If I had to choose a favorite game, it would for sure be this one. Although I admit the optimization isn't the greatest, I believe this is what could be described as a perfect game.
The biggest thing I adore about the Silent Hill 2 Remake is the use of symbolism and foreshadowing. Once you fully get a grasp on the plot after completing the game, going back for multiple playthroughs allows you to truly see how much of the game's main theme is shown through even the smallest of details. I've done over 8 full playthroughs, all of which I've noticed something new. The amount of large and underlying themes constantly shown throughout the game is outstanding, some things I haven't been able to pick up on without seeing them multiple times, slowly piecing together more details over time. I believe this is an example of a perfect story with just the right amount of winks and nudges to hint at the bigger picture until it's thrown right at you. If you haven't looked more into the game's secrets and subtle hints, I strongly suggest looking into it, it's fascinating. Absolutely stunned me how deep everything goes. I don't believe a story has ever made me feel so in love with it as this one has.
Not only is the story portrayed in the right way, but the visual design is gorgeous. The scenery, the fog, the lighting, it all ties together to create the full picture of Silent Hill. Some of the environment can be pretty, such as the opening forest and graveyard, which is a sharp contrast to the gritty and disgusting environment that is the alternate world Brookhaven Hospital and Toluca Prison. My personal favorite example of change in environment is how the Lakeview Hotel changes over time, as you continue to explore the hotel becomes more abandoned and worn down, which I didn't even notice until a few playthroughs in. It's so subtle yet so perfect, watching the last of James' world fall apart from what he believed it to be. I have taken 181 screenshots in the total time I've played this game, all of which I love. Truly gorgeous and a beautiful experience all the way through.
On top of everything, if there's anything that ties the game together most, it's Akira Yamaoka's music. Akira has completely mastered the art of horror game music and ambience. His work on all the Silent Hill games and more is so outstanding. My personal favorites are for sure SH2, SH3, SH4, and of course SH2R. The sheer amount of emotion and fear put into the soundtrack of this game will always have a certain place in my heart. The ending soundtracks are even more beautiful. My first ending, hearing Promise (Pragma Version) for the first time was so emotional and really tied the ending together for me. The cutscene music also hits crazy hard, the best for me being Promise of the Forgotten (aka Promise Reprise) and Theme of Laura (Repetition). Those tied the cutscenes together so well, it was the perfect bows on the boxes. The background ambience when exploring also fits so well. Not to mention genuine horror ambience never gets enough appreciation, the kind that makes you grit your teeth and makes you afraid. Akira has mastered that part of the soundtrack fully. If there's anyone that's fit to tie Silent Hill together, it's Akira Yamaoka.
In general, SH2R is the best example of a great game. I haven't enjoyed a game to this extent in a while, I love it so much. Very VERY strongly recommend! Just make sure your PC can actually run it beforehand lol.