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The Most Punishing Mechanics in Modern Hard Games Difficult video games like Demon's Souls and Hollow Knight challenge players' patience, precision, and resilience with risk-reward mechanics. As of 2026, the conversation around difficult video games has only grown louder. Fans who grew up with the brutal NES era remember how challenging titles like Battletoads, Ninja Gaiden, and even Super Mario Bros. could be. Back then, that difficulty was often seen as a frustrating requirement rather than a selling point. Today, however, a hardcore group of players celebrates games that demand patience, precision, and resilience. Yet not every difficult mechanic feels fair. Some systems add challenge through risk and reward, while others seem needlessly rough. What makes a game hard but fair? Why do certain design choices push players away instead of pulling them deeper into the experience? The modern hard game owes much of its identity to Demon's Souls. FromSoftware's action RPG did not invent difficulty, but it reframed it. The most infamous mechanic is the loss of progress upon death. Defeating enemies grants Souls, which can be used for leveling up or buying items. When a player dies, those Souls remain at the death spot. If the player dies again before reclaiming them, the currency vanishes forever. This loop creates a powerful emotional pull. Spending hours grinding only to lose everything can be disheartening, but for others, that risk-reward trial is invigorating. The 2020 remake made the experience slightly more accessible, yet the core tension remains. The Weight of Lost Progress XCOM: Enemy Within carries a similar philosophy into the strategy genre. Permadeath means that a customized soldier with hours of investment can disappear in a single bad turn. Players can reload saves to try to undo a fatal mistake, but that process becomes its own tedious ritual. Like a Soulslike, losing a carefully built character can feel like losing a piece of progress that was earned over countless battles. Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter pushes this idea toward a looping structure. The game moved the series from fantasy to sci-fi on the PS2, but it also introduced a harsh timer called the D-Counter. Everything the player does, from fighting to moving, adds percentages to that timer. At 100 percent, the game is over. The only real solution is to restart with carried-over progress. This design forces players to accept repeated failure as part of the journey. How many restarts can one player endure before frustration replaces satisfaction? The Long Walk Back Hollow Knight: Silksong has become a major talking point because of its difficulty spike. The boss fights are already demanding, but the routes back to those bosses make them even more taxing. Savage Beastfly and Last Judge are two of the hardest bosses in the game, yet the trial between bench save points can be just as punishing. Is the journey back to a boss part of the challenge, or is it simply busywork? Some players enjoy the process, but others find it like adding insult to injury. A checkpoint before each major encounter could reduce the frustration without lowering the boss's difficulty. Cuphead suffers from a similar problem. The hand-drawn visuals are gorgeous, but the boss fights are relentless. Most levels focus on elaborate encounters filled with dense projectile patterns. What makes them especially cruel is the absence of checkpoints. The game does offer Simple Mode, but beating a boss in that mode does not count toward story progress. Why include a simpler option if it does not actually help the player advance? It may as well not even be there. Systems Piled on Systems Death Stranding was Hideo Kojima's first game after leaving Konami, and it was significantly harder than any Metal Gear title. The premise is straightforward: Sam delivers packages across a post-apocalyptic United States. But the mechanics stacked on top of mechanics turned a simple courier game into a constant balancing act. Players cannot move too fast without risking a fall, which damages packages and causes Sam's partner, a baby called BB, to cry. Mysterious entities can stalk players without an easy way back. The sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, streamlined many of these systems. That change suggests Kojima learned from the original's friction. Monster Hunter: World is another game where multiple systems can overwhelm newcomers. Hunts have time limits and group death counts. If the group faints too many times, the quest fails even if the monster is about to die. The lack of visible enemy health bars adds another layer of uncertainty. In multiplayer, one player's mistake can doom the entire team. Between the timer, shared death limits, and hidden health information, the series can feel like one of the hardest to enter. Abrupt Spikes and Restarts Jak 2 is a classic example of a sequel that ramped up difficulty too quickly. The first game, Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy, was an inviting 3D platformer. Its sequel added guns, a Grand Theft Auto-like