Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight: A single-player action-adventure built around exploration, platforming and combat. Ranked #27 of 98 in PC Games by our editors (6.8/10); pricing: Paid; best for exploration-focused 2D action.
At a glance
- Editor score6.8 / 10
- PricingPaid
- Best forExploration-focused 2D action
- Free planNo
- Supported OSMultiple
- Facts checked5 Oct 2026
Where it wins
- Interconnected world with mapping tools to guide exploration
- More than 130 enemies and 30 bosses to encounter
- Four free content packs are included
Where it doesn't
- Single-player only, with no online multiplayer
- Challenging combat and platforming may not suit every player
- Available on desktop operating systems only
Our verdict on Hollow Knight
Hallownest’s caverns, cities and dangerous wastes form the setting for Hollow Knight, a single-player 2D action-adventure from Team Cherry. It suits players drawn to exploration alongside side-scrolling platforming and combat: progress involves meeting characters, uncovering mysteries and gaining new skills and movement abilities. Hand-drawn art shapes the presentation, while the interconnected world gives exploration a central role rather than treating it as a break from the action.
Navigation is supported by maps, quills, compasses and pins, and charms can be equipped to grant abilities. That gives players several systems to work with as they move through the world. Combat spans more than 130 enemies and 30 bosses, so encounters are a major part of the experience. Spells, skills and movement abilities add to the options available, while Steel Soul Mode unlocks after completing the game. The game is described as challenging, making it a better fit for players who welcome demanding action than those looking for a relaxed platforming experience.
Hollow Knight is a focused desktop game rather than a multiplayer or cross-platform offering: it is single-player, has no online multiplayer, and is available for Windows, macOS and Linux through Steam. Four additional content packs are included at no extra cost, extending the package without a separate paid content tier. Choose it for interconnected exploration, boss encounters and ability-driven 2D action; look elsewhere if online play is essential or if you prefer a less challenging game. Controller support is included.
Hollow Knight pricing
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Hollow Knight fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Genre | Action |
| Single-player | Yes |
| Online multiplayer | No |
| Controller support | Yes |
| Mod support | Not verified |
| Supported OS | Multiple |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Pricing | Paid (source) |
| Website | hollowknight.com |
| Facts checked | 5 Oct 2026 |
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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