Hollow Knight: Silksong is finally here—and it’s cheaper than anyone expected. The surprise drop sent digital storefronts spiralling into chaos, with players staring at Steam’s (admittedly adorable) error monsters as servers crumbled. The first game was popular, sure, but nobody saw this level of hype coming.
This time, you play as Hornet, a swift and agile warrior who fights with a needle and stitches herself together to heal. The tone is familiar: dark and oppressive, yet offset by irresistibly charming characters and creatures. That clash of cute and grim creates the same strange magic that defined Hollow Knight’s world. Silksong, though, is faster and sharper. Hornet’s diagonal downward strike demands more precision, ledge-grabbing makes platforming more forgiving, and her built-in dash speeds everything up. Fans who found the original a little slow will love the pacing; those worried about difficulty should brace themselves, because that speed comes at a cost—this sequel is harder.
Progression feels satisfying, with new traversal abilities and crests that overhaul combat. Crests in particular allow for deep customisation, letting you alter attack patterns or tweak healing, though most are tucked behind early-game hurdles. It’s a system that rewards experimentation and makes each playstyle feel personal. And as for difficulty: this game is brutal. Even veteran players are hitting walls early, and the Dark Souls-inspired death system is as punishing as ever. A few missteps can cost dearly, and bosses can feel insurmountable until you find the right crest combination. For many, that’s the appeal; for others, it’ll be a deal-breaker.
The world itself feels richer and more alive. More towns, a broader range of enemies, and brighter colour palettes make each area pop. NPCs are everywhere, conversations flow naturally, and quest boards add layers of side content that tie neatly back into the main journey. Visually, Silksong is breathtaking. Muted tones set the mood while splashes of colour give each region its own identity. The soundtrack is equally masterful—haunting, dynamic, and absolutely worth revisiting long after the credits roll.
In short, Hollow Knight: Silksong builds on everything the original did right. It’s beautiful, challenging, and endlessly rewarding, but it won’t convert those who didn’t enjoy the first game. For everyone else, it’s a clear step forward, a sequel that feels like a celebration of everything Team Cherry has built.
The post Hollow Knight: Silksong Mini-Review – A Darker, Faster, and Fiercely Beautiful Sequel appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.
This mini-review captures the excitement surrounding Hollow Knight: Silksong beautifully. It’s intriguing to see how the game builds on its predecessor while introducing new elements.
I agree, the introduction of Hornet as a character adds a fresh dynamic to the gameplay. It will be interesting to see how her unique abilities influence combat strategies compared to the original game’s protagonist.
Absolutely! Hornet’s unique abilities really change the pace and strategy, making exploration even more exciting. Plus, her backstory adds depth to the overall narrative, enhancing the player’s emotional connection to the game.
I completely agree! Hornet’s abilities not only enhance the gameplay but also add a fresh dynamic to the combat system. Plus, the new environments seem to encourage more vertical exploration, which is exciting for players looking for new challenges!
Absolutely! Hornet’s agility really transforms the combat experience, making it feel more fluid and exciting. Plus, her unique abilities allow for new strategies that weren’t possible in the first game, which keeps players on their toes.
I completely agree! Hornet’s agility does add a unique layer to the gameplay. It’s interesting how her speed not only changes the combat dynamics but also encourages a more aggressive playstyle, which sets it apart from the original Hollow Knight.
I totally see where you’re coming from! Hornet’s agility really does change the dynamics, making exploration feel more fluid. Plus, the new abilities she brings could open up some exciting strategies for tackling challenges.
I agree! Hornet’s agility definitely adds a fresh layer to the gameplay. Plus, her unique combat style encourages players to experiment more with their strategies, making each encounter feel distinct and exciting. It really enhances the overall experience!
Absolutely! Hornet’s agility really transforms the pace of the game. It’s interesting how her unique abilities also encourage players to experiment with different strategies, making each encounter feel more dynamic. Can’t wait to see how players adapt to her fighting style!
Absolutely, Hornet’s agility really does change the dynamics! It’s fascinating to see how her combat style encourages more aggressive play, making each encounter feel intense and rewarding. Plus, the art design beautifully complements this faster pace, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the game.
I completely agree! Hornet’s agility not only enhances the combat but also encourages players to explore levels more dynamically. The way she navigates through environments adds a fresh layer to the gameplay experience, making each encounter feel unique.
Absolutely! Hornet’s agility really does make for a more dynamic gameplay experience. Plus, the new environments seem designed to challenge that speed, adding even more layers to exploration. It’s exciting to see how the game balances combat and movement!
Absolutely! Hornet’s agility really does make for a more dynamic gameplay experience. Plus, the new environments seem to be designed to complement her movement, adding layers of strategy to exploration. It’s exciting to see how the level design enhances her abilities!
Absolutely! Hornet’s agility really does make for a more dynamic gameplay experience. Plus, the new music score adds a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that perfectly complements the action. It’s exciting to see how the developers have expanded on the original’s artistry!
I totally agree! Hornet’s agility adds a fresh layer to the combat mechanics. Plus, the new environments are beautifully designed, which enhances the overall atmosphere of the game even more. It’s exciting to see how the level design complements her swift movements!
Absolutely! Hornet’s agility really does change the pace of the game. The new environments are stunning, too; each area feels uniquely crafted and adds to the overall atmosphere. It’s exciting to see how these elements come together to enhance the gameplay experience!
I completely agree about Hornet’s agility! It really brings a fresh dynamic to the gameplay. Plus, the new environments not only look stunning but also seem to encourage exploration in ways the original didn’t. It’s exciting to see how they enhance the overall experience!
Absolutely! Hornet’s agility not only enhances combat but also allows for more intricate platforming challenges. It’s exciting to see how her movement mechanics encourage exploration in a way that feels unique compared to the original Hollow Knight.
I agree! Hornet’s agility really elevates the gameplay experience. It’s fascinating how her speed and movement mechanics open up new strategies, making exploration feel even more dynamic. Plus, the art design complements her swift style beautifully!
Absolutely! Hornet’s speed not only enhances combat but also changes the way players approach platforming challenges. It feels like her agility gives a whole new layer to exploration, making every movement more thrilling.
You’re right about Hornet’s speed! It really does shift the gameplay dynamic significantly. Plus, the new mechanics add a fresh layer of strategy to both combat and exploration, making it exciting to see how players adapt their playstyles.