It's hard to say anything about Hollow Knight: Silksong that hasn't been noted for the past six years and change. It's one of the most highly anticipated games on multiple platforms, and at $20, many people will be checking it out come September 4, when it debuts on a range of systems, both new and old.
Before that day comes, though, we had a chance to sit down with a playable Switch 2 build of Silksong at PAX West, and try out both demo areas. While you probably knew this already, the game is shaping up very nicely, especially on Switch 2 in particular.
Hornet Feels Different Enough From The Original Hero
I've Already Gotten Used To Her Dive Attack
We had access to two areas from the core game: Moss Grotto, and Deep Docks. The former was an early game area, and allowed for a more relaxed way to acclimate to the controls. Naturally, I dove into Deep Docks headfirst. What better way to experience an action game than to jump into the deep end?
Having recently come off a 100% run of Hollow Knight, I was surprised at how unique Hornet was compared to the original protagonist. Her main claim to fame is a faster heal (by holding Circle/B after getting enough silk/mana), as well as a dive attack that mirrors her mechanics from the first game. This is key to understanding how to control Hornet properly, and it'll take people time (newcomers and veterans alike) to get used to it. The diagonal diving mechanic alone is huge and completely transforms how you approach platforming and combat.
As for the areas, Moss Grotto looked about on par with some of the most mesmerizing locales of the original game, but Deep Docks was beautiful. Embers danced across the screen as I delved through this metallic, fiery zone, complete with twists and turns, secret areas, and several arena/boss battles.
The boss of the area was Lace, an agile fencer who felt like a classic Hollow Knight brawler. Her thrusting and dive attacks were nicely matched with Hornet, and fighting felt like a dance of sorts. I can't wait to fight the inevitably souped-up version at some point, if Silksong ​​​​​​keeps in line with the original version's challenge modes.
Silksong Is Going To Hit It Off With Fans Immediately
It's Easy To Pick Up And Play
Unlike a few other third-party games on Switch 2, Silksong seems like it's going to be a homerun on the platform from day one, without any need for a patch. I tested both TV and portable mode for Switch 2, and both played wonderfully. Everything was smooth, and there were no hitches to speak of, which is an excellent byproduct of seven years of consecutive development.
Given the hybrid nature of the Switch 2, this should be an easy sell for those who are fortunate enough to own one already. The original Hollow Knight was a perfect "short and long session" game, and the sequel won't be any different in that regard. It's easy to do "one area" or "one boss fight" or swap to a marathon session on the fly.
Hollow Knight: Silksong is nearly here and will be debuting in mere days on September 4, 2025. It'll be available on PC, Switch 1/2, PS4/5, as well as Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 91/100 Critics Rec: 97%
- Released
- September 4, 2025
- ESRB
- Everyone 10+ / Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood
- Developer(s)
- Team Cherry
- Publisher(s)
- Team Cherry
- Engine
- Unity
