Tag: Hollow Knight

  • Hollow Knight Developers Announce Free Silksong Expansion Update

    Hollow Knight Developers Announce Free Silksong Expansion Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Expansion for Silksong: A free expansion called Sea of Sorrow will be released in 2026, featuring new areas, bosses, and tools.

    2. Increased Difficulty Expected: The Sea of Sorrow expansion may match or exceed the original game’s challenging difficulty.

    3. Hollow Knight Refresh Update: The original Hollow Knight will receive updates, including bug fixes and feature enhancements, preparing for a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.

    4. Enhanced Features: Upcoming improvements include support for ultrawide screen resolutions and options to reduce color banding.

    5. Merchandise Announcement: Silksong minifigures will be available for shipping through Fangamer in Spring 2026.

    Team Cherry, the creators behind Hollow Knight and Hollow Knight: Silksong, have shared news about two exciting updates for their popular indie Metroidvania titles. The much-anticipated Silksong will be getting a complimentary expansion called Sea of Sorrow, which promises “new areas, bosses, tools, and more,” similar to the earlier free expansions for Hollow Knight. There aren’t many specifics released about Sea of Sorrow just yet, but it is set to launch for free in 2026, and gamers can look forward to more information before then.

    Anticipation and Challenge

    Given the favorable response to the free expansions of the original Hollow Knight and the overall acclaim for both games, we’re confident that Silksong fans will be thrilled with this announcement. Nonetheless, some might feel a bit conflicted, as the “steep difficulty” that Silksong is known for is expected to be matched or possibly surpassed in Sea of Sorrows. It’s hard to imagine the expansion being easier than the core game, but considering the main game is already quite tough, players should be ready for an even bigger challenge by the time it arrives.

    Exciting News for Hollow Knight Fans

    For players who haven’t yet dived into Silksong or those who hold a strong love for the original Hollow Knight, it’s good to know that the first game is also getting some attention. A Hollow Knight Refresh Update has been revealed, alongside a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition that will bring these enhancements to the newest Nintendo console. To gear up for the Switch 2 Edition of Hollow Knight, Team Cherry will be updating all original versions of the game on current-generation platforms, “adding features and fixing bugs.” PC gamers, in particular, can already access these updates by opting into the “public-beta” branches available on Steam or GOG.

    Notable Enhancements Coming

    The anticipated improvements include support for 16:10 and 21:9 (ultrawide) screen resolutions, dithering options to minimize color banding, and more. In addition to outlining these updates, Team Cherry’s blog post hints at some upcoming Silksong minifigures that are set to start shipping through Fangamer in Spring 2026.

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  • Xiaomi Launches Updated PC Game Emulation for Local Steam Play

    Xiaomi Launches Updated PC Game Emulation for Local Steam Play

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched its own game emulation feature in the updated Game Center app, allowing users to play Windows games on their devices.
    2. The new update supports popular Steam titles like Hollow Knight, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Stardew Valley.
    3. The app includes an achievement system and cloud save synchronization for seamless gameplay across devices.
    4. Controller support has been improved, including compatibility with various controllers and new on-screen controls.
    5. Local play support for Steam games is still experimental, with potential bugs being addressed by the development team.

    PC game emulation on Android is making significant strides. Although tools like GameHub and Winlator are well-known within the gaming community, Xiaomi has introduced their own alternative. This feature for emulating Windows games can be found in the updated Game Center app by Xiaomi.

    Update Highlights

    According to Sun Cun, who is the Product Manager at Redmi, the standout improvement in this update is the capability to play games from Steam. The new version now lets users enjoy three fairly popular titles directly on their Xiaomi devices. Sun Cun points out that there’s robust support for games like Hollow Knight, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Stardew Valley.

    It’s not entirely clear if the Xiaomi Game Center app can run other Steam games natively, but as previously demonstrated by the company, their WinPlay Engine allows for the local play of any PC game. Additionally, this update brings the achievement system to life and ensures that cloud save synchronization works properly, so players can continue their games on another device without losing their progress.

    Controller Support and Options

    Sun Cun also emphasizes that the app now supports various controllers, such as the GameSir X5s, which is currently priced at $44.99 on Amazon. The updated Xiaomi Game Center app has introduced new on-screen controls as well. This virtual controller is designed to respond to both long and short presses that certain games necessitate.

