rather than a masculine thing, though obviously males've been the biggest propagators of violence in history. To take it further, I'm intrigued by violence in general - not to the point that I'll read up on serial killers, but I mean the visceral action of it. The adrenaline build up, the tension during, and the release afterward. Which kinda makes it weird that I don't like UFC. Probably 'cause I get my fill through fighting games. And beating myself up.
I love your comments. :)
Second of all, this blog intrigued me so much that I read up on the game on Wikipedia. Near the end it says, about your ending, "If Harry was a slacker during the game, the video shows Dahlia slapping Harry, taunting him and calling his novels "shit", saying that nobody reads them while he does nothing to fight back allowing Dahlia to abuse him. This ending is called "Wicked and Weak." " So I'm not going to comment on that (as I have not played the game and I do not know you), but it seems like if you at least tried to make a difference, you should get a better ending than that. Maybe you just used up all your strength, idk.
Beyond that I disagree with your assessment that Harry is not brave (again, this is based purely on the Wikipedia article). He has to evade ice monsters and take a leap of faith into a bottomless chasm, among other things. There's being brave, there's being fearless, and then there's being a survivor, which sounds more like Harry: doing what you must to survive, but not really striving to excel. The bare minimum, but that's a kind of bravery in itself.
Finally, just as a point of interest, apparently I am not very similar to you guys; I don't really think "Awkwardness in socializing with others, not truly connecting with "manly" dudes, and I prefer to stay at home too" describes me too well... although I do not get along well with others romantically, so there is that.
Unfortunately, my close group of friends does have some of those stereotypical alpha-male-leaning tendencies.. most frustrating to me is homophobia. I'm not gay, but that's only because of my love (and paradoxically, paralyzing fear) of boobies (yet I don't have the guts to ask a girl out). It's really quite infuriating.
Anyways that was incoherent and stuff but I need to do homework so I will now play super meat boy (you know it's true).
"but it seems like if you at least tried to make a difference, you should get a better ending than that."
I've gotten all the endings for the game. When I first played it; I played it conservatively. You have to understand that this game reads everything you do. For example, you can look at a women's breast if you want, and depending on that, your ending will vary.
"There's being brave, there's being fearless, and then there's being a survivor, which sounds more like Harry: doing what you must to survive, but not really striving to excel. The bare minimum, but that's a kind of bravery in itself. "
Well, the game forces you to do that to progress, but you need to play the game. The bottomless pit is actually one of the best parts of the game! It's not what you think.
You're right, I didn't put "effort" or picked certain choices in the game which is why I got that ending of the game, but nonetheless it was still fuckin' awesome! I very much enjoyed it.
"Finally, just as a point of interest, apparently I am not very similar to you guys; I don't really think "Awkwardness in socializing with others, not truly connecting with "manly" dudes, and I prefer to stay at home too" describes me too well... although I do not get along well with others romantically, so there is that."
I am the direct opposite of you. It really is strange. Romantically I never had a problem, but when it comes to friends; I never really had a lot. I know, it sounds strange, but that's how it always worked for me. Most of my friends are girls, and I've had successful relationships with them, but I never had a "guys night out", or many guy friends. You would think I would be bad in the romantic department, but I'm actually pretty good at it.
Does it give you any lenience? Say you accidentally oogle a boob, it would have to be a pattern of behavior like that to get you the ending related to that?
"Well, the game forces you to do that to progress, but you need to play the game. The bottomless pit is actually one of the best parts of the game! It's not what you think."
If I ever get a Wii, I will check it out.
You should give me lessons. :P Everytime I find that I am romantically interested in a girl, I am to scared that I will mess it up to try anything.
Actually, most of my acquaintances are female, but my three best friends - practically the only people I hang out with outside of school - are male. I guess I just found the guys who weren't total jerks -- although we still basically do the same stuff as most people, I guess, just with less douchiness. If that makes sense. We're competitive and constantly insult one another but it's all in good fun.
Yeah, it does have to be a pattern of some sort. If you stare a certain pic long enough, or stare at the numerous sexual imagery, then the game decides your ending.
Dude, the game is kind of two games in one. I left it out, but there is a therapist session in between each "level". How you answer the therapist questions determine your ending as well. I wrote about this about in the blog, but later took it out 'cause of spoilers.
I answered every question honestly. For example, some of the questions are: Have you ever cheated? Are you scarred of the outside world? Were you popular in high school? I answered each of those question as if I was the protagonist in the game.
Damn, I hope I didn't spoil anything for you. I left that and other things out on purpose.
I never had a male freind. I had male acquaintances, but no friends. I get along with women better. In fact, I went on a date about a week ago; it went alright, nothing happen, but I'm not afraid to ask a girl out. My longest relationship was of 3 years. Actually, I wrote a blog about it. Read it if you're interested: How I learn To Be A Better Man
Dude, PM when you get the ending! I would love to know what ending you get 'cause it can change your presumption of the game. You conclusion may not be the same as mine, but that's what makes the games so great!
Spoil anything? I read the entire Wikipedia article, including the plot synopsis. It's already spoiled XD
However, it really does sound like it would be a game you have to play to really experience, and it didn't make a ton of sense, so I think I could still enjoy it.
