Getting Started in Hollow Knight: Silksong — Tips and Tricks
After what feels like an eternity of anticipation and theories that could fill a library, Hollow Knight: Silksong has finally graced the world. Whether a seasoned knight from the first game or a curious rookie drawn by the hype, there are some gems of wisdom to absorb before diving headfirst into its tricky mechanics.
- Getting Started in Hollow Knight: Silksong — Tips and Tricks
- Snatch Up Your Map, Quill, and Compass ASAP
- Boss Battles: Patience is Key
- Learn to Master Aerial Combos and the Pogo
- Listen for Those Sweet Audio Clues
- Protect Those Pearls!
- Walls Always Hide Secrets
- Healing Mid-Flight: A Game-Changing Mechanic
- Pay Attention to Dialogues and the Vertical Exploration
Let’s just say Silksong’s development journey could make for a gripping soap opera. Initially pitched as a mere DLC for the original Hollow Knight, it evolved into a fully-fledged sequel bursting with ambition and fresh ideas. This metamorphosis took years, a twisty road filled with every emotion from anticipation to hair-pulling frustration. The dark and enchanting universe crafted by Team Cherry has reopened its doors, this time featuring Hornet as the dazzling lead. A little faster, a tad more technical, and boasting groundbreaking mechanics, she is set to revolutionize the Metroidvania experience.
Here are some key points, tips, and tricks to hit the ground running.
Snatch Up Your Map, Quill, and Compass ASAP
As with any good Metroidvania, exploration is the heart of the journey. But in Silksong, moving forward is tied closely to the services of Shakra, the new version of Cornifer from the previous chapter. It’s here that one can buy maps, quills, and a compass—three essential items to avoid stumbling around like a headless chicken. Sure, they cost some pearls, but think of them as investments in sanity. A well-planned exploration means fewer “lost in the maze” moments in the mystical land of Pharloom.
Boss Battles: Patience is Key
When facing the titans of Pharloom, rushing in is a recipe for a quick game over. The winning strategy? Observation! Keep an eye out for attack patterns, identify those golden opportunities, and just land one or two reliable hits before darting away like a startled rabbit. Some battles can feel like they last forever, but good news: patience is a virtue, and it pays off. Once the rhythm is comprehended, playing aggressively can lead to staggering bosses and open windows for counterattacks.
Learn to Master Aerial Combos and the Pogo
Hornet zips about with the agility of a caffeinated squirrel compared to the Knight. Her aerial attacks combined with the diagonal diving kick form the heart of her arsenal. This stylish move is vital for bouncing on enemies or reaching those high-up platforms that initially seem like a cruel joke. Timing and precision are critical—practice on less intimidating foes or the bouncy plant buttons for mastering this skill. It’s tough and might induce some delightful frustration, but trust that these abilities will become invaluable when facing the fiercest threats and discovering premium secrets.
Listen for Those Sweet Audio Clues
Exploring Pharloom demands more than just quick reflexes; it requires a certain level of auditory attention. The Sprites (the new equivalent of the Larvae from the first installment) and mask fragments needed to boost Hornet’s vitality make their presence known through distinct sounds before they appear on screen. If ears are tuned to the environment (while ignoring podcasts or videos—seriously, focus!), valuable rewards won’t be missed.
Protect Those Pearls!
Death is an old friend that loves to hang out in Silksong. Every time Hornet bites the dust, she loses her precious silk and pearls—coins that can buy just about anything cool. If a demise occurs before retrieving those mislaid treasures, it’s curtains; they vanish for good. To diminish the damage, some merchants can convert pearls into permanent trinkets that won’t disappear upon death. This safety net is essential because, let’s be honest, death will happen. A lot.
Walls Always Hide Secrets
The beloved tradition of destructible walls, cherished by many games of this ilk, returns with a vengeance. A simple tap of the needle can unveil treasures, passages to uncharted territories, or strategic shortcuts. Some walls may have visual cues, while others may remain as sneaky as a cat with a laser pointer. The rule of thumb? Go ahead and thump suspicious walls! Many discoveries hinge on this delightful yet messy trial-and-error method.
Healing Mid-Flight: A Game-Changing Mechanic
Hornet’s healing system departs from the Focus style of the original. Here, the silk gauge must be full to restore health, but the brilliant twist is that this can happen mid-air, allowing for a dynamic healing approach without needing to land in awkward situations. This mechanic makes battles faster-paced and fits seamlessly with Hornet’s acrobatic skills, potentially giving a competitive edge. However, be wary: mismanagement of this gauge could leave a player out of luck, as one use can drain the entire reserve.
Pay Attention to Dialogues and the Vertical Exploration
Silksong isn’t the type to hold hands and guide players. The dialogues given by NPCs are not mere fluff; they contain vital clues about quests, the narrative, secret areas, and progression. Additionally, vertical exploration is ever-present in this world. A sound tip: always peer downward before jumping. Doing so can prevent nasty falls that send a player spiraling back to the start, or sometimes uncover hidden benches or shortcuts—all the wins!
In summary, Silksong isn’t just a rehash of the original formula. It sharpens the mechanics, adds complexity, and most importantly, offers a brisker, more nimble experience. Hornet portrays a radically different hero, even forcing veterans to rethink their strategies. Following these handy tips won’t guarantee victory, but they will lay a sturdy foundation for delving into the murky depths of Pharloom.