    One key point to keep in mind is that Sun Cun mentioned the local play support for Steam games is still in an experimental stage. Therefore, users might encounter bugs and other issues, but the silver lining is that the Redmi Product Manager reassures that the team is actively addressing reported problems.

    Final Thoughts

    Sun Cun shared this information on Weibo (translated from Chinese). This update showcases Xiaomi’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience on their devices, even if there are a few bumps along the way.

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    Xiaomi Launches Updated PC Game Emulation for Local Steam Play

     

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  • Hollow Knight: Silksong Sales Surpass 6 Million Copies Sold

    Hollow Knight: Silksong Sales Surpass 6 Million Copies Sold

    Key Takeaways

    1. Strong Launch: Silksong has received over 80,000 Very Positive reviews on Steam and sold more than 6 million copies since its release.

    2. Top Performer Amid Competition: Despite the release of major AAA games in September, Silksong ranked among the top 5 most downloaded games.

    3. Sales Distribution: Steam accounted for 4 million downloads, while Xbox sales were significantly higher than PlayStation, boosted by Xbox Game Pass availability.

    4. Industry Context: The report highlights the competitive gaming market, showcasing both indie and AAA titles, with Silksong standing out for its quality.

    5. Sustained Interest: The strong sales and player engagement suggest that Silksong will continue to thrive in the gaming landscape.

    The eagerly awaited sequel to the indie favorite Hollow Knight has made a remarkable debut and continues to thrive. Currently, the game boasts over 80,000 Very Positive reviews on Steam, highlighting the enjoyment players are experiencing. Recent information from Alinea Analytics reveals that Silksong has sold more than 6 million copies since its release.

    Success Amidst Competition

    Alinea Analytics noted that September was packed with major AAA launches, yet Silksong still shone brightly. “While AAA titles took over the download charts in September, the long anticipation for Silksong secured its place in the top 5. The sequel to Hollow Knight quickly gathered over 6 million downloads in just the last three weeks of the month.”

    This indicates that despite the release of big-name games like Borderlands 4 and Dying Light: The Beast, Silksong successfully maintained its position and became one of the top 5 most downloaded games of September. For a small indie company such as Team Cherry, this is a significant milestone.

    Sales Breakdown

    The report also provided insights into the sources of these sales. Steam was responsible for 4 million downloads, making it the leading platform for Silksong. The remaining sales came from console platforms, with Xbox’s numbers tripling those of PlayStation, largely due to the game’s availability on Xbox Game Pass.

    Notably, the report didn’t limit itself to Silksong, as it also showcased the performance of other prominent games. Skate has now exceeded 13.9 million copies sold, establishing itself as one of the top sports titles. EA FC 26 remains a market leader with over 9 million copies sold, while NBA 2K26 is also performing well, reaching 3.5 million copies. Borderlands 4 follows closely, having sold 3.1 million copies to date.

    Market Insights

    Alinea Analytics’ report illustrates the competitive landscape of the gaming industry, showcasing both indie and AAA titles. Silksong’s impressive performance amidst such fierce competition is a testament to its quality and the dedication of Team Cherry. The continued interest and sales figures suggest that this sequel is here to stay, captivating a wide range of players.

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  • Hollow Knight: Silksong Developers Discuss Game’s Difficulty Level

    Hollow Knight: Silksong Developers Discuss Game’s Difficulty Level

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sales Success: Hollow Knight: Silksong sold 3.2 million copies on Steam in less than two weeks and earned $50 million in revenue, attracting over 5 million players across all platforms.

    2. Difficulty Concerns: Many players, including veterans of the original game, find Silksong too difficult, citing challenging bosses and precise platforming sections.

    3. Developer Acknowledgment: Team Cherry co-directors Ari Gibson and William Pellen recognized the game’s steep difficulty curve and believe it enhances player choice rather than hinders enjoyment.

    4. Exploration and Choices: The game encourages exploration, offering hidden upgrades and alternate paths that help players navigate challenges, allowing for diverse gameplay experiences.

    5. Game Mechanics: Silksong features new mechanics where enemies require different strategies to defeat, maintaining a challenging yet engaging gameplay style, with mods available for a more manageable experience.

