Hollow Knight: Silksong—the long-awaited sequel to the critically acclaimed Hollow Knight—recently sent shockwaves through its devoted community after briefly vanishing from the North American Nintendo eShop. While the incident was quickly resolved, it sparked a whirlwind of speculation and highlighted the fervor surrounding one of the most anticipated indie games in recent years.
The Mystery Disappearance
On February 18, 2025, fans noticed that Silksong’s listing was suddenly missing from the North American Nintendo eShop. Given the radio silence from developer Team Cherry regarding the game’s release date, the removal raised immediate concerns. Was this a sign of cancellation? Was a shadow drop imminent? Fans flooded social media, forums like Reddit, and gaming news outlets, seeking answers.
However, the panic was short-lived. Within hours, the eShop page was restored, confirming that the disappearance was temporary. Interestingly, the game remained listed on other platforms—including the European eShop, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and Steam—further suggesting that this was likely a regional glitch or part of a backend update on the Nintendo side.
A Community on High Alert
The incident may have been minor, but it perfectly illustrates the intense anticipation surrounding Hollow Knight: Silksong. Since its announcement in February 2019, fans have been clamoring for updates. The prolonged development cycle, paired with sparse official communication from Team Cherry, has only fueled speculation and heightened expectations.
Adding to the intrigue, Silksong was notably absent from several major gaming events in 2023 and 2024, including Summer Game Fest and Nintendo Direct presentations. Each no-show added more pressure to the growing fan theories about hidden release plans or development hurdles.
Where Is Silksong Now?
Despite the brief eShop hiccup, there’s good news: Hollow Knight: Silksong is still very much in development. Team Cherry has consistently emphasized their commitment to delivering a game that meets, if not exceeds, the standards set by the original. In a previous interview, the developers explained that the game had grown far beyond initial expectations, evolving into a significantly larger project than first envisioned.
However, as of now, there is still no official release date.
Why the Hype?
The passion surrounding Silksong isn’t just because it’s a sequel—it’s because Hollow Knight set an incredibly high bar for indie games. Released in 2017, the original Hollow Knight became a cult classic, praised for its vast interconnected world, deep lore, and challenging combat. It sold over 3 million copies worldwide and has been hailed as one of the greatest Metroidvania games of all time.
Silksong aims to build on that legacy by introducing:
- A New Protagonist: Players take control of Hornet, the agile princess-protector, whose acrobatic combat style introduces faster, more dynamic gameplay compared to the Knight’s methodical approach.
- An Entirely New Kingdom: Pharloom, a land “haunted by silk and song,” serves as the backdrop. The world promises vertical exploration, deadly traps, and over 150 new enemies.
- Crafting & Side Quests: Expanding the game’s RPG elements, Silksong introduces crafting systems and a range of side quests, deepening the world-building and offering more replay value.
- A Complex Lore: Hollow Knight was known for its rich, cryptic storytelling, and Silksong looks set to dive even deeper, with Hornet uncovering the mysteries of Pharloom while confronting her own destiny.
The Bigger Picture: Patience Is Key
The eShop incident underscores a broader point: Hollow Knight: Silksong exists in a rare space where community anticipation borders on obsession. Every minor update—or lack thereof—sends ripples through the fanbase. But history has shown that good things come to those who wait. Hollow Knight itself spent years in development and emerged as a genre-defining masterpiece.
While it’s understandable for fans to feel restless, the brief eShop disappearance was just a hiccup, not a harbinger of bad news. If anything, it’s a reminder of how much this game means to its community.
For now, we wait. But if Silksong manages to live up to even half of the expectations placed upon it, the wait will be more than worth it.
Key Takeaways
- Hollow Knight: Silksong features Hornet as the playable character in a new silk-themed kingdom
- The game expands on the original’s metroidvania style with fresh challenges and enemies
- Team Cherry aims to deliver a visually stunning world with tight gameplay mechanics
Game Overview and Development
Hollow Knight: Silksong is the highly anticipated sequel to the acclaimed action-adventure game Hollow Knight. This new installment features Hornet as the main character and promises expanded gameplay mechanics in a fresh setting.
Origins and Evolution
Team Cherry initially conceived Silksong as downloadable content for Hollow Knight. The project’s scope grew significantly, leading to its evolution into a full-fledged sequel. The developers aim to build upon the success of the original game while introducing new elements.
Silksong’s development timeline has been extensive. The game was first announced in February 2019, generating excitement among fans. Team Cherry has been working diligently to create a polished experience that lives up to expectations.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Silksong retains the 2D Metroidvania style of its predecessor. Players control Hornet, a nimble and lethal hunter with unique abilities. The game introduces new movement options and combat techniques tailored to Hornet’s agile fighting style.
Key features include:
- Expanded world to explore
- New enemies and bosses
- Enhanced platforming challenges
- Upgraded crafting system
Team Cherry has focused on refining the gameplay mechanics to offer a fresh yet familiar experience for fans of the original Hollow Knight.
Platform and Release Information
Hollow Knight: Silksong will be available on multiple platforms:
- PC (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5
- Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S
The game will also be accessible through Xbox Game Pass at launch. Despite high anticipation, Team Cherry has not announced a specific release date. The developers continue to work on perfecting the game, prioritizing quality over a rushed release.
Silksong uses the Unity engine, allowing for smooth performance across various platforms. The indie nature of the project has given Team Cherry the freedom to take their time in crafting a worthy sequel to Hollow Knight.
Narrative and Setting
Hollow Knight: Silksong transports players to the haunting kingdom of Pharloom. This new realm promises a rich tapestry of environments and characters for Hornet to encounter on her perilous journey.
The Enigmatic Kingdom
Pharloom stands as a land of contrasts, blending beauty and danger in equal measure. Gilded cities rise above mossy grottos, while misted moors give way to vibrant coral forests. Each area hides secrets and challenges for the intrepid explorer.
