The long-anticipated sequel to Hollow Knight, Silksong, is predicted to finally release in 2025 and achieve massive commercial success, according to industry insider Jason Schreier. While this remains a prediction, Schreier’s track record lends weight to this hopeful forecast. In a recent Bloomberg article, he stated his belief that Silksong “will finally come out this year — and it will sell millions of copies.” This projection might seem ambitious, but the game’s substantial social media presence suggests a significant built-in audience eagerly awaiting its launch.
Alt: Screenshot from the Hollow Knight: Silksong trailer showcasing the protagonist, Hornet, in action. The vibrant visuals and detailed environment hint at the game’s Metroidvania gameplay.
A Long-Awaited Sequel
For those unfamiliar with the saga, Hollow Knight: Silksong was announced back in 2019. A gameplay trailer followed in 2022, fueling expectations of a 2023 release. However, Team Cherry has remained largely silent since then, leaving fans and the industry in anticipation. The ensuing speculation, coupled with the original game’s success, has created a media frenzy unusual for an indie Metroidvania title.
The Legacy of Hollow Knight
The original Hollow Knight captivated audiences upon its release in February 2017. Critics and players alike praised its strategic depth, captivating art style, and richly detailed world that rewarded exploration. While the Metroidvania genre was already well-populated, Hollow Knight distinguished itself and continues to maintain a dedicated player base. Even seven years later, it averages over 7,000 players weekly on Steam alone, not accounting for console releases, indicating a likely player count well over 10,000 per week.
Alt: Hornet, the protagonist of Hollow Knight: Silksong, navigating a complex environment filled with platforms and intricate details, highlighting the game’s challenging platforming elements.
The Development Puzzle
Silksong’s extended development cycle might seem puzzling, especially given the strong foundation laid by its predecessor. In an industry saturated with annual releases and massive franchises, Hollow Knight’s development stands apart. This distinction is also a contributing factor to the lengthy development timeline. Unlike large studios, Team Cherry consists of only three developers. While their games may not be as vast as those from Bethesda or Rockstar, every design choice requires meticulous attention. This handcrafted approach, evident in the original Hollow Knight, contributed significantly to its success, and the team strives to replicate and even surpass this quality in Silksong.
The Wait Continues
While the wait for Silksong may be frustrating, the dedication to quality and the legacy of the original game suggest that patience will be rewarded. If the goal is to surpass the original, then trusting the process is crucial.
Conclusion
The anticipation surrounding Hollow Knight: Silksong remains high. With predictions of a 2025 release and significant sales potential, the gaming community eagerly awaits Team Cherry’s next masterpiece. While the wait continues, the hope is that the meticulous development process will result in a game that lives up to, and perhaps even exceeds, the high bar set by its predecessor.
