Hollow Knight: Silksong

Hollow Knight: Silksong is the highly anticipated sequel to Team Cherry’s award-winning Metroidvania, Hollow Knight.

This time, players step into the role of Hornet, the agile protector of Hallownest, who finds herself captured and transported to the mysterious kingdom of Pharloom.



The Hollow Knight: Silksong game delivers the same tight platforming, atmospheric exploration, and challenging combat that defined its predecessor, while introducing fresh mechanics, an expanded world, and a dynamic new protagonist.

Originally intended as a DLC, Silksong grew into a full-scale sequel that preserves the essence of the original while aiming to stand as its own masterpiece.

Key Features

• Explore the vast, haunted kingdom of Pharloom with mossy caverns, gilded cities, and misted moors.
• Over 200 unique enemy types and more than 40 epic bosses to conquer.
• Acrobatic combat with Hornet’s needle and thread, allowing agile traversal and fast attacks.
• A refined healing mechanic enabling recovery on the move.
• Crafting system to build tools, traps, and weapons from enemy resources.
• Quest journal for better tracking of side missions and NPC requests.
• Steel Soul mode for those who want an ultimate test of skill.
• Stunning hand-drawn visuals and an orchestral score by Christopher Larkin.

User Interface

Silksong retains a minimalist, diegetic interface that never distracts from the immersion. Health masks, energy meters, and crafting resources are neatly displayed.



The quest journal is a welcome addition, making side objectives easier to follow. Menus are clean, with quick access to map, equipment, and upgrades.

The UI emphasizes exploration and discovery, presenting information when necessary without overwhelming the player.

Installation and Setup

The installation is straightforward via Steam, GOG, or other digital storefronts. The game requires minimal hard drive space compared to most modern titles, with around 8 GB. Setup includes standard graphics, audio, and controller options.

Full controller support is available, and most players will prefer gamepad play for precision platforming. Performance optimization ensures Silksong runs smoothly even on modest PC builds.

How to Play (Gameplay)

Players guide Hornet through interconnected environments filled with secrets, enemies, and platforming challenges. Progression follows the Metroidvania formula: unlock new abilities to access previously unreachable areas.



Combat demands precision, as enemies hit hard and bosses require learning attack patterns. Crafting expands gameplay by letting players create traps, gadgets, and tools to aid exploration and combat.

The journey is non-linear, rewarding exploration with upgrades, lore, and shortcuts. Mastery of movement and combat is key to survival in Pharloom.

FAQs

Is Silksong beginner-friendly?
Not entirely. The difficulty is steep, designed for players familiar with Hollow Knight. Newcomers may struggle but will adapt with persistence.

How long does it take to finish?
A standard playthrough lasts 30–40 hours, with completionists spending 60+ hours.

Does it continue the story of Hollow Knight?
Yes, though the narrative is delivered subtly through NPC dialogue and environmental storytelling. Knowledge of the first game enriches the experience but isn’t mandatory.

Is the soundtrack as good as the original?
Yes, Christopher Larkin’s score is breathtaking, blending melancholy themes with powerful boss tracks.

Will there be DLC?
Nothing confirmed yet, though Team Cherry has hinted at post-launch support similar to Hollow Knight.



Alternatives

Dead Cells – A faster, roguelite take on combat and exploration.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps – A visually stunning Metroidvania with fluid platforming.

Blasphemous II – Darker tone with brutal combat and religious iconography.

Salt and Sanctuary – A 2D Souls-like with punishing mechanics.

Metroid Dread – The classic Metroidvania franchise brought to modern systems.

Pricing

Expected retail price is around $20–30 USD, making it highly affordable considering its scale and quality.

System Requirements

Minimum:

• Requires a 64-bit processor and OS
• OS: Windows 10 version 21H1 (build 19043) or newer
• Processor: Intel Core i3-3240 / AMD FX-4300
• Memory: 4 GB RAM
• Graphics: GeForce GTX 560 Ti (1GB) / Radeon HD 7750 (1GB)
• DirectX: Version 10
• Storage: 8 GB available space

Recommended:

• Requires a 64-bit processor and OS
• OS: Windows 11
• Processor: Intel Core i5-3470
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: GeForce GTX 1050 (2GB) / Radeon R9 380 (2GB)
• DirectX: Version 10
• Storage: 8 GB available space

PROS

• Dynamic, acrobatic combat system
• Rich and atmospheric environments
• Over 200 enemy types and 40+ bosses
• Rewarding exploration with Metroidvania depth
• Superb soundtrack and sound design
• Improved quest-tracking journal
• Affordable price point for its scope

CONS

• Difficulty curve is punishing
• Pacing issues in later areas
• Some design choices feel frustrating
• Limited innovation over the first game
• Occasional backtracking fatigue
• Enemy density can feel overwhelming
• Not ideal for complete newcomers

Conclusion

Hollow Knight: Silksong builds upon the foundation of its predecessor with a faster, more acrobatic combat system, a vast kingdom to explore, and a haunting orchestral soundtrack.

While its difficulty and pacing may deter some players, dedicated fans will find a rich, immersive adventure that expands Hollow Knight’s legacy. For the price and content offered, Silksong is one of the most ambitious indie sequels in years. A must-play for anyone seeking a challenging and rewarding Metroidvania experience.