Hollow Knight: The Review

Hollow Knight: The Review

Score: 9.5 out of 10

Overview: "Hollow Knight is a near-flawless masterpiece of the Metroidvania genre, offering a hauntingly beautiful world, razor-sharp gameplay, and an unforgettable sense of discovery. Team Cherry’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the game, from its intricate hand-drawn art to its rich lore and dynamic combat. With challenging yet rewarding mechanics, a sprawling interconnected world, and an ethereal soundtrack, Hollow Knight delivers an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Though its punishing difficulty may deter some, for those willing to persevere, it’s nothing short of extraordinary."

The Positives

• Hollow Knight features a breathtakingly detailed world rendered in gorgeous hand-drawn 2D visuals. The game’s Gothic art style, combined with its haunting use of light and shadow, creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Each area, from the fungal caverns to the crystalline peaks, is visually distinct, inviting players to explore every corner of Hallownest;
• The interconnected world of Hallownest is vast and teeming with secrets. Environmental storytelling and subtle narrative cues give the world a palpable sense of history, making exploration a deeply immersive experience. Discovering hidden areas and uncovering lore feels natural and rewarding, without the need for excessive exposition;
• The combat in Hollow Knight is both simple and precise, relying on tight mechanics and player skill. As you progress, you’ll encounter a wide range of enemies and over 40 unique boss fights, each requiring a distinct strategy. The gradual introduction of new abilities and charms keeps gameplay fresh, allowing for customization and experimentation;
• Christopher Larkin’s ethereal score perfectly complements the game’s melancholic tone. From the serene strings of Greenpath to the ominous crescendos of the Colosseum of Fools, the music elevates every moment, creating an emotional resonance that’s impossible to forget;
• With dozens of hours of gameplay, a wealth of secrets to uncover, and multiple endings, Hollow Knight offers an exceptional amount of content. The free DLC expansions, including Godmaster, The Grimm Troupe, and Lifeblood, further enrich the experience, adding new bosses, quests, and challenges;
• The game’s platforming mechanics are finely tuned, making every jump, dash, and wall-climb feel responsive and satisfying. Exploration is both thrilling and rewarding, with numerous shortcuts, hidden upgrades, and cleverly designed puzzles that encourage players to experiment with their growing arsenal of abilities;
• The charm system allows for significant customization, letting players tailor their playstyle to suit their preferences. Whether you prefer aggressive melee combat or a more defensive, spell-based approach, Hollow Knight provides the tools to adapt.

The Negatives

• While rewarding for many, the game’s steep learning curve and unforgiving boss fights can be intimidating for less experienced players. Some sections, such as the Path of Pain, push the limits of difficulty and may frustrate those seeking a more accessible experience;
• Hollow Knight deliberately avoids hand-holding, which can leave some players feeling lost. While this adds to the sense of discovery, it may alienate those who prefer more direction in their exploration.

The Experience

Hollow Knight is a game that understands the beauty of restraint, weaving its world, mechanics, and narrative into a cohesive whole that rewards patience and curiosity. It’s a journey of solitude and discovery, filled with moments of awe, triumph, and bittersweet melancholy.
Whether you’re navigating the quiet corridors of Hallownest or battling relentless foes in a desperate fight for survival, Hollow Knight remains a masterclass in game design. Its combination of breathtaking visuals, deep gameplay, and resonant storytelling make it a modern classic, and its impact on the genre is undeniable.
For fans of Metroidvanias or anyone who treasures an immersive, challenging adventure, Hollow Knight is a must-play—a testament to the power of independent game development and one of the finest titles of its generation.