mission structure, timers, and strange conditions. Many missions require near-perfect execution under pressure. The leap in difficulty is so abrupt that some fans of the original felt alienated. It is still a cool and more mature game, but the spike is hard to ignore. Across these games, a pattern emerges. Difficulty can be thrilling when it respects the player's time. When mechanics erase progress, remove checkpoints, or force unnecessary restarts, the line between challenge and punishment becomes blurred. Yet for every player who walks away, another embraces the struggle. Perhaps that is the strange beauty of hard games in 2026: they are not meant for everyone, and that is exactly why they endure. Summary Table Game Punishing Mechanic Emotional Toll Demon's Souls Lost Souls on repeated death Disheartenment and risk-reward tension Hollow Knight: Silksong Long boss run-backs Fatigue Death Stranding Balance, package damage, BB stress Overwhelm Cuphead No checkpoints and a useless Simple Mode Frustration Monster Hunter: World Timers, group faint limits, hidden health bars Group pressure XCOM: Enemy Within Permadeath Loss of investment Jak 2 Timed GTA-style missions Abrupt difficulty spike Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter D-Counter leading to forced restarts Restart loop exhaustion The hardest games are not necessarily bad games. They simply ask players to adjust to rules that can feel unnecessarily rough. In an era where many titles smooth over every rough edge, these games stand out because they refuse to compromise. The question is not whether they are difficult, but whether that difficulty feels earned or forced. That divide is personal. What feels unfair to one player might feel like a perfect test of skill to another. The only way to know is to actually sit down with a game and experience its systems firsthand, which means taking a chance on something that might not click. With new releases carrying higher price tags, that gamble becomes riskier than the in-game stakes ever were. Fortunately, fewer players need to pay full price to find out whether a punishing challenge is worth their time. By keeping an eye on [PC game discounts]( anyone can pick up the titles from this list for a fraction of their launch cost. That turns the question of earned difficulty into a simple experiment, one where the main investment is patience rather than money. https://dealnesthq.com

Hollow Knight: Silksong — Surviving The Mist, Beating Phantom, and Unlocking Parry Silksong guide details The Mist and Exhaust Organ, offering tips for Wraiths, Needolin puzzles, and unlocking Cross Stitch. I’m not going to sugarcoat it: Bilewater is one of the most unpleasant stretches of Pharloom I’ve dragged myself through, and the first time I stepped into The Mist, I immediately regretted my curiosity. But after enough deaths, enough Wraith screeches, and enough Needolin notes echoing through fog, I started to understand the method behind the madness. If you’re trying to reach the Exhaust Organ, rescue a very distressed Flea, and unlock Cross Stitch so you can parry for the rest of your run, here’s exactly how I did it. Entering The Mist You won’t find a fixed route here, and that’s by design. The layout of The Mist is randomized every time you enter. The one mercy is that your Cocoon always spawns near the entrance, so if you fall, you won’t lose too much progress. From there, I learned to stop hugging walls and start looking for small, glowing butterflies. When you play your Needolin near them, they float upward. Once you stop playing, they fly toward the correct exit. The problem? The Wraiths won’t give you a quiet moment to perform. This is why I always come into The Mist with Straight Knives or Cogflies in my loadout. Ranged options let me swat away the screeching ghastly women without closing distance and risking a fall. My usual loop looked like this: Clear Wraiths with a ranged tool. Find a glowing butterfly. Play the Needolin long enough to make it rise. Stop playing and follow it. Repeat until the fog opens up. After a couple of correct exits, you’ll notice a straightaway. That’s the game’s way of telling you that you’re on the right path. A few more correct butterfly choices after that, and you’ll step into the Exhaust Organ. Pushing Through the Exhaust Organ The Exhaust Organ wastes no time reminding you where you are. The first room is full of those maggot-infested waters that Bilewater seems to love, and there’s no way around them. I took a deep breath, dove in, and headed left. Once inside the central building, I jumped up the platforms, moved left, climbed the wall, and slashed the bench free from its webbing. That bench is important if you want a checkpoint in this stretch. After that came the steam gauntlet. The pipes on the right follow a fairly linear route, but the timing is everything. I went up to the right, then up and left, then slid down left before moving forward again. When I reached the middle pipe, I broke it open and played my Needolin for the unsettling tube just to hear the bonus lore. From there, I climbed the middle tube, slid down right, wall-jumped