If there were ever a Metroidvania to eclipse the genre’s titular forefathers, Hollow Knight is easily befitting of the crown. It is incredible that such a game was made by such a small team. Exploration is at the heart of Hallownest, with something new to be found at every corner. The shear amount of variety in the game world is incredible, with no two areas looking even remotely similar, yet they all blend together to form a coherent world. The narrative, although it takes a backseat, is prominent enough and rich in detail. Excellent reoccurring characters and charming companions take your side throughout, with everyone demanding your attention in one way or another.

Combat in Hollow Knight is relatively simple, consisting of a single melee attack, and a small variety of ranged abilities powered by the soul power of your fallen foes. Combined with the fluid movement system which expands as you progress, the game is a joy to control. Combat is tight and responsive, with plenty of challenge to keep even the most skilled of players on their toes at certain points. The menagerie of boss encounters are incredibly unique, with a conciseness in encounter design.

The world grows as you unlock new abilities, keeping even early game areas blooming with new content to discover. While this is a prominent aspect of other titles in the genre, I have never seen it pulled off in such a concise manner. Areas that I previously had assumed were just for decor later had a purpose that became essential to game progress. Everything in Hollow Knight is designed with such intent and precision, to a degree of accuracy never thought possible.

It is a triumph in every sense of the word.