Hollow Knight is a challenging game full of hidden mechanics, secrets, and tough bosses. If you’re new to Hallownest, these 15 unusual but essential tips will help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Let’s dive in!
1. Hot Springs Refill Your Soul Gauge
Hot springs aren’t just for relaxing — they also refill your Soul gauge. Most are located near benches, making them great for prepping before boss fights.
2. Expect to Die (It’s Normal)
You will die — a lot. Hollow Knight is built around learning through failure. When bosses show long animations, they’re likely vulnerable. Use this time to heal or charge a Nail Art instead of panicking.
3. Down Slash for Hidden Movement
- Use downward slashes on enemies or hazards to bounce upward.
- This helps you reach secret areas, collect items, or reset a double jump.
- Example: You can get to a grub in Forgotten Crossroads early this way.
4. Attack Enemies Through Floors and Walls
- Use upward slashes or spells to hit enemies through thin platforms.
- Some spells can travel through walls — useful for staying safe.
- Equip Mark of Pride to increase your nail’s reach.
5. Geo Isn’t That Important
Geo (the game’s currency) matters early on but not forever:
- Equip Gathering Swarm to auto-collect Geo.
- Sell relics to Lemm in the City of Tears for a big payout.
- Don’t stress about farming — you’ll earn plenty as you play.
6. Check for Breakable Walls
Secrets often hide behind breakable walls:
- Hit walls that look or sound different.
- If a room feels empty or suspicious, swing your nail around!
- Example: Some platforms in Crystal Peak can be rotated by hitting them.
7. Use the Dream Nail on Enemies
The Dream Nail is more than just a lore tool:
- It gives 33 Soul per hit (66 with Dream Wielder).
- Can stagger small enemies.
- Reveals thoughts — though infected creatures don’t say much.
8. Rancid Eggs Are Actually Useful
These weird items are handy:
- Take them to Confessor Jiji in Dirtmouth (requires a Simple Key).
- She can summon your Shade if it’s trapped somewhere dangerous.
9. Chain Nail Attacks with Spells
Boost your damage by chaining attacks and spells:
- Example: Charge a Great Slash, then immediately cast Vengeful Spirit.
- Great for bosses with short vulnerability windows.
10. Lifeblood Cocoons Are Boss Fight Buffs
Lifeblood cocoons grant temporary masks, but reset if you sit on a bench:
- Use them just before entering tough fights.
- You’ll save Soul for offense instead of healing.
11. Vendors Have Hidden Dialogue
Stand next to or behind vendors and the option changes to Listen:
- This reveals hidden lore and fun details you might otherwise miss.
12. Upgrade Your Nail Early
Don’t delay upgrading your nail:
- Visit the Nailsmith in the City of Tears to increase damage.
- Upgrades make the game much more manageable, especially late-game.
13. Vengeful Spirit Hits Like a Truck
The Vengeful Spirit spell deals triple the damage of a basic nail hit:
- Pair with Soul Catcher to generate more Soul.
- It’s an efficient early-game way to dominate tough enemies.
14. Soul Gauge Cracks After Death
When you die, your Soul gauge cracks, lowering max Soul until you reclaim your Shade:
- You’ll only be able to store about two-thirds of your usual Soul.
- Dying again won’t make it worse — just go retrieve your Shade.
15. Always Sit at Benches
Benches aren’t just save points:
- They restore health, update your map, and let you equip charms.
- Always sit before exploring new or dangerous areas.
Final Thoughts
Hollow Knight is tough, but these tips will give you an edge. Embrace failure, explore thoroughly, and don’t forget to enjoy the beautifully haunting world of Hallownest.
Got a tip of your own? Share it and help new players find their way through the deep! 🦗💀
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