With the release of Hollow Knight: Silksong now behind us, many players might be grappling with the emotional aftermath of finishing Hornet’s journey. That void can feel immense, especially if you’re not sure how to fill it.
While my personal gaming obsession is currently with Hades II, I understand the sentiment of longing for a new adventure. Fortunately, a selection of titles exists to help mask that emptiness in your heart.
Ranging from games that mirror the Metroidvania style to those that resonate with the atmosphere and essence of Silksong, there are plenty of worlds waiting for you to explore. Here’s a curated list of ten great games that evoke the spirit of Hollow Knight: Silksong.
10. Ori and the Blind Forest
A Journey of Beauty
From the moment I began playing Ori and the Blind Forest, I was captivated by the urge to explore its immersive environment. Much like Silksong, this game embodies the thrill of uncovering every hidden corner of its beautifully crafted worlds.
Although the execution differs, the joy of exploration parallels that of Moon Studios’ masterpiece. The fluidity of movement enhances your journey through these stunning landscapes, making every moment spent navigating its terrain feel rewarding.
With a poignant story and an evocative soundtrack, Ori and the Blind Forest not only aligns with the values represented in Silksong but also boasts a sequel that’s just as enchanting, offering a perfect transition once you’ve completed this initial adventure.
9. Blasphemous 2
The Thrill of Discovery
In immersing oneself into Blasphemous 2, players often experience a strong impetus to seek out every aspect of its content, reminiscent of the completionist passion found in Silksong. While the original game was well-received, its sequel significantly elevates the stakes with improved mechanics and exhilarating combat sequences that challenge you to conquer every obstacle.
The unfolding world of Cvstodia invites exploration, allowing players to uncover hidden secrets while also illuminating areas yet unattainable. Every boss encounter is a spectacle, and the journey is filled with challenges that echo the depth found in Silksong.
8. Have a Nice Death
Precision Meets Style
Playing Have a Nice Death felt like an exhilarating blend of the mechanics present in both Hollow Knight and Dead Cells. The game exhibits immaculate control schemes, precision in both platforming and combat, and a delightful art style that is visually captivating.
While it steps slightly away from the genre of Silksong, it remains comfortable with the same rhythmic tension in fights, emphasizing movement and positioning. The combat mechanics are just as refined, showcasing an impressive quality that rivals that of Team Cherry’s previous works.
7. Sundered
Grand Scale Adventures
In Sundered, the sense of scale is awe-inspiring, just as it is in Silksong. The velociraptor-sized bosses and colossal environments push the boundaries of traditional gameplay, steering players into the realms of both skillful navigation and combat agility.
Here, the focus on movement during encounters is paramount, offering a challenging yet exhilarating blend of platforming that may leave you frustrated yet satisfied, similar to the experience in Silksong. For those who relish demanding aerial combat and intricate boss challenges, Sundered will not disappoint.
6. Hyper Light Drifter
A Emotional Odyssey
For those who appreciate melancholic narratives wrapped in gorgeous landscapes, Hyper Light Drifter offers an unforgettable experience. The journey through a cryptic world filled with enigmatic challenges mirrors the exploration found in Silksong, albeit in a more atmospheric manner.
The engaging uncertainty of tackling unfamiliar challenges is reminiscent of the feelings evoked while navigating through Hallownest. With both titles offering meaningful journeys that unfold gradually, your perspective is likely to transform by the time you reach the end.
5. Salt and Sanctuary
Perfect for Exploration Enthusiasts
Having experienced Salt and Sanctuary prior to diving into Hollow Knight, I was struck by its backtracking mechanics and the thrill of uncovering hidden secrets. Similarly, both titles feature vast maps filled with numerous concealed areas waiting to be discovered.
With a wealth of weapons, lore, and captivating boss encounters, Salt and Sanctuary compels players to explore diligently, a feature echoed profoundly in Silksong’s design. The abundance of rewarding discoveries is immense, ensuring that players remain engaged throughout their endeavors.
4. Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights
A Succession of Greatness
Since its debut, many titles have attempted to encapsulate the charm of Hollow Knight, but few resonate as profoundly as Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights. Its poignant colors paired with profound hand-drawn aesthetics create a seamless tapestry of nostalgia and adventure.
The blending of storytelling and gameplay exemplifies a captivating journey akin to Hornet’s adventure in Silksong. The familiar mechanics alongside the richly emotional narrative portray an enchanting experience that may very well become a staple for fans of Team Cherry.
3. Animal Well
Layers of Discovery
In Animal Well, players will continuously discover new dimensions within its world, much like how we often underappreciate what lies ahead in Silksong. This engaging experience doesn’t rely on combat, but instead rewards exploration and clever puzzle-solving, continually unveiling new layers.
As both emotional and visual stimuli invoke feelings akin to Silksong, Animal Well deserves recognition for its intricately conceived journey, teeming with surprises that thrive on intellectual exploration and emotional connection. This title is undeniably a must-play for anyone undertaking an adventure post-Silksong.
2. Nine Sols
A True Heir Apparent
Nine Sols stands as a remarkable title, showcasing a mechanical finesse that rivals even the most celebrated entries in the Metroidvania genre. Its parrying system and intricate combat mechanics echo the evolution witnessed in Silksong, while its richly crafted world and compelling narrative enhance the gameplay.
As both games explore deep storytelling and a complex difficulty curve, parallels between their development and design choices are unmistakable. Nine Sols could be seen as both influenced by and a contributor to the legacy of Team Cherry, enriching the Metroidvania landscape with fresh inspiration.
1. Ring of Fire
An Unmatched Experience
Interestingly, the title that resonates most closely with Hollow Knight: Silksong may appear vastly different at first glance. However, Elden Ring aligns perfectly with the depth and ambition that characterize both games.
If you seek an adventurous journey that surprises and captivates even after dozens of hours, both of these well-crafted titles deliver richly immersive experiences that compel players to reflect on their encounters long after the journey concludes.
While other games may echo elements of Silksong, none quite match its essence like Elden Ring. If you’re hoping to dive into something that encapsulates that feeling, consider this as my heartfelt recommendation.
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