Warning – Possible SPOILERS

When it comes to Metroidvanias, gamers have an incredible selection of top-tier 2D action-exploration titles to enjoy, whether at home or on the go. From Guacamelee! to Ori and the Will of the Wisps, Blasphemous, or Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, the genre is stacked with masterpieces. Silksong easily ranks among the best — challenging, beautiful, and deeply satisfying.

Let’s step back to 2017, when the original Hollow Knight redefined the genre. Players explored the haunting world of Hallownest through the eyes of The Knight, uncovering a masterpiece of atmosphere and design.

Fast-forward eight years. Fans waited patiently, and in September 2025, Hollow Knight: Silksong finally arrived. The world of Pharloom opened to thousands of players — and within days, many learned just how demanding, yet rewarding, it could be. Returning character Hornet steps into the spotlight this time, a former rival of The Knight who now stars in her own adventure across three acts: Pharloom, Citadel of Song, and Abyss. Each act introduces new abilities, allies, bosses, and benches to rest at between brutal encounters.

After finishing Act 3 — though without 100% completion — I can say Silksong delivers everything fans had hoped. Hornet’s journey mirrors The Knight’s growth while expanding the lore in meaningful ways. The writing, world-building, and difficulty curve make it another triumph for Team Cherry, who continue to set the gold standard for 2D exploration games.

Fans of the series will have plenty to dissect for years, with lore deep enough to fill volumes. As for me, I’ll happily revisit Pharloom — and eagerly await whatever Team Cherry crafts next.

Score: 9.25 / 10
Review by Danny DiMarco
Definitive Review — October 14 2025