up the next section, and made the final climb. There was silk waiting to the right, and Phantom waiting to the left. Beating Phantom Phantom is a showstopping longnail fighter. She takes big stabs at your position and frequently raises her guard to parry you. My first instinct was to wait out her guard, but I actually had better results doing the opposite. I started hitting her guard on purpose. Whenever she parries, you can almost always jump, move toward her current position, and dodge the parry entirely. That leaves her open for a couple of cheap shots before she recovers. It sounds reckless, but it made the first phase much faster. Phase Attack How I Handled It Phase 1 Guard / parry stance Hit her guard intentionally, jump toward her, dodge the parry, punish Phase 2 Giant laser pillars Dash out of the glowing columns, wait for the hitbox to clear, then attack Phase 2 Needle toss Dodge it, then close distance in the middle of the arena Phase 2 Floor shuffle Stay mobile and avoid touching her while she shifts across the boards The second phase starts with Phantom firing massive laser blasts that cover half the arena. As intimidating as it looks, I found this to be her easiest attack. I just dashed away, avoided the big glowing pillars, and waited for the hitbox to disappear before punishing her. The needle toss is also a great opening if you dodge it and hit her in the center of the arena. At the end, make sure you hit the QTE prompt. It’s about as forgiving as they come, and completing the fight unlocks your Parry. Don’t Miss the Flea Before you leave the Exhaust Organ, there’s one easily missed detour. From the boss arena, I went right, fell down, went left, then climbed up and to the left before jumping the gap. In the room with silk-strewn tubes, I ran right past the thread-wrapped cylinders and into a hidden area. From there, I dropped down, exited through the left door, and crossed the floating platforms carefully. All the way to the left, there’s more of that lovely infested liquid to hop across. If you make it, you’ll find a Flea making very concerned noises. Save it. It’s a short detour that I nearly skipped on my first run, and it absolutely matters. How to Parry with Cross Stitch Parrying in this game is not what you might expect from other action titles. You can’t simply press a button whenever you want. Cross Stitch is a Silk Skill, and it costs four bars of Silk to use. When I activate it, Hornet enters a parry stance for a little over half a second. If she’s hit during that stance, she responds with an animation of constantly slashing at the spot where she took damage. That distinction matters. If you parry a projectile, you won’t take damage, but you may completely miss the enemy if the projectile was far away from them. On the bright side, Cross Stitch has a very generous hitbox, so if you’re within a few feet of the enemy, it will probably land. After the parry finishes, you also get a few frames of complete invulnerability. Because the attack tends to place you directly on top of the enemy, I make a habit of dashing away after every successful parry. That way I don’t eat a random hit during the recovery window. It’s one of those skills that feels awkward at first, but once you get used to the rhythm, it turns Phantom’s own aggression against her and becomes essential for later fights in the Underworks. That’s how I finally pushed through The Mist, cleared the Exhaust Organ, and unlocked Cross Stitch. If you’re still getting lost in the fog, lean on the butterflies, keep a ranged option equipped, and don’t be afraid to provoke Phantom’s guard. The parry is worth the struggle. Fighting through the Exhaust Organ and earning Cross Stitch is just one milestone in a game packed with challenges like it. There are more bosses waiting deeper in the Underworks, each with their own rhythms to learn, and mastering the parry now will pay off again and again as you push forward. If you haven't started your run yet, it might be worth waiting for a discount before diving into Pharloom. Silksong frequently appears in promotions, and a reliable [steam sale tracker]( can help you spot the best price without refreshing the store page every day. DealNest makes it easy to monitor price drops across Steam and other platforms, so you can grab the game at the right moment and spend your saved coins on more important things — like practicing that parry window. https://dealnesthq.com

