Hanged Scratchers, also called Sewer Demons or Sewer Creatures, are creatures that dwell in the sewers of Silent Hill, appearing in the first game.
Appearance[]
They resemble green reptilian creatures, although their heads are white. Their claws make a distinctive clicking noise when they walk on hard surfaces that is easily recognized. Their limbs are extremely long and thin, similar to an insect's.
Character[]
They are known to attack from the ceiling, or from below. Hanged Scratchers attack in groups of two or three and this is when they are most dangerous, as they will surround their prey, making it very difficult for Harry to evade them. This happens quite often, so caution is advised when dealing with them.
Due to the excessive darkness within the sewers and the fact that Harry Mason's radio doesn't work underground, this often results in panic and surprise in the player when they are confronted. On the ground they can move quite swiftly, especially on higher difficulties, and also apply reach and endurance. They also prove quite diligent in pursuing prey once they've caught sight of it. It is best to use the hammer or a firearm on them.
Three Hanged Scratchers surrounding Harry after he has received the key.
At one point during Harry's first visit to the sewers, the player is lured towards a key, which is needed to progress; however, upon retrieving it, Harry will be ambushed by three of these creatures, although defeating them is optional. During this section of traversing the sewers, the Hanged Scratchers are quicker than normal.
Symbolism[]
Hanged Scratchers may represent the image of a composite of many insect specimens, due to Alessa Gillespie's fear of insects, the only exceptions being butterflies and moths. Crickets or locusts have the most prevalent resemblance to the Scratchers.
The fact that they appear and move very reptillian-esque in nature could be akin to dragons, alluding to Alessa's love for fairytales.
They could also represent the Order's penchant for abducting young girls, as one member would later attempt with Alessa's second reincarnation. This could explain their persistence when pursuing Harry and how, when they attack, they seem to screech "Let go of me!".[1]
Gallery[]
