An Uncanny Reality

Summary by Krater

An analysis of the full-motion video and pre-rendered cutscenes in Silent Hill 2, examining how the game uses imperfect graphics and uncanny character models to evoke dread and mirror the protagonist's psychological state.

From the video

Answers: How does Silent Hill 2 use full-motion video and uncanny character models to evoke fear and dread?

• Full-motion video in video games
• Silent Hill 2 graphics and aesthetics
• The Uncanny Valley in video game character design
• Devotion horror game history and controversy

What it concludes

• Silent Hill 2's pre-rendered FMVs succeed by straddling the line between realistic human emotion and uncanny imperfection.
• The game uses mirrors and shifting visual perspectives in its cutscenes to reflect the protagonist's fracturing reality and psychological trauma.
• Devotion uses real-life television performance aesthetics and apartment environments to amplify its horror through familiar yet distorted imagery.