Nothing could have prepared me for the relentless challenge that is Hollow Knight: Silksong. Admittedly, my oversight in skipping the original Hollow Knight may have contributed to my current predicament. I had anticipated ample time to explore the first installment before the sequel’s release, but here I am, having invested over 25 hours into a game that feels akin to a Sisyphean struggle.
What is it? A 2D action game characterized by demanding combat and intricate platforming.
Release date: September 4, 2025
Price: .99
Developer: Team Cherry
Publisher: Team Cherry
Reviewed on: RTX 5090, Intel Core i9 12900K, 32GB RAM
Multiplayer: Yes
Steam Deck: Verified
Link: <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/123456/HollowKnightSilksong/”>Steam
In stark contrast to the unyielding grip of Elden Ring, where players gradually earn the right to manipulate their gameplay, Silksong offers a different experience. Here, weapon upgrades promise a future where you can inflict as much damage as you have endured since the game’s onset. Despite the bruises and frustrations, I find myself compelled to admit that the pain was worth it. Team Cherry has crafted a remarkable journey that feels like a quest to reach your car without your keys, and it is nothing short of phenomenal, immersing you in the haunting beauty of Pharloom.
Harmony
Although the term “soulslike” may not fully encapsulate the essence of Silksong, it does hold some relevance. While the combat mechanics diverge from the genre’s norms, the world-building of Pharloom resonates with the intricate designs found in Dark Souls. The interconnectedness of the environment, steeped in a tragic history, invites exploration. A glance at the map reveals a line stretching from the golden citadel to the stagnant, maggot-infested pools of Bilewater, illustrating the origins of decay.
Every shortcut and hidden area enriches the narrative, providing context to the horrors faced throughout the game. A pristine dining room in the citadel’s upper chambers conceals a kitchen shrouded in dust and decay, while a secret room below houses the tangled remains of a centipede pontiff. The game is rife with details that keep the player engaged, driving curiosity to uncover more about Pharloom’s mysteries.
Amidst the darkness, there are glimmers of hope, such as the towns you can assist in rebuilding and the charming bugs you encounter. I found myself running errands for a group of bugs residing in giant bells, who rewarded me with one of my own. I will defend the character of Sherma and his soothing lullaby against any detractors.
Hornet, the protagonist, and the quirky characters she meets serve as refreshing contrasts to the game’s otherwise gloomy atmosphere. From a caravan of nomadic fleas sporting French mustaches to a bartender beetle and a ladybug carny charging for target practice, the eclectic cast provides levity during moments of frustration. Hornet’s evolution from a cold-blooded warrior to an empathetic survivor adds depth to the narrative, making interactions with the various bugs all the more engaging.
The thrill of controlling Hornet elevates Silksong as a standout action game. The dance of dodging and attacking evolves into a complex choreography as new moves are acquired. Initially, I was merely poking at enemies, but by the end, I was unleashing spike traps and silk missiles while deftly maneuvering through foes. The satisfaction derived from mastering these mechanics is a rewarding pursuit, even if the challenge remains steep.
Stubborn
While much of Silksong maintains a fair difficulty level, certain sections can be punishing, particularly when repeated attempts at bosses are required. Early on, one particularly vexing segment forces players to navigate past rabid worms and sniper-wielding flies just to face the boss again. The game occasionally struggles to balance effort and reward, presenting challenges that feel excessive.
For instance, while some games may require finding a code to unlock a safe, Silksong demands players to battle through waves of enemies to obtain a key that leads to even more foes. The experience can feel relentless, especially when checkpoints come at a cost, emphasizing the disparity within Pharloom’s world. The design choice to penalize players for dying adds a layer of tension, as health can quickly diminish from even minor mistakes.
Despite its beautifully crafted environments, not every moment feels rewarding. The initial hours of Silksong require a commitment to the belief that the overall experience will justify the struggle. Yet, I can confidently say that the payoff is indeed worth it. There were moments of frustration that made me question Team Cherry’s design choices, but ultimately, Silksong exceeded my expectations. It radiates a level of creativity and precision that is rare in the gaming landscape.
While the brutal difficulty may deter some, it should not overshadow the brilliance of the game. Silksong will challenge you, push you to your limits, and then reward you with glimpses of a hauntingly beautiful world. In those moments of triumph, the pain fades, and the desire to explore the unknown remains, compelling you to endure whatever challenges lie ahead.