Hollow Knight Silksong: Coral Tower and Crust King Khann Walkthrough Conquer the Hollow Knight: Silksong Coral Tower gauntlet in the Old Hearts quest with top crest, skill, and tool builds. So, here I am in 2026, still thinking about the Coral Tower in Hollow Knight: Silksong. If you've been playing since launch, you know exactly what I mean when I say this place tested me more than any relationship ever has. You've accidentally set the end of the world in motion—don't worry, we've all done it—and now the Old Hearts quest is pointing you toward a towering underwater hellscape in the Sands of Karak. I'm here to walk you through the whole brutal thing, because trust me, you'll need a friend for this one. Before you even think about climbing this tower, let's talk preparation. I cannot stress this enough: fully upgrade your needle before attempting the Coral Tower gauntlet. If you show up with a dull needle, you're basically bringing a toothpick to a war. The good news? This is a memory fight, which means you don't have to re-craft your tools every single time. Spam those things like there's no tomorrow. Preparing for the Fight Crests Everybody has their own preference, but the Crest of the Wanderer carried me through the entire tower. The attack speed is honestly absurd, and the way I deal with the shorter reach is by equipping the Longclaw tool. Problem solved. If you prefer a tankier build, go with something that gives you more survivability, but for me, speed wins every time in these cramped arena rooms. Silk Skills For skills, I paired Sharpdart with the Volt Filament tool from the Voltnest, also in the Sands of Karak. Here's the magic: when multiple flying enemies group up, the electrically charged Sharpdart pierces through all of them for absolutely devastating damage. This setup saved my sanity when the floor turned into a spike bed and I was fighting airborne enemies with no safe ground to stand on. Tools For red tools, Cogflies are your best friends. So many enemies in the tower are flying, and you can't always reach them with your needle. Cogflies do the heavy lifting while you focus entirely on dodging projectiles and not panicking. The Wispfire Lantern is also excellent here for extra chip damage. If you have the Pollip Pouch, equip it to make your tools stretch further. Climbing the Coral Tower First Room To begin this whole ordeal, play the Elegy of the Deep at Khann's body in the center of the tower. You'll be transported into a memory, soaring upward through beautiful blue waters. The first room is honestly just a practice space. You'll see Conchflies you've already fought, and you can farm easy silk from the little fish enemies. There are no environmental hazards here, so resist the urge to burn your tools. Save them. You'll need them. Second Room This is where things get real. The threats here are: Driznarga — These shoot conchcutters at you. Not terrible on their own, but paired with ground spikes, they make your life miserable. Karak Gor — The big guys who throw spikes up from the ground. Bounce on their heads repeatedly to take them down. ️ Ground Spikes — Everywhere. They limit your movement severely, so getting comfortable fighting while airborne is a massive advantage. Play it slow here. Deflect projectiles, use your Clawline, and throw up Cogflies when things get hairy. The jellyfish enemies are actually your friends—use them to heal as much as you can. Don't panic. Third Room The third room is where I nearly lost my mind. Interesting twist though: the ground spikes can become your ally. Try hitting the grounded Karaka melee enemies onto the spikes for an instant kill. It's extremely satisfying when it works. Key threats: 🫧 Corrcrust Karaka — Shoots little yellow bubbles. Longclaw works wonders here, and Sharpdart chips away at him safely. Floorless Fighting — At one point, the entire floor gets covered in spikes. You'll need to grip the wall and attack from there. The Ascendant's Grip is a lifesaver so you don't slide down. Double Jellyfish — The final wave is two jellyfish. Easiest enemies in the game, but after three intense gauntlets, you might be physically exhausted. Take a breath. Don't let them kill you at the finish line. I've been there. It hurts. Fourth Room Honestly, I would recommend dying on purpose after room three just to take a break and restock. No shame in it. The last chamber mixes enemies from the previous three rooms, but strangely, it's actually easier. You're on a small platform, sure, but you can push enemies onto the spikes, and the waves don't last as long. The developers knew you'd have a boss fight after, so they cut you some slack. Once you clear the final wave, use your Silk Soar to rise one last time and face the king. Crust King Khann Weirdly enough, this is the easiest part of the entire Coral Tower. Crust King Khann's attacks have ridiculously long telegraphs, so dodging is a breeze. He never actually hits you directly—he just tries to catch you off guard with long spears of coral. Once you learn his patterns, you'll have massive windows to punish him. Here's a breakdown of what you're dealing with: Attack Type Description How to Counter Coral Spear Long telegraphed thrust from a distance Just walk out of the way Off-Guard Poke Tries to catch you while you're repositioning Keep moving, don't stand still for long Arena Pressure Uses coral formations to limit your space Stay aware of your surroundings This boss design makes total sense. You've just survived a brutal four-room gauntlet, so making Khann too hard would've been cruel. Pick up the heart, breathe a sigh of relief, and never deal with Coral Tower again. Until NG+, anyway. Stay sane out there, fellow Silksong survivors. Of course, after tackling every challenge a game like Silksong throws your way, you'll likely be searching for your next big adventure. The best part (and worst part, if you value your free time) is that the metroidvania and souls-like genres are absolutely packed with hidden gems to explore. Picking up a new title at full price every week isn't realistic though, so most of us learn to be patient shoppers. That's why it's always worth keeping an eye out for [PC game discounts]( before making your next purchase—you never know when a top-tier adventure will drop in price overnight. Scooping up a great game for less means you get the same rush of discovery without the sting of overspending. And hey, when you finally do dive into that next world, just take it from a Coral Tower survivor: breathe, learn the rhythm, and don't let the jellyfish see you sweat. https://dealnesthq.com

