Do you need to play Hollow Knight before Silksong?

After six years of waiting, Hollow Knight: Silksong has finally been released, and naturally, a lot of players are asking if they need to play the original before diving in. The short answer is no, as Team Cherry built Silksong as a fully standalone adventure, meaning newcomers can jump straight into Hornet’s story without worrying about prior knowledge. The game is designed to naturally introduce fresh players to its world while offering plenty of depth for returning fans.

That said, there are benefits to playing the first Hollow Knight. While Silksong takes place in Pharloom, a new kingdom with unique enemies, lore, and over 40 challenging bosses, the original game provides extra context for Hornet’s character and her role in the series’ universe. For veterans, this makes the journey feel richer, but it’s by no means required. Whether you’re completely new or a longtime fan, Silksong offers a fresh, self-contained experience that makes it accessible to everyone.

Here’s everything you need to know about Silksong’s connection with the original Hollow Knight.

Hollow Knight Silksong’s connection to the franchise

Hollow Knight: Silksong shifts the spotlight to Hornet as the new protagonist, taking players to an entirely different kingdom filled with its own characters, lore, and mysteries. While there are connections to the original Hollow Knight, Team Cherry has designed Silksong so that anyone can jump in without needing to have explored Hallownest first. The game tells its story clearly, ensuring new players can follow Hornet’s journey without confusion.

For those who did play the original, however, Silksong offers plenty of subtle nods that make the experience richer. Certain references, hidden dialogue, and character moments carry extra meaning if you already know Hornet’s past. That said, these details are bonuses rather than essentials—the game itself explains motivations and story beats in a way that feels complete on its own.

Silksong also introduces entirely new gameplay mechanics, enemies, and tools, so you won’t miss out mechanically if you skip Hollow Knight. Learning Hornet’s abilities is a fresh challenge for everyone, whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer. While playing Hollow Knight first can add context and appreciation for the lore, it’s not a requirement. Silksong is built as a standalone adventure that’s accessible, rewarding, and ready to be enjoyed by anyone eager to experience Hornet’s journey.

For more on Hollow Knight: Silksong, check out our guide on all the achievements and how to get them.