    Team Cherry’s Hollow Knight: Silksong has exceeded expectations, selling 3.2 million copies on Steam in less than two weeks, earning $50 million in revenue, and gathering over 5 million players across all platforms. However, despite the ongoing excitement surrounding Silksong, one major complaint has surfaced in nearly every review, thread, and comment: the game is too hard.

    Feedback from Players

    This issue isn’t limited to newcomers; even experienced players of the original Hollow Knight have expressed concerns about the game’s challenging difficulty, tough bosses, and precise platforming sections. In response, some modders have stepped in to help ease the pain by reducing the damage taken from enemies.

    Team Cherry Responds

    Ari Gibson and William Pellen, co-directors at Team Cherry, have acknowledged these online complaints and discussed the game’s “steep difficulty curve” during a panel at the Australian Center for the Moving Image’s Game Worlds exhibition in Melbourne last weekend, as reported by Dexerto. They emphasized that the difficulty of Silksong is not a hindrance but a vital part of the game’s design that enhances player choice.

    Gibson shared insights with exhibition co-creator Jini Maxwell, stating, “Silksong has its moments of high difficulty, but offering players a greater sense of freedom in the game means they constantly have options about where to go and what to do.”

    Exploration and Choices

    This philosophy mirrors that of the original Hollow Knight, but takes it to the next level, as Silksong’s vast kingdom of Pharloom is filled with hidden upgrades, alternate paths, and routes that can help players navigate challenges more easily.

    Gibson elaborated, “The key for us is to allow players to explore off the main path. One player might stick to the direct route to the end, while another might choose to wander off and discover all the secrets and different pathways.”

    In essence, Silksong has been crafted with alternatives to every frustrating barrier; players just need to uncover them. Gibson also noted, “Our aim is to stop players from getting stuck on a specific challenge. There are ways to lessen the difficulty through exploration, learning, or even bypassing the challenge altogether.”

    Game Mechanics Explained

    Pellen provided further insight into the game’s mechanics during the ACMI discussion, mentioning, “The basic ant warrior shares the same move set as the original Hornet boss. Unlike the Knight’s foes, Hornet’s enemies needed more strategies to catch her when she tries to evade.”

    Silksong is on a promising path to surpass the original Hollow Knight’s lifetime sales of 15 million. For gamers seeking a more manageable experience, mods are already available that adjust enemy AI and platforming challenges.

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  • GameSir Android Emulator Update: Hollow Knight Silksong Optimized

    GameSir Android Emulator Update: Hollow Knight Silksong Optimized

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameHub 5.0 fully optimizes Hollow Knight: Silksong for mobile gamers.
    2. The update includes complete support for Steam, allowing cloud saves and online gaming.
    3. Users may experience syncing issues with Steam, but switching out of “lightweight” mode can help.
    4. Enhanced controller experience with immersive vibrations and adaptive triggers is introduced.
    5. GameHub 5.0 features a new “native rendering mode” for improved frame rates and smoother gameplay.

    GameSir has rolled out a new update for its Windows game emulator for Android, called GameHub, now at version 5.0. A standout feature of this update is its full optimization for Hollow Knight: Silksong, enabling mobile gamers to enjoy this highly-rated, freshly launched action-adventure title on their smartphones.

    Additional Enhancements

    This update isn’t just about Hollow Knight. GameHub version 5.0 also brings complete support for Steam, giving users the ability to access cloud saves and online gaming through the Windows emulator for Android. This means that players can easily keep their game progress consistent across different devices, which is a significant advantage for those who switch between them. Some initial users have mentioned that their achievements and playtime are also syncing correctly after this update.

    Syncing Issues and Solutions

    It’s important to highlight that the Steam sync feature may not always work perfectly right away in certain cases. However, some users on Reddit recommend switching Steam’s client out of “lightweight” mode for a better experience overall.

    Improved Controller Experience

    The latest update also promises an enhanced controller experience (GameSir G8 Plus currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon). It introduces support for “immersive” vibrations and adaptive triggers. GameSir emphasizes that GameHub 5.0 incorporates a new “native rendering mode,” which is claimed to provide consistent frame rates, smoother gameplay, and reduced latency.