Hollow Knight: Silksong Roach Guts Guide: A Disgustingly Fast and Safe Route Get the Hollow Knight Silksong Roach Guts quest done fast in Sinner's Road: find Benjin and Crull, farm ten Muckroach guts, and earn a useful red tool In the damp, decaying alleys of Sinner’s Road, a strange little errand waits for any Hollow Knight: Silksong player brave enough to chat with two very hungry NPCs. Benjin and Crull have developed what can only be described as an enthusiastic taste for questionable cuisine, and they want Hornet to fetch ten fresh roach guts. Yes, roach guts. It might sound like a prank or a punishment, but this side quest is actually quick once the route is known—and it ends with a genuinely useful red tool. Time to knock this one out before the cockroaches get any ideas. How to Start the Roach Guts Quest First, a player needs to reach Sinner’s Road, which is accessible from the northeast area of Greymoor. From the Halfway Home tavern, Hornet must climb upward using platforms and the Swift Step ability. Swift Step is picked up at the Deep Docks, so anyone missing it should handle that first. The entrance to Sinner’s Road sits on the wall to the right after that vertical climb. Once inside, the goal is to find the home of Benjin and Crull. Their little cabin is perched on the upper level of one of the central chambers, on the opposite side from Shakra and the Bench. Since Sinner’s Road loves to throw flying enemies and poisonous lakes at newcomers, unlocking the map and repairing the Bench before starting the quest is highly recommended. A few extra seconds of fast travel and healing will save a lot of heartbreak later. To reach the cabin, clear out the central chamber’s irritating enemies first. The room is full of odd spikes that can be struck for a small bounce, which helps if Faydown Cloak is still missing. Use the spikes, hanging boxes, and platforms to climb from the left side. Then head right, jumping over and smacking the swinging star-maces hanging from the ceiling. Eventually, a modest little house appears. That is where the questionable duo lives. Inside, Benjin and Crull explain their survival strategy: eating all kinds of junk in Sinner’s Road and apparently enjoying it. Their current craving is fresh guts from a Muckroach. Because the curse of Pharloom has made Muckroaches extra aggressive, the pair stopped hunting them. That means Hornet gets the honor of collecting ten Roach Guts. Accept the quest, resist the urge to gag, and move on. How to Get Roach Guts Fast and Safely The best farming spot is practically handed to every player who enters Sinner’s Road. The very first chamber greets Hornet with three aggressive enemies near a collection of hanging boxes. Those are Muckroaches, and yes, they look like alligators with a personal-space problem. They can grab Hornet if she gets too close, so bringing a red tool that grants long-range damage is a smart move. The Tacks reward from this quest is one such tool, but any long-range option works for the farming loop. The strategy is simple and completely free of luck: Loop Action Roach Guts Collected 1 Defeat 3 Muckroaches at the entrance 3 2 Rest at the Bench, return, defeat 3 again 6 3 Repeat once more 9 4 One final loop 10 Each Muckroach drops exactly one gut, so four loops are enough. In the current 2026 build, the route remains unchanged, and every kill still coughs up a guaranteed Roach Gut. The main caution is to avoid fighting all three at once. They hit hard and can corner Hornet quickly. Instead, pull one Muckroach at a time and whittle it down. Each one usually falls after five or six hits. When all three are dead, return to the Bench to heal and force the enemies to respawn. Then march back to the entrance and do it again. It is not glamorous, but it is fast. After collecting ten Roach Guts, head back to Benjin and Crull’s cabin. There is no shortcut, so Hornet still has to bounce across those swinging star-maces. At least the return trip feels like a victory lap—assuming the poison lakes do not land a cheap shot. The Roach Guts Quest Rewards For a quest that sounds like a bad dare, the reward is surprisingly solid. Benjin and Crull hand over the Tacks, a red tool that sets traps for enemies and bosses that walk or slam into the ground. It is like leaving a passive-aggressive welcome mat for anything heavy enough to step on it. In moments of desperation, when a strong enemy is standing between Hornet and the Silk Cocoon, Tacks add both extra damage and a welcome sense of security. Quick Tips to Avoid a Muckroach Meltdown Repair the Bench before farming. It makes the respawn loop painless. 