Smog

From Silent Hill Wiki

Smog

A Smog attacking

Other Names

None

Debut

Silent Hill: Homecoming

Other Appearances

None

Health

Locations

Almost everywhere

Weapons

None

Method of Attack

Shoots black gas at the player

The Smog is a monster in Silent Hill: Homecoming. It appears as a man with an opened torso and his head reared far back, with glowing, inflamed lungs and other glowing orange tumors sprouting on its body and especially its throat, as well as glowing orange eyes. It is a tall, spindly creature with an opposable ribcage, which opens vertically and can be used to attack. This monster is similar to both the "Lying Figure" and "Straight-Jacket," but instead of spraying the player with acid, it spews a noxious black gas. This gas continuously leaks from their mouths, and flecks of burning embers are also present in it.

Character

Smogs are difficult to deal with due to their danger at both long and short range and their high amount of stamina. They attack by spewing their black, gaseous breath at Alex Shepherd, in order to both deal damage and attempt to stun him. At close range, they can attack by swatting him with their opening rib cages. The easiest way to deal with a Smog is to shoot when their lungs are exposed, typically before they're about to exhale their noxious breath. As a whole, the Smog are best avoided. If this simply isn't possible, the maximum amount of distance that can be gained from one and a pistol are the safest route.

Symbolism

The black gaseous attacks symbolize the Black Lung disease that would've been common in the coal mines that figure prominently in the game, or of coal fires that would have also been a hazard. It is also a symbol of the smothering guilt that Alex suffers. It may also represent the repressed burning anger contained in Alex's body that comes out as "fire," instead of his usual violent behavior.

Trivia

The Smog's introductory appearance, its manner of movements, and overall design are greatly inspired by the Armless Man seen in Silent Hill.
Defeating one Smog in the Xbox 360 version unlocks the Achievement Clear The Air.