    While GameSir hasn’t shared any specific before-and-after performance metrics, numerous users have observed a noticeable increase in performance. For instance, one user on r/EmulationOnAndroid noted a nearly 2x FPS boost in GTA V. Naturally, the emulation efficiency is largely influenced by the phone’s hardware, but GameHub is widely recognized for its stable performance on most devices, including those equipped with a Mali GPU.

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    GameSir Android Emulator Update: Hollow Knight Silksong Optimized

     

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  • Hollow Knight Hits Record Player Count on Steam After Silksong Reveal

    Hollow Knight Hits Record Player Count on Steam After Silksong Reveal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hollow Knight set a new record with 23,840 concurrent players on Steam on August 22, 2025, following the announcement of its sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong.

    2. Hollow Knight: Silksong will be released on September 4, 2025, for multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, with day-one access on Xbox Game Pass.

    3. The game surpassed its previous player record of 20,300, highlighting a strong resurgence for the indie title after nearly eight years, supported by its “Overwhelmingly Positive” user score of 97%.

    4. A demo showcased at Gamescom and a new trailer featuring Hornet and gameplay improvements have generated significant excitement, dubbed “Silksanity,” after a long wait since the sequel was first announced in 2019.

    5. Hollow Knight: Silksong is currently the most wishlisted game on Steam, with 4.8 million wishlists, indicating strong anticipation for its launch and potential high sales, following the success of the original game which sold 15 million copies.

    The 2017 indie hit Hollow Knight has set a new record for concurrent players on Steam, reaching 23,840 players on August 22, 2025. This milestone comes after the highly anticipated announcement of its sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong.

    Excitement Builds After Gamescom

    This spike in players occurred shortly after Team Cherry showcased Hollow Knight: Silksong during the Gamescom Opening Night Live on August 19, where they confirmed the game’s global release date of September 4, 2025. Players can expect to see Hollow Knight: Silksong launched on platforms like PC, Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, with day-one access available on Xbox Game Pass.

    A Remarkable Comeback

    The new player record surpasses the previous high of 20,300 players from May 2022, marking a significant comeback for an indie game that has been around for nearly eight years. The original game has an impressive user score of 97 percent, derived from 418,758 reviews, and is recognized with an “Overwhelmingly Positive” status.

    It’s likely that many players returned to the original game after Team Cherry released a two-minute trailer, which features new gameplay elements starring Hornet, who will take on 200 new enemies and 40 unique bosses. The trailer has received close to 4 million views on YouTube, with 458,000 thumbs up.

    Gamescom Demo Sparks Enthusiasm

    A playable demo showcased at Gamescom, along with the trailer, has intensified what fans have dubbed “Silksanity,” concluding a long six-year wait since the sequel’s announcement in 2019.

    The demo includes areas like Deep Rocks and Moss Grotto, and early testers have commended the game’s improved combat and Hornet’s agile acrobatics, all while keeping the core Metroidvania gameplay intact from the original.

    Wishlists on the Rise

    Currently, Hollow Knight: Silksong holds the title for the most wishlisted game on Steam, with a staggering 4.8 million wishlists, primarily from users in the U.S. and China, followed by players in Russia, Germany, Japan, and the U.K.

    In second place for wishlists is Battlefield 6, along with titles like ARC Raiders, Dying Light: The Beast, and Borderlands 4.

    While having a wishlist doesn’t necessarily mean immediate sales, it is anticipated that Hollow Knight: Silksong could sell millions of copies at launch, especially considering the first Hollow Knight sold 15 million copies across all platforms throughout its lifetime. Even with the release date approaching, Team Cherry has not disclosed a specific price, though fans are guessing it may be around $24.99.

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  • Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Uncertain for Kickstarter Backers

    Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Uncertain for Kickstarter Backers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Team Cherry will not release review copies of Hollow Knight: Silksong until September 4th, prioritizing backers’ experiences first.
    2. Silksong was originally a reward for backers of the original Hollow Knight, linked to a stretch goal rather than a new Kickstarter campaign.
    3. Backers who contributed at least $10 AUD will receive a game code for their chosen platform, though the exact timing is still unclear.
    4. The lack of early reviews may cause concern for potential buyers, but there is significant media buzz and anticipation for the game.
    5. A playable demo of Silksong will be showcased at Gamescom 2025, receiving positive feedback from testers.

