After a seven-year wait, the long-anticipated sequel to Hollow Knight finally arrives: Silksong, an indie title that shook the industry the moment its release date was revealed, even causing other developers to delay their games to avoid competing with it.
This time, we take control of Hornet, daughter of the former king, who was captured by the kingdom of Pharloom with the intent of exploiting her ability to weave silk. However, during her transport, she manages to escape and, once recovered, embarks on a mission to uncover the truth behind her capture while facing anyone who stands in her way.
Gameplay follows the classic Metroidvania style, with 2D map exploration, intense boss battles that grant new abilities, and a narrative that unfolds gradually through NPC interactions. Much like the original, the difficulty remains challenging and borrows from Dark Souls mechanics, such as losing resources upon death. This time, the game introduces Crests, which act as ability and move modifiers, and can be enhanced with additional tools to enrich the experience.
One of the most notable changes is that Hornet is far more agile and athletic, allowing for smoother and faster combat. Visually, the game is once again breathtaking, featuring hand-drawn art where every stroke feels meticulously crafted, breathing life into each environment. Level design leans heavily on verticality: while the first game had players descending into the depths, this sequel challenges you to ascend toward the insect palace.
The soundtrack deserves special recognition. Mysterious, atmospheric, and impactful, it stands as one of the finest in indie gaming, a must-have for any collection. Enemy design is equally impressive, presenting a unique artistic take on various insect species.
That said, the game isn’t without flaws. Its difficulty can feel overwhelming, and the lack of clear direction may frustrate some players. The upgrade system is also debatable, as resources are scarce and easily lost. At times, progression is locked behind spending coins to open paths, though this limitation can be offset by farming enemies repeatedly, making the issue less severe.
In conclusion, Hollow Knight: Silksong is without a doubt one of the best indie games in recent years. With its intense, addictive combat, striking hand-drawn art, and unforgettable soundtrack, it delivers an experience rivaling AAA productions—at an accessible price that forces the industry to rethink its standards of quality.
Final Score: 5/5
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