Soapbox: After Restarting My Save File, I Finally 'Get' Hollow Knight
Did Restarting Hollow Knight Reveal Its True Magic?
Jim, a writer, revisited the indie game Hollow Knight after initially abandoning it and discovered its true appeal on his second attempt. Initially, he rushed through the game focusing on objectives, but later, by starting over and exploring more thoroughly, he appreciated the intricate world-building and deep lore of the game. This newfound appreciation highlighted Hollow Knight's strengths beyond just its gameplay mechanics, revealing the emotional depth and intricate design of its setting, Hallownest.
What initially drew the writer to pick up "Hollow Knight" and what were their initial impressions of the game?
The writer decided to pick up "Hollow Knight" because it looked like a fun indie game and it was subject to a discount on the eShop. Their initial impressions were positive, as they enjoyed the movement, combat, and sense of exploration. They had a good time with the first 20 hours of gameplay, but didn't consider it a life-changing experience.
What specific gameplay mechanics does the writer mention using during their second attempt at "Hollow Knight"?
The writer mentions several specific gameplay mechanics used during their second attempt at playing "Hollow Knight." These include using pins to mark the map, which was bought from Iselda's shop in Dirtmouth. The pins were used to mark spots that were not accessible at the moment but were of interest for later exploration. Specifically, black pins were used to mark spots where the ground shook until the writer unlocked Desolate Dive, red pins signposted double jump platforms before finding the Monarch Wings, and yellow pins highlighted long gaps that were noted before obtaining the Crystal Heart1. These mechanics facilitated a more explorative and methodical approach to the game, allowing the writer to deeply engage with the game's environment and lore.