This might be the finest game I've played in a very long time, and quite possibly the best period. It excels in every area I can consider. The music is top shelf, the gameplay is smooth, fluid, and intuitive, the story is deliciously sparse and spaced, and the challenge level is just right. It oozes atmosphere and its quality simply shines.

One of my favourite things in games is retaining control in every situation, even when events are happening that you need to be paying attention to. It also has no tutorial! It will flash the button you need to press when you need to press it and that's all, and really only a few specific moments. Otherwise you're left to your own devices and the design of the level to tell you what to do, and the natural response is to do what you're suggested to do, which is exactly how a video game should teach you. By doing, not telling! Superb.

What makes Hollow Knight truly stand out however is the gameplay. Every death is very clearly your own mistake, and while at times it can be punishing, you know all you need to do is get good to overcome the obstacle. The platforming and exploring portions of the game are immersive and leave a real impact, and the boss fights, a significant highlight of the game, are expertly crafted and will leave you wanting to conquer more.

Finally, when you truly shine in marrying your power-ups, execution, and timing, you feel like you can take the world on. Like the Batman or something. A perfect feeling for a near-perfect game.

2023 EDIT: Also Silksong inmates together strong! -I

This might be the finest game I've played in a very long time, and quite possibly the best period. It excels in every area I can consider. The music is top shelf, the gameplay is smooth, fluid, and intuitive, the story is deliciously sparse and spaced, and the challenge level is just right. It oozes atmosphere and its quality simply shines. One of my favourite things in games is retaining control in every situation, even when events are happening that you need to be paying attention to. It also has no tutorial! It will flash the button you need to press when you need to press it and that's all, and really only a few specific moments. Otherwise you're left to your own devices and the design of the level to tell you what to do, and the natural response is to do what you're suggested to do, which is exactly how a video game should teach you. By doing, not telling! Superb. What makes Hollow Knight truly stand out however is the gameplay. Every death is very clearly your own mistake, and while at times it can be punishing, you know all you need to do is get good to overcome the obstacle. The platforming and exploring portions of the game are immersive and leave a real impact, and the boss fights, a significant highlight of the game, are expertly crafted and will leave you wanting to conquer more. Finally, when you truly shine in marrying your power-ups, execution, and timing, you feel like you can take the world on. Like the Batman or something. A perfect feeling for a near-perfect game. 2023 EDIT: Also Silksong inmates together strong! -I