Every Hollow Knight feature that Silksong must replicate

Hollow Knight: Silksong has been in development for quite some time now, but Team Cherry remains optimistic that the highly anticipated title will still be released at some point in 2023. The first game enjoyed incredible success when it was released in February 2017, and Hollow Knight: Silksong carries a great responsibility on its shoulders. While the Metroidvania platformer is under immense pressure to deliver, Team Cherry should seize the opportunity to focus on the features and characters that made Hollow Knight so beloved.

Unfortunately, the indie team behind Hollow Knight: Silksong has kept the details of the game quite secretive. From a storytelling perspective, it's understandable that they want to keep their cards close to their chest, but it would be nice if Team Cherry were to hint at elements that may make a return. After all, anticipation for the sequel is currently at its peak as the game is set to make its debut soon.

An Item System Similar to Charms

Unfortunately, for those who enjoyed using the 45 different charms in Hollow Knight, it has been confirmed by Team Cherry that they will not be making a return in the sequel. This news was disappointing for a portion of the player base. However, fortunately, there will be an item system that functions almost identically. Hornet will be able to craft her own tools and use additional items such as thorn balls and bombs. Hopefully, the number of equipable items will be as diverse as the charm system, as charms allowed players to test out various combinations that worked best for them in different environments.

The Hollow Knight

The Hollow Knight was one of the most complex characters in the game of 2017. The story behind the characters in Hollow Knight is quite profound, especially considering how the infection corrupted the vessel and the kingdom of Hallownest. Interestingly, the Hollow Knight is not seen dying in all five endings. There are theories that they disappear into the Void alongside the Knight and are forever lost, while others believe they are still out there somewhere. If they are alive, it could be exciting to see them make an appearance, perhaps in the final boss battle, to support Hornet as they once did themselves.

Quirrel

The mystery of what happened to Quirrel after the events of Hollow Knight has occupied some players for years. The last time people associate anything with him is his weapon, firmly stuck in the floor of the Blue Lake, but he is nowhere to be seen. After his assistance in the events of the first game, some people hope that he will return in Hollow Knight: Silksong. A fitting role for him would be that of a leader, but it is equally possible that Team Cherry will simply not continue his story.

Stag Stations

In the original Hollow Knight, there are several Stag Stations scattered throughout the map. These waypoints are best suited for quickly traveling to different locations and can also help players determine their position on the map. Since the kingdom of Pharloom is said to be quite vast according to Team Cherry's statements, it could be helpful to retain Stag Stations or something similar in the game to save players a lot of time while exploring.

Grubs

Savable NPCs are a quality-of-life feature that must be present in Hollow Knight: Silksong. The Grubs, in particular, were very popular among many members of the community due to their adorable appearance. Rescuing them also rewards players with currency or rare items from the Grubfather. While some people are advocating for the return of the Grubs, there is speculation that a group of bird-like creatures called the Caravan will be their successors. Unfortunately, this information has neither been confirmed nor denied so far.

Maps

Pharloom will be a completely new experience for players, and therefore navigation is expected to bring its own challenges. The presence of maps of Pharloom will be absolutely necessary, just as it was essential to use them in Hallownest. Although there are players who have discovered all the hidden secrets of Hollow Knight and completed the game without filling out their maps, this is not ideal. Even if Cornifer, the cartographer, may not return, maps are definitely required.

Optional Boss Fights

Boss battles in the world of Hallownest are notoriously intense, although many people agree that it can be exceptionally satisfying when they finally defeat a challenging fight. In Hollow Knight, there are multiple bosses, but players actually don't have to fight all of them. Some people have noticed that there are actually far more optional bosses than required ones in the first game, as there are many ways to "trick" them or traverse areas without obtaining the rewards one would have received. Nonetheless, Hollow Knight: Silksong should retain these bosses in the game as they help players learn new mechanics and can drop special items.

The Hunter

The Hunter in Hollow Knight is one of the first NPCs to assist players after they enter Greenpath. His Bestiary proves to be extremely helpful in cataloging enemies and allies alike. At one point in the game, the Hunter mentions that he does not live in Hallownest and plans to leave. This could be a one-time statement, but it could also indicate that players will see him again in the distant kingdom of Pharloom. Perhaps he will provide Hornet with a unique journal.

It is clear that Hollow Knight: Silksong is intended to have its own identity, as the developers have decided to make it a standalone sequel instead of the originally planned DLC. Hornet's unique and fast-paced gameplay mechanics are evidence of that, as well as the fact that the game will take place in the withered lands of Pharloom. Nevertheless, it would be nice if Team Cherry continues to expand the universe of Hollow Knight or at least includes hints regarding open storylines.

Hollow Knight: Silksong is currently in development for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.