Hollow Knight: Silksong calms expectations with a 30-minute demo

After six years of waiting, the first hands-on experience with Hollow Knight: Silksong proved that the game not only meets expectations, but also refines the formula that made the original a success. The 30-minute demo made it clear that, although the game has familiar gameplay, the new protagonist, Hornet, brings a distinct agility and precision.

The initial feeling when controlling Hornet is one of familiarity, as if no time had passed since the release of the first game. However, the character is significantly different from the Knight. Hornet is more graceful and precise, with traversal and combat abilities that encourage a more fluid and agile approach. The divekick attack, for example, requires the player to master its use to face the toughest challenges.

Despite the difference in control, the game world maintains its essence. There are keys to find, shortcuts to unlock, and hidden items. The art direction is sharper, but the atmosphere and setting are the same as in Hollow Knight.

The combat in Silksong requires players to use the environment to their advantage. Enemies with helmets ignore aerial attacks, forcing ground combat, while enemies with shields change the direction of their guard, requiring the player to constantly move to find an opening. The demo culminated in a duel against a boss that resembles a mirror image of Hornet herself, with fast and precise attacks. To defeat her, the player needs to use all their arsenal, including throwing knives and super-charged attacks.

The demo also revealed details about Hornet's healing and attack system. The magic system is charged with physical attacks, and the player can choose to use it for healing or to launch more powerful attacks, depending on their playstyle.

Although the game doesn't seem to be a revolution for the metroidvania genre, the 30-minute demo was enough to immerse players back into the universe of Hollow Knight, leaving a feeling of wanting to play more 100 hours. Silksong seems to be a more refined, precise, and better version of the original game.

The first impression of Hollow Knight: Silksong was positive. Is the approach of refining the formula instead of revolutionizing it the right path to success for a game that has six years of anticipation?