That's OK, I'll be your male friend! :D Not sure if it counts over the internet though. Have you ever been to a dtoid meetup to see any of these people you feel similar to irl?
I asked a girl out last week for the first time... over facebook... now I think she's avoiding me XD The downsides of dating! It has not been as much of a blow as I expected, fortunately.
I notice that video is labelled as the normal ending. What are the other endings?
There's a anime ending.
A Space ending.
A really dark, fucked up ending.
there's a.... I've said too much. :)
Take that video. Harry is in a lose/lose situation there. He takes her abuse, or tries to find outside help to resolve it (because it certainly sounds like she's done listening to him) then he's perceived as a weak and pathetic man who can't deal with his own problems. If he stands up for himself... well in that situation he has to physically defend himself... he's automatically charged with domestic violence and is known as the guy who beats up women.
I can't say it isn't complicated being a woman. I'm sure they are going through similar things what with having to be a modern woman who is empowered, but there's still the pressure to fill the roles they were expected to fill in the past. But I can say from the perspective of the the gender that used to be "on top", there is still very much the expectation to keep that mentality while still accepting equality. I'd like to think I'm good at the latter as I believe in gender equality, but trying to ignore the contradictions and keep both balanced is really tough.
Not to say I don't mind Macho stereotypes in my media. I mean, there was a time about... 7-ish years ago, where it was this constant push to portray men as... well maybe not feminine but certainly much less masculine. And people got sick of it, and we've been hit over the last few years with more macho media. What bothers me the most though about this recent stuff is how close to home it hits. Maybe my memories are tainted by youth, but I remember the "macho" heroes of the past as being pretty absurd. Nobody could possibly seriously act like that, could they? I hear dialog in Gears of War, or any modern military shooter, and I know scores of douchebags that are exactly like that. It's incredibly depressing, as these are the people who still at my age give me shit for being interested in gaming.
The fact that I get scared when I play a game, but can fearelessly smack a guy in his jaw (even though he was my friend and don't worry it wasn't really, really haard) completely boggles my mind.
P.S He was okay and we're still okay
Of course, this is obviously just my opinion and everyone has theirs. If anyone honestly wants to give this game a shot, I only recommend them to rent it because as I said, as a video game it's very poor and a game like this would have been better executed as a "choose your own adventure" novel.
Man that wife is such a cunt.
The issue of emasculation really does need to come up more often not just in modern day literature and media but in our everyday conversations between everyone. It's a whole side to the male psyche that gets stepped on every day and it's something I think every guy is somehow dealing with in one way or another.
And not just because I love Bukowski.
And not just because I love Bukowski.
I'm not sure how it is in your part of the world, but in Ireland, the media has finally begun to highlight the issue of suicide and depression in young men being far to prevalent. Interesting to see a game approach the topic.
I think a happy medium of the two is good.
By the way, I love your name!
I know this game, among all of the 3rd party studios that developed Silent Hill get a lot of flack. Especially, because it has a vastly different formula and is a remake (or re-imagining) of a game that many hold dear to them. But, if you want an honest opinion from a diehard fan, I actually prefer Shattered Memories over the original Silent Hill, seriously. I think this game did far better at letting the player relate to Harry and his situation with a modern, less cryptic approach, and it worked. I understand how many find Harry to be "brave" for running from the demons and setting out to find Cheryl, but you have to realize, he is RUNNING from the demons. The story deals with a lot of inner turmoil for Harry. Not once does he acknowledge that the demons even exist to others, he simply runs from them and pretends he never encountered them. The ice sections of the game resemble the memories he's choosing to deny and the sad truths that he will have to face. Though, this theory is ending dependent. In one of the endings, these are taken as illusions put in place by another equally important character.
I feel Shattered Memories does many things that other games have been afraid to do, play with the player, creating a connection between the player and the game. Climax studios took a big chance by not allowing Harry to attack in this game. That takes away a huge part of the Male identity/archetype, being able to fight for your cause. But, it wasn't too farfetched of an idea, if you've played any of the original Silent Hills (Excluding Origins & Homecoming), the fight mechanics were clunky and unreliable in regular situations, given the character you were controlling had no experience in combat, thus running was usually a safe alternative. My friend (male), whose typically a soft spoken and kind individual, who played it HATED the running sections of the game. He kept shouting "This is so stupid, I can't do anything!" over and over. He was extremely frustrated that there was no way to fight back, save for a temporary flare. So, I ended up eventually taking over for him on those parts. But, I think Climax studios had something, maybe unintentionally going for them with the running sections. Watching a male player, put in a helpless situation, where he is forced to run, instead of stand up for himself, will create a dissonance between what the male wants and is expected of him and how he is forced to give up those archetypical reactions to a situation in order to ultimately win.
Regardless of how many reviewers will bash the running sections or how it's not "Silent Hill", I think anyone who is a real Silent Hill fan will appreciate Climax studio's attention to detail, unique psychological profiling, and throwbacks/nods to previous Silent Hills.
P.S. I think Harry was given a more respectable death in this game than in Silent Hill 3.
P.S. I also can't wait for Catherine to be released looks like a good game that does a good job of portraying the goods and bads of relationships outside of the more the better philosophy.