Top 2D Games for Hollow Knight Fans to Play While Waiting for Silksong in 2026

The shadow cast by Team Cherry's 2017 masterpiece, Hollow Knight, over the indie scene remains long and deep. 🤯 Blending the atmospheric exploration of Metroidvanias, the character progression of RPGs, and the punishing, precise combat of Soulslikes, it created a holistic experience that has left fans yearning for more for nearly a decade. With its sequel, Silksong, still in development after over five years of anticipation, the wait can feel endless. But fear not, fellow travelers of Hallownest! The world of 2D gaming is rich with adventures that capture the spirit, challenge, and beauty of Hollow Knight. Let's dive into the best games to fill the void until Silksong finally arrives.

🌳 Ori Series: A Masterclass in Platforming & Emotion

Before Moon Studios ventured into the ARPG realm with No Rest for the Wicked, they crafted the breathtaking Ori series. Initially Xbox exclusives, Ori and the Blind Forest and its sequel, Will of the Wisps, are now widely accessible and utterly fantastic.

Think Hollow Knight's dream-like, painterly world, but dialed up to eleven. The Ori games use contrast and color to create some of the most visually stunning and emotionally resonant environments in gaming. While not as lore-heavy, they tell powerful stories through silent, environmental storytelling. The focus here is on sublime platforming and clever puzzle-solving. Combat takes a backseat (though it's expanded in the sequel), making this the perfect pick for players who adored Hollow Knight's exploration and atmosphere over its brutal fights. Ready for a journey that will tug at your heartstrings?

⛪ Blasphemous Series: For the Combat-Connoisseurs

If you live for Hollow Knight's tough-as-nails, Souls-inspired combat, then Blasphemous is your holy grail. Alongside Salt and Sanctuary, this series proudly wears its FromSoftware influence, earning its reputation as the 2D Soulslike. But The Game Kitchen carved out a uniquely grim identity steeped in religious horror and stunning pixel art.

You play as the Penitent One, traversing cursed kingdoms filled with intense, methodical combat and challenging platforming. Every enemy encounter demands your full attention. While the first game's Metroidvania elements were a bit middling, the sequel, Blasphemous 2, improves dramatically with new weapons that expand both combat depth and exploration. The original is still worth playing for its atmosphere, but the sequel is the more complete package. Do you have the faith to endure the penance?

⚔️ Dead Cells: The Roguelike Metroidvania Hybrid

Few indie games rival Hollow Knight in popularity and quality, but Dead Cells is a titan in its own right. Now, here's the twist: it's a roguelike. Each death sends you back to the beginning, with procedurally generated levels ensuring no two runs are alike. Yet, it cleverly incorporates permanent Metroidvania-style upgrades that slowly unlock new paths.

The real star is the combat. It's fast, fluid, punchy, and incredibly satisfying. Unlocking new weapons, skills, and mutations constantly evolves the gameplay. Just like Hollow Knight, it can feel brutally difficult at first, demanding mastery of its mechanics. But the "one more run" addictiveness offers near-infinite replayability. It's the perfect game for when you want Hollow Knight's tight combat loop in a more bite-sized, ever-changing format.

🔥 Why Dead Cells Fans Will Love It:

• Precise, Responsive Combat: Mastery is deeply rewarding.

• High Challenge Curve: The difficulty is punishing but fair.

• Constant Progression: Unlocks and blueprints make every run feel meaningful.

👻 Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights - A Linear Action RPG Gem

Looking for Hollow Knight's somber mood, deep lore, and fantastic combat but in a more straightforward package? Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights is your answer. This 2D action RPG features immersive, rain-soaked backdrops and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack.

The game trades extensive Metroidvania exploration for a more linear, focused experience—a nice change of pace! Its core combat system is brilliant: you collect Spirits from defeated bosses and enemies, each granting a unique attack or ability. The ability to switch between two loadouts instantly adds fantastic strategic depth. While the map design is simpler, the combat, visuals, and story deliver a compelling and complete adventure. It proves you don't need a massive interconnected world to create a memorable experience.

So, while the wait for Silksong continues into 2026, these worlds are ready to test your skills, captivate your imagination, and prove that the legacy of Hollow Knight lives on in many magnificent forms. Which kingdom will you explore next? 🗡️✨