    Kickstarter backers have been waiting what feels like forever for the release date of Hollow Knight: Silksong. To show appreciation for their support, Team Cherry won’t be giving out review copies until September 4th. Instead, the backers will get the chance to be among the first to experience this Metroidvania game. Jason Schreier from Bloomberg announced the news about Silksong on social media.

    Surprising Connections

    It might seem odd that after the success of Hollow Knight, Silksong is linked to Kickstarter. When the 2,158 backers started pledging their support in 2014, they had no clue about the excitement that would ensue. Silksong wasn’t part of a new campaign; rather, it was a reward for hitting the $56,000 stretch goal for the original game, which was meant for DLC.

    Key Details for Donors

    The exact timing of when backers will get Hollow Knight: Silksong is still unknown, but the developers have finally updated their supporters after six long years. As promised, anyone who contributed at least $10 AUD will be receiving a code for the game on the platform they chose. These players can look forward to hearing from Team Cherry soon regarding further information.

    Concerns Over Reviews

    For some potential buyers, the absence of early Silksong reviews might raise concerns. It’s a common practice for publishers to provide advanced copies to websites and magazines. However, there has been plenty of media buzz leading up to the September 4th Hollow Knight: Silksong release. Additionally, Gamescom 2025 will showcase a playable demo that has received positive feedback from testers.

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    Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Uncertain for Kickstarter Backers

     

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  • Steam’s Most Requested Game May Arrive Sooner Than Expected

    Steam’s Most Requested Game May Arrive Sooner Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Overview: Hollow Knight is a 2D action-adventure game featuring a silent beetle warrior exploring the fallen kingdom of Hallownest, praised for its exploration and challenging gameplay.

    2. Sequel Features: In Hollow Knight: Silksong, players control Hornet, who has acrobatic skills and uses silk for abilities, with new quests, crafting options, challenging bosses, and over 150 new enemies.

    3. Development Delays: Silksong was announced in February 2019 and delayed due to the project’s growth, with Team Cherry reassuring fans that development is ongoing.

    4. Speculated Release Date: Industry insiders suggest a potential release date between June 2025 and 2026, but no official confirmation from Team Cherry has been made.

    5. Community Anticipation: Hollow Knight: Silksong is the second most wishlisted title on Steam, reflecting high expectations and excitement from the gaming community.

    Hollow Knight is a 2D action-adventure game where players take control of a small beetle warrior who is silent while exploring the fallen kingdom called Hallownest. This indie success combines exploration, atmospheric design, and challenging gameplay, resulting in over 350,000 reviews on Steam, with a remarkable 97% positive feedback since its launch in February 2017. Therefore, it’s easy to see why the sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong, has become the second most wishlisted title on Steam.

    The Role of Hornet

    In Silksong, players assume the role of Hornet, a nimble warrior known for her acrobatic skills, swift attacks, and a unique mechanic based on silk. Unlike in the first game, where souls were essential for healing and abilities, Silksong replaces those with silk. The journey shifts from the dark areas of Hallownest to the colorful kingdom of Pharloom. The sequel brings a new quest system, enhanced crafting options for tools and traps, challenging boss fights, and more than 150 fresh enemies to face.

    Delays and Expectations

    Silksong was first announced in February 2019, initially scheduled for release in the first half of 2023. However, Matthew Griffin, who manages marketing and publishing for Team Cherry, stated that the game evolved into a larger and more complicated project than anticipated, causing delays.

    Since then, there has been little news about Silksong, leading some fans to worry that the game might never be released. Yet, earlier this year, Team Cherry reassured fans that work on the game continues. On March 18, Silksong was referenced in an Xbox article that listed future titles. Other games mentioned, such as Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Descenders Next, are expected to launch in April, while FBC: Firebreak is anticipated in May. Based on this trend, gaming insider eXtas1s believes that Hollow Knight: Silksong might be released in June.

    Speculation on Release Date

    eXtas1s is respected in the gaming community, with many of his previous leaks turning out to be accurate. Furthermore, Bloomberg journalist Jason Schreier and other sources have suggested that Silksong is likely to be released in 2025. However, until Team Cherry makes an official statement, this is merely speculation. A release in 2026 is still a possibility.

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