In Silent Hill 2 Remake, there aren't many weapons, but you'll need them if you want to survive all the horrors this creepy town throws at you. Weapons like the handgun, shotgun, and hunting rifle are technically optional and can be missed: if you progress too far, you might not be able to go back to get them. That's why we've prepared this guide for you.
Wooden Plank is the first melee weapon you will unlock in Silent Hill 2 Remake. This basic weapon can be used to attack enemies, break glass, and smash weak walls. Later, you will replace the wooden plank with a pipe — both weapons are earned automatically as you progress.
The pipe is a permanent replacement for the wooden plank — it is a more powerful melee weapon. It works the same way as the wooden plank. When not aiming, James will automatically attack with this melee weapon.
Handgun is the first firearm you will unlock in the game. It can only be found after you make your way through a horde of enemies in the Apartments.
The handgun holds 10 rounds in the magazine. Early in the game, you typically find 2-3 rounds per box. Later, as the game progresses, you will find 6-8 rounds per box. At this stage, use the handgun as a last resort weapon and conserve ammo. It will be very useful for taking down mannequins or defeating enemies when they appear in groups.
A powerful shotgun can take down enemies like nurses with a single shot. It can be found later in the Brookhaven Hospital.
Technically, the shotgun is an optional weapon, but you will surely find it. No puzzles are required to obtain the shotgun, and it can be taken at any time before you enter the Otherworld Hospital.
The most powerful firearm in Silent Hill 2 is the hunting rifle — a precise single-shot weapon with very limited ammo and a long reload time between shots. You'll acquire this weapon in the third main area of the game.
Once you've obtained the key, return to the armory to get this powerful long-range weapon. The rifle is very accurate but cumbersome — it can take down some enemies with a single shot, but ammo for it is scarce.
The best melee weapon can be the chainsaw. This handheld superweapon will destroy enemies on your second playthrough — it is only available in New Game+.
The chainsaw is the most powerful melee weapon, making replaying significantly easier. If you want to replay without using firearms, the chainsaw will make your playthrough smoother.