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The gaming world has seen the rise of subgenres so influential they defy simple categorization, born from titans like Metroid, Castlevania, and the Souls series. In late 2014, Australian indie developer Team Cherry introduced Hollow Knight to the world, describing it as a “2D hand-drawn action-adventure game…” Does that sound familiar? It should, because it echoes the core elements of countless Metroidvania titles available today. So, what sets Hollow Knight apart from the likes of Salt & Sanctuary, Axiom Verge, Ori and The Blind Forest, and Rogue Legacy? The answer lies not in radical innovation, but in masterful execution. Hollow Knight excels by meticulously crafting a world that is both beautiful and brutal, delivering a captivating experience that lingers long after the final blow is struck.

Hollow Knight gameplay

A World Lost to Whispers

“No mind to think, no will to break, no voice to cry suffering…” This chilling inscription sets the stage for the decaying kingdom of Hallownest. Once vibrant, it now lies in ruins, its depths infested with bizarre creatures. Into this desolate world comes a silent, yet determined, figure, venturing into the deepest recesses of Hallownest to lift the curse that grips the land.

The adventure in Hollow Knight is as enigmatic as its premise. The narrative unfolds through cryptic messages and fragmented conversations, drawing players deeper into the mysteries of Hallownest. The journey is fraught with peril, yet our silent protagonist is not alone. Allies emerge from unexpected corners, each driven by their own motivations: a brash knight with a grandiose self-image, loyal companions seeking purpose, and deceitful figures who reveal their true nature once their goals are met.

Hollow Knight doesn’t shy away from tugging at the heartstrings. Moments of levity and humor are quickly extinguished by a melancholic undercurrent, creating a poignant contrast that stays with the player. Not every story thread plays with emotions so directly; some offer a glimmer of hope depending on the player’s choices. However, the game frequently subverts expectations, delivering unexpected twists and swift deaths that reinforce the unforgiving nature of Hallownest.

Exploring Hallownest

A Visual and Auditory Masterpiece

The haunting atmosphere of Hollow Knight is amplified by its captivating art style. Over 120 hand-drawn characters and diverse locations are rendered in meticulous detail, their grotesque beauty reflecting their personalities and behaviors. The environments are not merely aesthetically pleasing; they dynamically convey the mood and pacing of the game. From the lush, layered Greenpath to the opulent yet decaying City of Tears and the claustrophobic Deepnest, each area possesses a distinct visual identity.

The soundtrack further enhances the immersive experience. Melancholic melodies intertwine with moments of intensity and despair, urging players onward. Each new area is heralded by a distinct soundscape, from the ominous rumbles in the depths to the gentle humming of the mapmaker. Even the visceral sounds of combat contribute to the overall atmosphere.

Eternal Darkness

Echoes of Metroidvania and Souls

As a Metroidvania title, Hollow Knight encourages exploration and allows players to tackle areas in a non-linear fashion. Some areas encountered early on are blocked by obstacles requiring abilities acquired later. This clever design ensures that backtracking never feels tedious. Returning to familiar areas often reveals new paths and secrets, leading to upgrades, helpful NPCs, or even entirely new sub-areas.

The game’s progression system borrows heavily from the Souls series. Players must locate Cornifer to purchase maps, following his scattered journal pages to pinpoint his location. These maps can only be updated at benches, which also serve as save points, much like bonfires in Dark Souls. While this system may seem complex, Hollow Knight provides ample visual cues to guide players. Pins mark the location of benches, NPCs, and dream trees (essential for accessing a hidden “meta-game”). Attentive players will also notice subtle environmental hints, such as signs pointing towards new areas or subtle shifts in the aesthetic that foreshadow the next zone.

The interconnectedness of Hallownest is another highlight. Seemingly inactive elevators lead to later-game areas, shortcuts are cleverly hidden, and locked doors tease the promise of further exploration. Hollow Knight masterfully guides players through its labyrinthine world, transforming initial uncertainty into confident navigation. While most areas are well-designed, some, like the Ancient Basin, suffer from a lack of convenient fast travel points, forcing players to backtrack extensively.

Combating Creatures

Nail and Charm: Combat and Customization

Combat in Hollow Knight is focused on impactful strikes rather than flashy combos. Starting with a basic nail attack and jump, players gradually unlock new moves like double jumping, dashing, and the energy-based Vengeful Spirit. Charms, special items that grant various effects, add depth to combat and character customization. These range from increasing Geo collection and damage output to providing defensive boosts and altering special attacks. The charm system allows players to tailor their playstyle, creating diverse builds for different challenges.

The game’s difficulty is undeniable. Instead of a traditional health bar, players have a limited number of masks representing health points. Even seemingly weak enemies can quickly deplete these masks, sending players back to the nearest bench to retrieve lost Geo. Bosses, while lacking the multi-phase surprises of Dark Souls, offer demanding yet rewarding encounters. Hollow Knight is challenging but rarely frustrating, thanks to its fluid level design, engaging boss fights, and manageable resource management.

Hollow Knight Exploration

A Journey Worth Taking

With over 20 hours of gameplay and only 60% completion, Hollow Knight offers a wealth of content to discover. Multiple endings, hidden paths, and a sprawling world beckon players to delve deeper into its secrets. The journey is challenging, but the rewards are plentiful. Hollow Knight is a testament to the power of meticulous design and masterful execution, delivering an unforgettable experience that resonates long after the credits roll.