Indie Game Delays Increase Due to Hollow Knight Silksong

The Ripple Effect of Hollow Knight: Silksong on Indie Game Releases

For years, the anticipated release of Hollow Knight: Silksong has loomed large over the indie gaming sector and the broader video game industry. As a sequel to one of the most successful indie titles ever, its launch is set to be monumental. Now, with the release just days away, excitement buzzes among fans and developers. However, a notable trend has emerged: several indie studios are voluntarily postponing their own games to avoid competition with the inevitable spotlight on Silksong.

Delayed Titles: The Impact of Timing

Shortly after Team Cherry announced the game’s release date of September 4, two development studios, Panik Arcade and Aeternum Game Studios, shifted the timelines of their upcoming titles. In the weeks since, at least five additional games have also experienced delays, all citing Silksong as the primary reason for their decisions. This strategic move highlights the collaborative nature of the indie community, as studios prioritize visibility and potential success.

High-Profile Postponements

Among the more prominent games opting to reschedule is Baby Steps, crafted by the minds behind cult hits like QWOP and Getting Over It. Originally slated for release on September 8, the team decided to push their launch to September 23, 2025. Recognizing the potential overshadowing by Silksong, developers Gabe Cuzzillo, Maxi Boch, and Bennet Foddy felt it prudent to provide their game with a clearer spotlight.

Controversy Among Developers

A notable shift occurred with Demonschool, from Necrosoft Games and Ysbryd Games, which has moved from its September 3 debut to November 19, 2025. Ysbryd acknowledged the inherent competitiveness of the release window, stating, “gaining visibility for Demonschool is our main goal. Wading into waters we can clearly see are blood red would not serve our game well.”Interestingly, there were conflicting feelings surrounding this delay—Necrosoft expressed that the decision was not theirs but acknowledged the necessity for it, commending Ysbryd for covering costs incurred due to the shift.

This was not our choice but we understand why the choice was made. We aren’t mad at Ysbryd but at the situation. Dropping the GTA of indie games with 2 weeks notice makes everyone freak out. Ysbryd is being a good partner and paying for the delay. We’re sorry this is happening.https://t.co/uz2FlPMUNi

— Necrosoft Games | wishlist Demonschool now! (@necrosoftgames) August 25, 2025

Early Adopter Adjustments

Faeland, an early access RPG from Talegames, also quickly adjusted its release plans to avoid starting its exit from early access on September 9 right next to Silksong. They will announce a new launch date in the near future.

Our v1.0 launch was set for Sept 9, but with today’s Silksong news, we’ve made the tough call to postpone. A new date is coming soon, thank you all for the love and support ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Lh07iGLHHn

— TALEGAMES (@Talegamesnews) August 21, 2025

Further Adjustments Across the Board

Another notable mention is Little Witch in the Woods, which has shifted its v1.0 launch from September 4 to September 15, 2025, following early access in 2022.

[Release Date Update] Little Witch in the Woods has been rescheduled: September 4 → September 15, 2025. We sincerely apologize, and promise to make your wait worthwhile.pic.twitter.com/qhFgxEDwvl

— Little Witch in the Woods (@SunnySideUp_DEV) August 26, 2025

Further showcasing the overwhelming impact of Hollow Knight: Silksong, the demo for Stomp and the Sword of Miracles, initially slated for release on the same day, has also been postponed for additional polish. Developers Bee Braun and Frogteam Games are prioritizing quality over competing for attention.

Head’s up – the Stomp demo has had to be suddenly delayed. I’ll keep you all updated when I know what the plan is.

— Stomp and the Sword of Miracles (@frogteam.games) 2025-08-21T16:29:41.176Z

Conclusion: A Strategic Retreat

In total, at least seven games have delayed their releases in light of Silksong. Intriguingly, three out of these seven titles share a 2D platforming genre, underscoring the strategic reasoning behind their decision to allow platforming fans to fully experience Silksong before considering them for alternative titles. Though these varying games may seek different audiences, the perception that Hollow Knight: Silksong will monopolize attention reflects a shared conviction within the indie community about the game’s potential impact. Expect to see ripple effects long after its release as these games strive to carve out their own niches in the competitive landscape.

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