Game reviews / Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight
2017 · Windows · macOS · Linux · Nintendo Switch · Wii U · PlayStation 4 · Xbox One · Metroidvania · Action · Platformer · Adventure
3 scored sources · 2 countries contributing scores
Review consensus
Critics widely regard Hollow Knight as an exceptional Metroidvania built around discovery, precision, and atmosphere. Hallownest’s enormous interconnected map rewards curiosity with hidden routes, upgrades, optional areas, and environmental storytelling, while its hand-drawn art, melancholy music, and memorable bug characters give the world unusual personality. Combat is simple but demanding, relying on timing, positioning, enemy patterns, and flexible Charm loadouts. The principal drawbacks are the initially opaque map system, substantial backtracking, limited combat moveset variety, and punishing death mechanics. Even so, the generous content package and consistently strong world design make it a modern genre classic.
Limited geographic coverage. Treat this score as an early indication.
Last researched: 2026-09-18
Pros
- Expansive, interconnected world packed with secrets and optional content
- Precise, challenging combat with strong enemy and boss design
- Distinctive hand-drawn art, atmospheric music, and environmental storytelling
- Excellent value through substantial free post-launch content
Cons
- Map and navigation systems can be confusing early on
- Backtracking and long traversal routes may become tedious
- Punishing deaths can cause lost currency and repeated travel
- Core combat moveset changes relatively little over the campaign
Review sources
3 sources found across 2 countries. This is not exhaustive worldwide coverage.
- Nintendo Life · United Kingdom · 90/100
- PC Gamer · United Kingdom · 92/100
- GameSpot · United States · 90/100