I don't have much to say about this game that has't already been said. The beautiful hand drawn worlds, the tight platforming and amazing combats, the solid controls, the lovely characters and the grat way of developing the story and the world. This game is simply one of my favorites, and has been adding new content every now and then, surprising with new events and things to do.
This game is really one that deserves the hours exploring the amazing and hostile environments, always prepared to throw a challenge (or two) right for you to overcome it (and oh boy, it feels really good to do so)
Hollow Knight is probably the most beautiful game I've played in years, both in terms of art and sound design. It's dripping with atmosphere and exploration is an absolute joy.
However, it's hamstrung by some utterly amateurish high-level design choices that frequently took me out of the game and made me question whether it was really worth forcing myself through it. UItimately, I'm glad that I did, but it doesn't change the fact that those 4's and 5's are utterly undeserved and are probably from people writing a review fresh after beating the game, or are from people that are only a few hours in.
The map is one of the worst I've seen in any game of this type, and when you have environments as expansive as HK's (much moreso than in Axiom Verge, Guacamelee, or any of the other classic metroivanias), it's a serious issue. Having to use a charm slot (what pass as your character upgrades, since there's no equipment or anything like that - HK is an excessively simple game) just to have a functional compass is one of the most asinine desigtn choices I've ever seen in a metroidvania, and it's just the tip of the iceberg.
I suppose HK's biggest sin is that it doesn't really do anything interesting with its gameplay. It's simplistic, to an excessive degree, and that's exhibited in its simplistic combat (which the game focuses heavily on - it leans more towards your Castlevanias than your Metroids.) You get one weapon, with one set of animations, and that's it. There are no defense or attack stats you track, or anything like that. That's fine for those "casual art house" metroidvanias that were popular in recent years (like Dust and Ori), but HK clearly wants to be a "Dark Souls tough" experience without any of the elements that resulted in people replaying those games dozens of times.
For $15 it's still a pretty good deal if you like Metroidvanias, but don't believe those 5 star ratings - they're a complete crock. This game's a 3.5 at best.
absolutely perfect as a metroid like. Music, design , story, maniability and longevity are way beyond what i was expecting for 15$. If you like this type of game, hesitate no more
Hollow knight has everything I could possibly ask from a game:
Smooth gameplay, both in platforming and in combat. I honestly can't say I died at any point I didn't deserve to.
Interesting skill based system and items. While there are some skills combinations and builds that offer an advantage, combat system largely lets the player adjust it to his own style. You are encouraged to try different combinations of things, and some niche builds can actually offer an advantage for some of the harder bosses.
Challenging. Even finishing the game without any optional bosses or challenges can become difficult and if you really want a challenge this game WILL offer it to you.
Story. The world that has been created for this game is one of my favourite parts about it. There are easter eggs and things to notice all over the place and the characters are memorable and interesting.
Soundtrack. Probably the best soundtrack in any game I have played during the last decade.
Everything in the Game is designed very lovely and cute. I love the controls and atmosphere.
The story is emotional and dark. (I played ~10 hours and cleared for now 4 Levels as far as I came through)
I wondered aboud the challenge in the game. If I had not played Super Meatboy before I would say it is too heavy to finish it.
You will die a lot of times and only hardcore reflexes and practisses will make you able too go through. (I know my english is bad but I hope you understand what I mean ^^)
I am on it.
my target is too clear the Game by 100% and that will take many many hours.
Keep in mind:
- It is possible, but not for everyone!
- Extrem nice and precise gameplay.
- Don't waste your Controler!
- If you lose your controle by frustration, this is no Game for you.
- Think aboud the work and Artwork (includues the wounderful soundtrack)
My opinion:
I am flashed! I have a Game that is not playd in a few hours! Nice work done! Thank you for that game *-*!
