As soon as you conquer the initial challenge of defeating the Moss Mother and emerge from the area where your prison was located, you embark on a significant quest towards The Citadel. This pivotal moment marks the transition into Act Two of the game, setting the stage for further adventures.
Staying true to the Metroidvania genre, the game provides little guidance or tools necessary to reach your goal, compelling players to explore extensively, collect vital items and abilities, and overcome formidable bosses as they navigate the expansive map.
For those familiar with Hollow Knight, it’s important to note that not everything is required for progression, and certain tasks are more efficiently tackled in a specific sequence.
If you’re seeking the most streamlined and effective route through Act One, look no further. This guide focuses on essential steps for casual players looking to enjoy the journey without feeling overwhelmed.
Optimal Route Through Act One
The world of Hollow Knight: Silksong is vast, filled with hidden treasures and challenging routes. However, many optional areas may pose more frustration than benefit for most players.
Here, we present a recommended progression order, highlighting the key areas while excluding any less critical detours.
|
Order # |
Area Name |
Key Objectives |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Moss Grotto |
Defeat Moss Mother |
|
2 |
Mosshome |
Acquire Silk Spear |
|
3 |
The Marrow |
Defeat Bell Beast |
|
4 |
Deep Docks |
Overcome Lace |
|
5 |
Far Fields |
Obtain Drifter CloakDefeat Fourth Chorus |
|
6 |
Greymoor |
Conquer Moorwing or gather 5 Fleas |
|
7 |
Shellwood |
Defeat Sister SplinterAcquire Cling Grip |
|
8 |
Bellhart |
Defeat WidowAcquire Needolin Skill |
|
9 |
Blasted Steps |
Defeat Last Judge |
While players may encounter several optional areas in the first act like Hunter’s March, Sinner’s Road, Bilewater, Wormways, and Weavenest Alta, these regions offer rewards that may not significantly aid casual players following the main progression path.
Boss Encounters & Guides
The table above highlights eight essential bosses to battle, with two being technically optional. However, we recommend defeating these foes as they present a balanced challenge.
These bosses have been designed to scale effectively, so it’s advisable to adhere to the suggested order for an optimal experience.
Below, you will find the locations and comprehensive guides for each of these bosses:
|
Name |
Location |
Guide |
|---|---|---|
|
Moss Mother |
||
|
Bell Beast |
||
|
Lace |
||
|
Fourth Chorus |
||
|
Moorwing |
||
|
Sister Splinter |
||
|
Widow |
||
|
Last Judge |
Vital Skills & Abilities
In this section, we’ve outlined the crucial skills you’ll need to gather during your journey, along with guides to acquire them.
|
Name |
Location |
Guide |
|---|---|---|
|
Silk Spear |
||
|
Swift Step |
||
|
Drifter Cloak |
||
|
Wall Cling |
||
|
Needolin |
Suggested Optional Activities
Completing the tasks listed above will guide you through the initial act of the game swiftly, should you choose to do so. However, several optional quests and activities can enhance your overall experience. Here are a few suggestions that can ease your progress:
Acquire the Warding Bell
A fantastic optional tool, the Warding Bell, can be found in the upper region of Far Fields. This item provides a significant advantage by enabling you to heal without the risk of taking damage.
While enemies can interrupt your healing, they will sustain damage as a consequence, mitigating the risks associated with mis-timed heals.
Obtain the Threefold Pins & Thread Storm
In addition to defensive items, it’s crucial to enhance your offensive capabilities. The Threefold Pins—located in an optional area above Craw Lake—allow you to hurl three projectiles at enemies from a distance.
You’ll face a challenging battle against some aggressive birds to acquire this upgrade, but overcoming this obstacle is well worth the effort. Afterward, continue your ascent to discover the Thread Storm Silk Skill, which becomes invaluable in densely populated enemy encounters.
Gather 5 Fleas
If you’re hesitant to face Moorwing directly due to the challenge it poses, consider the early-game quest that requires collecting 5 Fleas scattered throughout the map.
By seeking these collectibles, you can relocate the Fleas’ camp to Moorwing’s location, allowing you to bypass the encounter entirely and gain entry to Bellhart without combat. Alternatively, mastering the fight against Moorwing is also a valid route.
Explore Alternative Crests
Players frequently discuss the tricky diagonal pogo movement associated with the Hunter Crest, so it’s wise to consider exploring alternative options.
Different crests offer unique movement abilities and can enhance your gameplay depending on the Memory Lockets you have. Four alternative crests can be found within the first act, including upgrades to the Hunter Crest. The Reaper Crest is particularly recommended for its advantages.
Enhance Your Needle
Upon restoring Bellhart and lifting the Silk Curse, you’ll gain access to new NPCs and merchants, including one who can sharpen your needle—an essential upgrade for your character.
Your first sharpening is free after defeating Widow, so don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your damage output. Failure to upgrade could lead to a challenging encounter with Last Judge down the line. For more information, consult the complete guide on how Needle Sharpening functions in Silksong.
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