Unlocking the Map in Hollow Knight Silksong: A Not-So-Serious Guide

Ah, the joys of Metroidvanias! Nothing like flailing around in beautiful, hand-drawn worlds while feeling hopelessly lost. But fret not, brave gamer! This guide is here to discuss a vital item that might just save you from eternal wandering: the map. For those who have played Hollow Knight Silksong, it’s well-known that it isn’t exactly free upon starting. So, where does one score this crucial tool without resorting to goat sacrifices or throwing darts at a wall? Dive in to discover how to track down the elusive map, despite its caretaking cartographer having a penchant for hide-and-seek!

Tracking Down the Map in Hollow Knight Silksong

At least it’s not like some money-hungry publishers would sneak a map behind a “deluxe” paywall or throw it in as an in-game purchase. No, in this game, there’s a certain level of sadistic satisfaction that the developers took to ensure players earn their map the hard way! So, let’s get the show on the road. First, exit the Bone Hollow village on the right side.

Once that’s done, it’s time to venture into the Abyss, aiming for an area above. Your movement will resemble an upside-down “C”—just think of that geometric disaster while proceeding to the right, climbing as high as possible, and then heading to the top left. Sounds confusing, doesn’t it? Don’t sweat it! The game kind of keeps it linear for the moment. Sooner rather than later, players will stumble upon a cave echoing some intriguing songs. And lo and behold, that’s where Shakra the Cartographer makes her grand entrance!

Now, Shakra isn’t just a pretty drawing; she’s a cartographer-warrior hybrid! However, she’s not in the business of handing out maps for free—oh no! A debt of Perls will have to be paid. Finding pearls does mean facing a bit of combat, and some friendly neighborhood monsters won’t mind giving them up once they’re put out of commission. They’re like those awful relatives that give gifts at Christmas but leave only socks under the tree.

What to Buy from Shakra the Cartographer

The hard truth: probably not enough Perls to buy everything on Shakra’s menu. But worry not! Here’s a curated list of her delightful wares and their associated prices, so savvy consumers can prioritize:

• Green Lands Map – 40 Perls: It’s the basic map. Snag it ASAP!
• Abyss Map – 50 Perls: Because who doesn’t need maps for every zone in the game? Buy this one too.
• Feather – 50 Perls: This automatic map filler is a must-have; don’t even think about skipping it!
• Compass – 70 Perls: This nifty device shows your position on the map. Not essential unless you fancy wandering aimlessly. Just a heads up: it must be equipped at a bench. Because why wouldn’t it?
• Bench Pins – 60 Perls: The ultimate useful markers, guiding players on where to save or heal. What a time to be alive!
• Shell Beacon – 40 Perls: Perfect for those meticulous thoroughbreds that love nothing more than marking spots on their map. That way, no door stays unbothered!

Where on Earth is Shakra the Cartographer Now?

Developers, in their infinite wisdom (or mischief), have decided to change Shakra’s hideout every so often when players return with their hard-earned Perls. She won’t sit still! Players can encounter Shakra in one of two ways:

• First, she can be found waiting in various zones, ready to jump in during a fight if needed. Her inventory will update with all the latest maps and markers. Just listen for her enchanting song—it’s like a siren call but without the shipwrecks!

• Or, here’s a pro tip: just head back to the initial village, Bone Hollow. You’ll hear her melodious hum coming from the upper right platform. This is prime real estate for snagging more of her precious treasures once she’s taken her leave from the field of play.