Hollow Knight: Silksong introduces a range of exciting mechanics, with the moveset-changing Crests standing out as remarkable enhancements to the franchise’s gameplay dynamics.
Players can equip up to seven combinations of tools, moves, and passive traits through Hornet’s various Crests, significantly boosting the game’s replayability and encouraging players to experiment with different playstyles.
If you’re eager to discover the ideal Crest for your gameplay or considering a new setup for your next run, we’ve compiled a comprehensive ranking of every Crest in Hollow Knight: Silksong.
7 Beast Crest
No Pogo, No Party
|
Location |
Chapel of the Beast in Hunter’s March |
|---|---|
|
Slots |
1 Silk Skill, 2 Yellow, 2 Red, 0 Blue |
During my explorations in Pharloom, I quickly learned the importance of mastering the pogo mechanic. Unfortunately, this is precisely why the Beast Crest ranks lowest on our list.
This Crest encourages aggressive tactics and delivers significant damage over brief periods; however, its pogo feature proves ineffective in both platforming challenges and complex boss battles, which comprise the majority of the game’s encounters.
Given its reliance on landing hits for mask recovery, the inherent risk outweighs its benefits, especially as there are no blue tool slots available, significantly limiting its combat potential.
6 Architect Crest
A Shard-Eating Machine
|
Location |
Chapel of the Architect in the Underworks |
|---|---|
|
Slots |
0 Silk Skill, 2 Yellow, 3 Red, 2 Blue |
If you’re like me and prefer to rely on skill rather than consumables in games, you may have hesitated before choosing the Architect Crest.
Shell Shards are plentiful in Pharloom, but their acquisition can be a tedious chore, particularly when high-demand tools consume them at a rapid pace.
While these tools can dispatch many bosses swiftly, sustaining the use of three simultaneously can be impractical unless you’re prepared to engage in extensive farming.
As such, I see the Architect Crest as a situational asset—helpful in specific tight spots but not ideal for regular play.
5 Shaman Crest
The Path of Magic
|
Location |
Ruined Chapel in Moss Grotto during Act 3 |
|---|---|
|
Slots |
3 Silk Skills, 0 Yellow, 0 Red, 2 Blue |
While I initially felt disappointed that the game limits simultaneous use of its vast powers, discovering the Shaman Crest sparked my interest.
This late-game discovery might prove challenging for players already accustomed to other Crests. However, its potential for damage output is remarkable.
With the capability of housing two blue tools and three Silk Skills, the Crest allows for ranged attacks akin to magic waves, significantly boosting damage, albeit at the cost of healing potential.
This Crest is particularly suited for experienced players who can handle the trade-off between offense and healing.
4 Witch Crest
Great for Fighting, Not for Healing
|
Location |
After completing the ‘Infestation Operation’ quest in Sinner’s Road |
|---|---|
|
Slots |
1 Silk Skill, 0 Yellow, 2 Red, 3 Blue |
Revealing the Witch Crest involves navigating one of Silksong’s most intricate quests, though its utility may prove less straightforward.
While it boasts visually spectacular attacks, those seeking to maintain their health may find the Crest challenging, as recovering masks requires hitting nearby enemies—making it difficult to create distance during chaotic encounters.
This Crest becomes an excellent choice for skilled players focused on maximizing damage output, particularly due to its compatibility with three blue and two red tool slots. However, navigating its complexities can be daunting even for seasoned gamers.
3 Reaper Crest
Reap Them Apart
|
Location |
Chapel of the Reaper in Greymoor |
|---|---|
|
Slots |
1 Silk Skill, 2 Yellow, 2 Red, 2 Blue |
Typically one of the first Crests players will acquire, the Reaper Crest offers a playstyle that’s both accessible and consistent.
Its similarities to Hollow Knight’s moveset create a more intuitive gameplay experience, facilitating a focus on strategic strikes instead of complex maneuvers.
Moreover, the silk remnants produced after each attack enhance healing and energy reserves, making it a reliable choice for those desiring consistent performance amidst challenging gameplay.
Though I found it initially awkward compared to Hornet’s default skills, the Reaper Crest is undoubtedly strong, particularly for those still honing their abilities in this tough environment.
2 Wanderer Crest
Feels Like Home
|
Location |
Chapel of the Wanderer in Moss Grotto |
|---|---|
|
Slots |
1 Silk Skill, 3 Yellow, 1 Red, 2 Blue |
In contrast to the previous Crest, playing with the Wanderer Crest truly evokes the essence of Hallownest, with gameplay resembling that of the franchise’s earlier title.
Although the greater number of yellow tools might seem detrimental, it’s offset by the Crest’s enhanced attack speed, allowing for substantial damage output.
This style encourages close proximity to enemies, rewarding engagement with immediate benefits, and provides an optimal platforming experience thanks to its more accessible pogo mechanics.
Unlockable early in your journey in Moss Grotto, this Crest seems designed for those nostalgic to relive The Knight’s experience, reinforcing the connection to the series’ roots.
1 Hunter Crest
Hornet’s True Self
|
Location |
Automatically equipped at the start of the game |
|---|---|
|
Slots |
1 Silk Skill, 2 Yellow, 2 Red, 2 Blue |
I may be amongst the few who felt an instant connection to the Hunter Crest, but it genuinely reflects Team Cherry’s vision for gameplay.
Every element, from combat to platforming mechanics, aligns beautifully with the Crest’s design, enhancing the fluidity of movement and momentum throughout Pharloom’s challenges.
While the learning curve differs from the original game, once the nuances click, the ease of progression becomes apparent, showcasing the Crest’s adaptability.
Featuring a balanced distribution of tools and the potential for upgrades through Eva in Weavenest Atla, the Hunter Crest provides high speed, effective damage management, seamless pogoing, and consistent healing, making it the finest choice for players looking to embody Hornet’s true capabilities.
In summary, I firmly believe the Hunter Crest is not only the best in Silksong but also the one that best allows players to express Hornet’s essence, reinforcing the realization that this title is a distinct chapter within the Hollow Knight universe.
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