Verdict
Team Cherry has achieved a remarkable feat, crafting a sequel that not only meets but transcends the monumental expectations set by its predecessor. Hollow Knight Silksong emerges as a true masterpiece, not merely by expanding on its predecessor’s foundation, but by maintaining its essence while exploring new heights. The game’s expansive world invites players to embrace its challenges, pushing them to rise to the occasion.
The seven-year wait for Hollow Knight Silksong has been a journey marked by anticipation and speculation. Each Nintendo Direct and Gamescom ONL event only heightened the excitement, with fans eagerly asking, “SKONG TODAY?” The long silence from Team Cherry has only amplified the fervor surrounding the game. Now, as it finally arrives, it carries with it a bittersweet sense of loss, as the fervent anticipation has reshaped the very identity of Hollow Knight itself.
In the realm of Metroidvania games, sequels often grapple with the challenge of justifying their existence. While titles like Ori and the Will of the Wisps and Blasphemous 2 have introduced enhancements to their gameplay, they often tread familiar ground. Team Cherry, however, has taken a bold approach, flipping the traditional Metroidvania formula on its head. Instead of delving deeper underground, Hornet’s journey in Silksong emphasizes vertical exploration, challenging players to navigate a world that defies gravity.
In Pharloom, the environment itself becomes a character, teaching players that gravity is not merely an obstacle but a pathway to progress. Early encounters, such as a leap of faith in Moss Grotto, lead players back to familiar grounds, while later missteps can plunge them into perilous regions like Bilewater. Even stripped of objectives, the core experience of climbing a tower resonates throughout the game.
Silksong’s level design is a testament to Team Cherry’s creativity, as it weaves together a cohesive world that surpasses the original Hallownest. The lower depths serve as a haunting reminder of the past, while the Citadel above stands as a monument to the developers’ storytelling prowess. The juxtaposition of beauty and decay within the Citadel reflects a deeper narrative, where the grandeur of the structure belies the exploitation that underpins its existence.
Despite its larger map, Pharloom presents challenges in navigation, particularly with its limited fast travel points. The thrill of discovering new abilities can quickly turn into anxiety as players grapple with the multitude of paths left unexplored. This feeling is particularly pronounced in the latter half of the game, where the sheer scale of the world can overwhelm even the most seasoned players.
Combat encounters in Silksong are intricately tied to the world design, with enemies serving multiple purposes beyond mere obstacles. The thoughtful placement of foes encourages players to adapt their strategies, while the introduction of new mechanics enhances the depth of combat. The game’s bosses, characterized by their limited yet impactful movesets, offer a satisfying challenge that evolves throughout the encounter.
Animation and movement in Silksong have received meticulous attention, showcasing Hornet’s dynamic agility. Her interactions with the world are rich with detail, from the fluttering draperies to the bustling ant processions. These elements contribute to a tactile experience that enhances immersion, allowing players to feel a connection to the environment.
The narrative of Silksong is more accessible than its predecessor, weaving a tale that intertwines the lives of its characters with the world around them. While some side quests may feel like mere chores, others, like the Great Taste of Pharloom, offer engaging challenges that harken back to memorable moments from Hollow Knight. The game balances its narrative with moments of whimsy and intrigue, showcasing Team Cherry’s creativity.
Silksong embraces the conventions of the genre while playfully subverting expectations. The inclusion of unexpected elements, such as the swinging axe trap, serves as a reminder of the world’s unpredictability. The game’s conclusion builds upon Hollow Knight’s legacy, revealing additional layers of storytelling that encourage players to delve deeper.
In the end, Silksong stands as a pinnacle of the Metroidvania genre. Its ambitious design and masterful integration of gameplay, narrative, and environment elevate it beyond its predecessor and redefine what players can expect from future titles. As players explore its vast world, they are invited to savor the experience, uncovering secrets and shortcuts that enrich their journey. With Hollow Knight setting the gold standard, Silksong boldly charts the course for what lies ahead in the realm of gaming.
