Hollow Knight Silksong: The Sequel Every Metroidvania Fan Needs
Source: Nintendo
After years of anticipation, Hollow Knight: Silksong has finally arrived, and it delivers on every promise. As someone who spent countless hours exploring the intricate labyrinths of the original Hollow Knight, I can confidently say that Silksong not only meets expectations but raises the bar for the entire Metroidvania genre. This Hollow Knight Silksong review will cover everything from gameplay, story, and combat, to the memorable characters and world design that make the game an unforgettable experience.
Hornet Takes the Spotlight in Silksong
One of the first things you’ll notice in Silksong is that Hornet steps into the spotlight. Unlike the Knight from the original game, Hornet’s movement is faster, sharper, and more fluid, which immediately changes the rhythm of combat and exploration.
Playing as Hornet felt like a revelation. Her needle-based attacks and acrobatic abilities make combat more dynamic, and chaining wall jumps and dashes into fluid combos is immensely satisfying. I found myself experimenting constantly, trying out different attack patterns and learning enemy behaviours. Hornet’s agility not only makes battles feel more intense but also opens up creative ways to traverse the world, turning every encounter into a potential strategy puzzle.
A World Rich with Exploration in Hollow Knight Silksong
Silksong introduces a brand-new kingdom, with a stunning variety of environments. From lush, moss-covered villages to perilous caverns, every area is carefully crafted with hidden secrets and challenges. One of my favorite moments was discovering a hidden chamber beneath a crumbling temple, filled with glowing flora and a miniboss that tested my reflexes in ways I hadn’t experienced before.
The level design retains the tight, interconnected feel of the original game but adds verticality that makes exploration feel fresh. Climbing towers, swinging across gaps, and discovering secret paths creates a sense of discovery that never gets old. Every nook and cranny seems to reward curiosity, making it impossible to rush through the game.
Combat That Feels Rewarding
Combat in Silksong is faster and more strategic than in the original. Hornet’s ability to restore health through crafting rather than in-battle healing encourages careful planning and decision-making. Boss fights are intense, requiring quick reflexes, pattern recognition, and a deep understanding of her moveset.
Here is a great video from IGN showing some fantastic essential tips to help get those fingers warmed up!
I particularly enjoyed the fight against a giant spider boss in a shadowy cavern. The first few attempts were punishing, but each death taught me something new about timing, attack patterns, and Hornet’s potential. This loop of challenge, failure, and learning keeps every encounter thrilling. In my experience, it’s this balance of difficulty and satisfaction that makes Silksong one of the best combat-focused Metroidvanias I’ve ever played.
Storytelling That Unfolds With Every Step
Unlike many Metroidvania games (Except for perhaps Hollow Knight), Silksong uses environmental storytelling, NPC interactions, and optional quests to immerse players in its narrative. Every death and return to the hub area is an opportunity to deepen relationships with characters like Nyx and new NPCs in the kingdom.
The story itself is engaging without being forced. Hornet’s motivations and backstory unfold organically as players progress, with dialogue and lore updates providing context to the beautifully crafted world. I found myself genuinely invested in Hornet’s journey, caring about the allies I met along the way and the challenges she faced. The writing, combined with stunning visuals and hauntingly melodic music, creates an emotional resonance rare in action-platformers.
Bosses That Test Your Skills
Silksong introduces a variety of new bosses, each more inventive than the last. From towering beasts to agile hunters, every fight demands precise timing and clever use of Hornet’s abilities. I’ll admit, some battles pushed me to the brink of frustration but in the best way possible. Each victory felt earned, and the sense of accomplishment was immense.
The diversity of bosses also prevents repetition, keeping players constantly engaged. In addition to the challenge, boss encounters are cinematic and memorable, often accompanied by beautifully composed music that enhances the tension.
Why Hollow Knight Silksong Stands Out
Silksong succeeds because it balances challenge, exploration, and storytelling perfectly. The fast-paced combat, intricate level design, and evolving character relationships create a game that rewards curiosity, perseverance, and skill. Personally, it reminded me why I fell in love with Metroidvanias in the first place: the thrill of discovery, the satisfaction of mastering mechanics, and the emotional investment in a world that feels alive.
Whether you’re a returning fan of the original Hollow Knight or a newcomer curious about what makes this series legendary, Silksong delivers a complete, polished, and deeply rewarding experience. Every element from combat mechanics to environmental storytelling is carefully tuned to create a seamless, immersive adventure.
