Hollow Knight is an action-driven platform adventure set within a decaying insect kingdom. Venture through winding caverns, ruined cities, and neglected highways filled with corrupted creatures and mysterious allies. Reveal hidden lore, challenge colossal bosses, and shape your journey with distinctive abilities and a variety of charms. Hand-drawn artwork, a haunting score, and a living, interconnected world draw players into a deep 2D experience. Descend into the depths and claim your fate.
CORE GAMEPLAY MECHANICS
Combat in Hollow Knight rewards precise timing and thoughtful movement. Players wield the Nail to cut through foes while avoiding damage with well-timed dashes and jumps. Exploration pays off: secret routes, valuables, and upgrades are scattered across Hallownest. Boss battles emphasize pattern reading and adaptability, pushing players to refine techniques and evolve their approach on each attempt. Spells and Soul-based abilities broaden tactical options, and upgrades unlock new movement and offensive capabilities.
Exploration also spans environmental puzzles and interactions with unique characters. Gaining abilities like double jump, dash, and wall climb opens previously inaccessible areas and reveals additional secrets. Equipping charms lets you tailor your combat style—boosting strengths or covering weaknesses. The interconnected map design encourages backtracking, with new skills uncovering treasures and story details that were once out of reach.
Essential Controls
- Arrow Keys: Move horizontally and vertically
- Z: Jump to traverse platforms and avoid hazards
- X: Attack with the Nail
- C: Dash to evade threats or close distances
- S: Super Dash for extended movement bursts
- A: Focus or teleport using Dreamgate
- D: Use the Dream Nail or place a Dreamgate
- E: Quick-cast spells and abilities
MORE ULTIMATE ACTION BATTLES
- Stick It to the Stickman
- Ragdoll Hit
- Drunken Boxing: Ultimate