Few games have captivated players quite like Hollow Knight. With its hauntingly beautiful world, tight combat, and deep lore, it stands as a modern classic. As anticipation builds for Hollow Knight: Silksong, both newcomers and returning players have questions about the original and its sequel. This guide compiles essential advice, fixes for common technical hiccups, and answers to frequently asked questions, ensuring your journey through Hallownest, and eventually Pharloom, is as smooth as possible.
Revisiting Hallownest: Tips for Returning Players
It’s common to step away from a game as involved as Hollow Knight. When you return, the vast map can feel overwhelming. Focus on reacquainting yourself with the controls in a safe area like Dirtmouth. Check your inventory and map to recall where you were. Don’t hesitate to revisit earlier areas to regain your combat rhythm. If you’re completely lost, consider starting a new save file to experience the early game afresh while keeping your old save.
As for game length, Hollow Knight typically takes 25-30 hours for the main story, with completionist runs pushing 50+ hours. Silksong is expected to be comparable, though Team Cherry has hinted at it being even larger. So prepare for another epic journey.
Managing Your Save Files
Hollow Knight’s save system is straightforward but lacks built-in duplication. To duplicate a save on PC, locate the save file directory (on Windows: %USERPROFILE%AppDataLocalLowTeam CherryHollow Knight). Copy the .dat file (e.g., user1.dat) and rename it to a higher number like user2.dat; it will appear as a new slot in-game. Always back up files before experimenting.
Cross-platform save transfers between Linux and Windows are possible. The save format is identical. On Linux, saves are typically in ~/.config/unity3d/Team Cherry/Hollow Knight. Copy the .dat files to the corresponding Windows location to sync progress. Note that modded saves may cause issues.
Controller Setup and Troubleshooting
The 8BitDo Ultimate Wireless Controller is popular for its versatility, but some users encounter issues in Hollow Knight. Ensure the controller is in XInput mode (hold Start + X for 2 seconds). If it still misbehaves, try disabling Steam Input for the game: right-click Hollow Knight in Steam, select Properties > Controller, and choose “Disable Steam Input”. Reconnecting the dongle or using a wired connection can also resolve connectivity drops.
Other controllers? Generally, any XInput-compatible controller works out of the box. For direct input devices, you can configure via Steam’s controller settings.
Performance and Display Fixes
On Pop!_OS, lag spikes can mar the experience. First, update graphics drivers and ensure you’re using the latest Proton version via Steam Play. Try adding “PROTON_NO_ESYNC=1” or “PROTON_NO_FSYNC=1” as launch options. Disabling desktop effects or compositing can also help. If still laggy, lower in-game resolution or graphics settings, though Hollow Knight isn’t demanding.
On Steam Deck, some see black bars despite the Verified status. This is due to the game’s fixed 16:9 aspect ratio. The Deck’s 16:10 screen leads to letterboxing. To fill the screen, go to the game’s Properties > General > Game Resolution and set it to 1280×800. Then in-game, select Fullscreen. Some UI elements may scale oddly, but it’s a trade-off for a full display.
Modding Hollow Knight: A Beginner’s Guide
Modding can rejuvenate the game. The Scarab Mod Launcher makes it easy. On Steam Deck, switch to Desktop Mode, download Scarab from its GitHub, and run the AppImage. Point it to your Hollow Knight installation (usually /home/deck/.local/share/Steam/steamapps/common/Hollow Knight). Install mods with a click. Ensure your game is unmodded before installing to avoid conflicts.
For custom audio, like extracting Shakra’s voice for notifications, you’ll need to dive into game assets. Use a tool like AssetStudio to open Hollow Knight’s sharedassets files. Sound effects are typically in AudioClip form. Export them, then convert using Audacity or ffmpeg. This is for personal use only; respect copyrights.
Hollow Knight vs. Terraria: A Difficulty Comparison
Terraria may seem more approachable with its 2D sandbox, but it’s not inherently easier. Both games demand precision and pattern recognition. Hollow Knight is a metroidvania with punishing bosses and tight platforming; Terraria’s challenge scales with boss encounters and events, plus crafting depth. Beginners might find Hollow Knight’s fixed path less overwhelming than Terraria’s open-ended progression. If you’re new to either, start with Hollow Knight for its linearity and clear feedback.
Playing Hollow Knight on Android
There’s no official Android port, but unofficial methods exist. The most reliable is using a Nintendo Switch emulator like Skyline or Yuzu (though performance varies). Alternatively, game streaming via Steam Link or GeForce Now lets you play the PC version on mobile. No native APK offers the full experience without significant bugs, so beware of unofficial ports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I duplicate my save file for Hollow Knight: Silksong?
Yes, the method will likely be the same as Hollow Knight. Locate the save file directory (the exact path for Silksong is not yet known because the game hasn’t been released), copy the .dat file, and rename it to an unused slot number. This creates a duplicate for experimenting with different playstyles.
How long is Silksong compared to Hollow Knight?
Silksong is expected to be at least as long as Hollow Knight, if not longer. Team Cherry has suggested it will be a bigger game, so estimate 25-30 hours for the main story, with completionist runs taking 50+ hours.
Issues with 8BitDo Ultimate Wireless Controller in Hollow Knight: Silksong
The same troubleshooting steps apply: switch to XInput mode, disable Steam Input, or use a wired connection. Silksong will likely support the same controller protocols.
Is Terraria easier or harder than Hollow Knight? Wondering if it’s beginner-friendly.
Neither is definitively easier; they offer different kinds of difficulty. Hollow Knight demands precise combat and platforming, while Terraria challenges players with escalating boss fights and open-ended exploration. Beginners may find Hollow Knight’s structure more guiding.
Can I transfer save files between Linux and Windows for Hollow Knight: Silksong?
Absolutely. The save files are cross-platform compatible. Simply copy the .dat files from the Linux save location (likely similar to Hollow Knight’s ~/.config/unity3d/Team Cherry/Hollow Knight) to the Windows equivalent, and vice versa.
How can I install Scarab to mod Hollow Knight on Steam Deck?
Switch to Desktop Mode, download Scarab from its official GitHub, and run the AppImage. Point it to the Hollow Knight install directory (usually under /home/deck/.local/share/Steam/steamapps/common/Hollow Knight) and install mods from the interface.
Need help extracting Shakra’s voice for notifications in Hollow Knight: Silksong.
Use AssetStudio to open the game’s sharedassets files, locate the AudioClip for Shakra, export it, and convert with Audacity. This process should be similar in Silksong, assuming the same engine.
Experiencing lag with Hollow Knight on Pop!_OS – Need help!
Update your graphics drivers, use the latest Proton version, and set launch options like “PROTON_NO_ESYNC=1”. Disabling compositing and lowering in-game settings can also mitigate lag.
Why does Hollow Knight have black bars on the Steam Deck despite being verified?
The game is designed for 16:9 aspect ratio, while the Deck’s screen is 16:10. To remove the bars, set the resolution to 1280×800 in the game’s Steam properties, then enable Fullscreen.
How to jump back into Hollow Knight after a break?
Ease in by practicing in a safe area, review your map and inventory, and consider starting a new save if you feel lost. The game’s progression is forgiving once you reacquaint yourself.
Looking for the best Hollow Knight Android port.
No official port exists. The best experience comes from streaming via Steam Link or using a Switch emulator, though emulation may have performance issues.
