Hollow Knight: Silksong

Worthy sequel worth the long wait with strong metroidvania gameplay but annoying locked gauntlet sections and increased farming.

Metroidvania with stunning hand-drawn art and brutal difficulty. Meaningful exploration choices.

Improves upon original with more sophisticated combat and movement. Feels like its own thing.

Masterpiece sequel surpassing impossibly high expectations. Exceptional level design, challenging combat, and sublime movement mechanics.

SwitchUp review scored 95%. Highly recommended.

A more polished, approachable, and fulfilling take on its predecessor that ranks among the best Metroidvanias. It sharpens the formula with guided exploration and clearer mission structure, a far more nimble and acrobatic protagonist in Hornet, faster combat, and a stronger, more personal narrative. The main frustration is that certain bosses can feel punishing if players don't seek out the optional crests, charms, and tools needed to build effective loadouts.