Hollow Knight: Silksong is the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed indie game, Hollow Knight. Developed by Team Cherry, a small indie studio based in Adelaide, Australia, Hollow Knight has garnered a dedicated fan base for its stunning hand-drawn art style, challenging gameplay, and captivating world filled with mysterious creatures and lore.
Initially released in 2017, Hollow Knight follows the journey of a lone, silent knight as he explores the vast, interconnected underground kingdom of Hallownest. Throughout his journey, the knight encounters a myriad of quirky characters, engaging in challenging battles and discovering the dark secrets of this hauntingly beautiful world.
The success of Hollow Knight led to the development of a highly anticipated sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong. In this latest installment, players take on the role of Hornet, a mysterious princess with agile combat skills and a strong connection to the world of insects. Set in a new kingdom called Pharloom, players will explore new environments, battle new enemies, and uncover the secrets of this strange and beautiful world.
In a recent interview with Team Cherry, co-founders William Pellen and Ari Gibson shared some insights into the development of Hollow Knight: Silksong and the metamorphosis of the game from its early concept to its current form.
According to Pellen, the idea for Silksong came about organically during the development of Hollow Knight. “We always knew that Hornet was a fascinating character with a unique story to tell,” Pellen explained. “As we fleshed out her backstory and motivations, it became clear that she deserved her own game, one that would allow players to experience the world of Hollow Knight from a fresh perspective.”
Gibson added that the team drew inspiration from classic Metroidvania games like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and Metroid, as well as more recent indie titles such as Dead Cells and Celeste. “We wanted to capture the same sense of exploration, discovery, and challenge that players loved in the original Hollow Knight, while also introducing new mechanics and features that would make Silksong feel like a true evolution of the series.”
One of the key changes in Silksong is the addition of a new movement mechanic called “silkstrand,” which allows Hornet to traverse the environment with greater speed and agility. “We wanted to emphasize Hornet’s acrobatic abilities and make traversal a more dynamic and engaging experience,” Pellen said. “The silkstrand adds a new layer of depth to the gameplay, allowing players to string together fluid movements and perform stylish aerial maneuvers.”
In terms of level design, Team Cherry aimed to create a more diverse and interconnected world in Silksong. “Pharloom is a kingdom of contrasts, with lush forests, towering spires, and dark, foreboding caverns,” Gibson explained. “Players will encounter a wider variety of environments and biomes, each with its own unique challenges and secrets to uncover.”
The team also focused on expanding the lore and story of the world of Hollow Knight in Silksong. “Players will learn more about Hornet’s origins, her connection to the kingdom of Pharloom, and the ancient mysteries that lie buried beneath the surface,” Pellen teased. “We wanted to delve deeper into the rich lore of the series and give players a deeper understanding of the world they are exploring.”
As Hollow Knight: Silksong continues to evolve and take shape, fans of the series eagerly await its release, eager to embark on a new adventure with Hornet and explore the mesmerizing world of Pharloom. With Team Cherry’s dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail, Hollow Knight: Silksong promises to be a worthy successor to its beloved predecessor, offering players an unforgettable journey through a beautifully crafted world filled with danger, mystery, and wonder.