Players will uncover the kingdom’s history as they progress. Ancient pilgrimages and forgotten rituals shape Pharloom’s culture. The land’s unique ecology influences its inhabitants, from the smallest bug to the mightiest beast.
Team Cherry has crafted a world that feels alive and interconnected. Environmental storytelling hints at past events and looming threats. Pharloom’s mysteries await those brave enough to seek them out.
Hornet, the Princess-Protector
Hornet takes center stage as the game’s protagonist. Once a supporting character, she now embarks on her own quest. Her royal lineage and warrior skills make her a formidable hero.
Players will guide Hornet as she navigates Pharloom’s perils. Her agility and combat prowess set her apart from the previous game’s Knight. New abilities allow for more acrobatic exploration and intense battles.
Hornet’s motivations remain shrouded in mystery. Her presence in Pharloom raises questions about her past and future. As players progress, they’ll uncover the truth behind Hornet’s journey and her connection to this strange land.
Gameplay Experience
Hollow Knight: Silksong promises fast-paced, acrobatic action with intricate combat and exploration. Players will navigate a new world as Hornet, facing unique challenges and uncovering ancient mysteries.
Combat and Challenges
Silksong’s combat system emphasizes speed and precision. Hornet wields her needle and silk with deadly accuracy, allowing for swift attacks and acrobatic maneuvers. Players must master timing and positioning to overcome fierce enemies and bosses.
The game introduces new combat tools and weapons. These additions expand Hornet’s arsenal, providing varied approaches to battles. Traps and mechanisms scattered throughout levels add extra layers of danger and strategy.
Bosses present formidable obstacles. Each encounter tests players’ skills and reflexes. The difficulty ramps up progressively, ensuring a consistent challenge throughout the adventure.
Exploration and Discovery
Silksong’s world teems with secrets and hidden areas. Players traverse diverse environments, from lush forests to treacherous caverns. Each location holds its own set of challenges and rewards.
The game features a quest system that guides exploration. Players encounter various characters who offer tasks and missions. Completing these quests often leads to valuable rewards and unveils pieces of the kingdom’s lore.
Rare beasts roam the lands, offering unique encounters for adventurous players. Hunting these creatures can yield special items or unlock new abilities for Hornet. Ancient mysteries await discovery, driving the narrative forward and encouraging thorough exploration of every nook and cranny.
Art and Audio Design
Hollow Knight: Silksong builds upon the stunning visuals and haunting soundtrack of its predecessor. The game’s artistic elements create an immersive atmosphere that draws players into its world.
Visuals and Artistic Direction
Silksong retains the hand-drawn 2D art style that made Hollow Knight visually striking. The Unity engine powers the game’s fluid animations and intricate backgrounds. Hornet, the protagonist, features a redesigned look that blends her original silhouette with more insect-like details.
The game’s color palette expands beyond the muted tones of Hallownest, introducing vibrant hues that reflect new environments. Character designs showcase greater diversity, from imposing bosses to quirky NPCs. Environmental storytelling remains a key focus, with each area conveying its history through visual cues.
Musical Score and Sound
Christopher Larkin returns as composer, crafting an orchestral score that enhances Silksong’s emotional impact. The soundtrack blends melancholy melodies with energetic boss themes, reflecting the game’s varying moods and locations.
New instruments and motifs distinguish Silksong’s music from the original game. Sound design plays a crucial role in gameplay, with distinct audio cues for enemy attacks and environmental hazards. The audio landscape evolves as players progress, subtly changing to match the shifting atmosphere of different regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans eagerly await news about Hollow Knight: Silksong, the sequel to the popular Metroidvania game. Many questions surround its features, platforms, release date, and development progress.
What new features can players expect in ‘Hollow Knight: Silksong’?
Hollow Knight: Silksong introduces Hornet as the playable character. Her moveset differs from the Knight’s in the original game. Players can look forward to new abilities, enemies, and environments.
The game promises a larger world to explore. Team Cherry has hinted at more challenging platforming sections and complex combat scenarios.
Which platforms will ‘Hollow Knight: Silksong’ be available on?
Hollow Knight: Silksong will release on multiple platforms. Confirmed platforms include Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
PC players can purchase the game through Steam, GOG, and the Humble Store. This wide availability ensures most gamers can access the title.
Has a definitive release date for ‘Hollow Knight: Silksong’ been announced?
As of December 17, 2024, Team Cherry has not announced a definitive release date for Hollow Knight: Silksong. The developers maintain a “it’s done when it’s done” approach.
Fans continue to watch for updates from official sources. The game’s appearance on various platform stores suggests progress, but no concrete launch date exists yet.
What is the anticipated price point for ‘Hollow Knight: Silksong’ upon release?
Team Cherry has not revealed the price for Hollow Knight: Silksong. The original Hollow Knight’s pricing may offer a clue, but this is speculative.
Given the game’s expanded scope, some fans expect a slightly higher price than the original. Official pricing information will likely come closer to the release date.
Will there be any opportunities to play a demo of ‘Hollow Knight: Silksong’ before its official launch?
No official announcement about a Hollow Knight: Silksong demo has been made. Team Cherry has not indicated plans for a public demo before the full release.
Some gaming events or conferences might offer hands-on experiences. Fans should keep an eye on official channels for potential demo announcements.
What are the latest updates and news regarding the development of ‘Hollow Knight: Silksong’?
Recent updates for Hollow Knight: Silksong include its ESRB and USK ratings. These ratings suggest the game is progressing through final development stages.
The appearance of Silksong on the Microsoft Store and other platform stores indicates ongoing preparations for release. Team Cherry occasionally shares snippets of development progress on their blog and social media channels.