🪲 Fight Muckroaches one at a time. Greedy tactics turn into a grab-based disaster. Bring a long-range red tool if possible. Muckroaches deserve a wide berth. 🧭 Do not bother hunting elsewhere. The entrance trio is the most reliable source. Remember that drops are guaranteed. No need to pray to RNG gods. The Roach Guts quest is a perfect example of Hollow Knight: Silksong hiding useful gear behind a very weird errand. Benjin and Crull get their questionable meal, and Hornet walks away with a trap-setting tool that can make later boss fights noticeably less terrifying. Sometimes the grossest chores in Pharloom are worth the trouble. For any player who has cleared the Roach Guts quest, the next step is usually to sharpen Hornet's needle for the challenges ahead—whether that means hunting down every upgrade or scouting which red tools suit their playstyle. The full release of Hollow Knight: Silksong promises plenty more of those stubborn enemies and clever rewards, and having the right game at the right price can make the wait easier to swallow. 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The M81 McLaren Mustang: Ten Built, But Its Legacy Roared Beyond Numbers Rare M81 McLaren Mustang fused McLaren racing pedigree with Fox-body Mustang turbo power, turning a 1980 four-cylinder into a coveted collector icon. When people think of McLaren, their minds usually jump to Formula 1 or mid-engine supercars like the F1 and 720S. But back in 1980, McLaren Engines in Michigan helped Ford build one of the strangest and rarest pony cars ever to wear a Mustang badge. Ford wanted to shake up its performance image as the muscle car era faded, and McLaren lent real racing credibility. The result was the M81 McLaren Mustang, a turbocharged, race-inspired Fox-body that looked ready for an IMSA grid. A Wild Pitch from the Start Ford originally planned to build 250 examples, but the market had other ideas. Only ten M81s ever left the factory, making them unicorns among Fox-body Mustangs. The price tag was the elephant in the room: roughly $25,000 in 1980, or around $75,000 in today's money. Buyers simply refused to pay supercar money for a four-cylinder Mustang, even one touched by McLaren. As of 2026, auction tracking shows the top sale around $75,000 and the most recent transaction near $51,000\u2014numbers that would have been laughable in the early '80s but now prove the car's collector status. McLaren's Engineering Stamp The heart of the M81 was Ford's 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four, but McLaren Engines did far more than add a badge. The motors were torn down and rebuilt with racing precision. Cylinder heads were ported and polished, tolerances were tightened to motorsport standards, and each engine was blueprint-matched. A variable boost controller allowed drivers to adjust boost from the cockpit, which was a big deal in 1980. With boost cranked up, output rose from a modest 132 horsepower in stock form to about 175 horsepower, with 145 lb-ft of torque. Those figures are small by 2026 standards, but for a four-banger of the era, they were impressive. The real appeal was tunability\u2014turn the wick down for reliability or dial it up for fun. IMSA Looks and a Tuned Chassis Visually, the M81 was no ordinary notchback. Hand-built steel fender flares widened the track, while a deep front air dam, side skirts, and integrated brake ducts gave it a serious competition stance. A vented hood, rear spoiler, and blacked-out trim sharpened the look. It rode on lightweight BBS wheels and was painted primarily in Bittersweet Orange, with one black and one white example among the ten. Inside, the racing theme continued with Recaro bucket seats, a roll bar, and a numbered dash plaque. The suspension was heavily reworked with Koni adjustable shocks, stiffer springs, larger sway bars, and components borrowed from police-package Fairmonts. Bigger front discs and reinforced rear drums added stopping power. A bolt-in roll bar improved chassis stiffness, which was sorely needed because Fox bodies of the era had a reputation for flexing in corners. Reviewers noted the M81 turned in sharply and stayed flat in bends, something a stock Mustang of that time could only dream of. Why Ford Pulled the Plug The M81 was meant to be a production car sold through select dealerships. But Ford had launched its own Special Vehicle Operations division, and an outsourced McLaren project threatened to steal SVO's thunder. Internal politics, combined with sticker shock, killed the program after only ten cars. Eight were Bittersweet Orange, one black, one white\u2014each with its own dash plaque. In a nutshell, the M81 was too expensive, too radical, and too politically inconvenient for its time. A Legacy Bigger Than Ten Cars Although the M81 ended after just ten units, its influence didn't stop there. It proved turbocharging could be used for performance, not just fuel economy. That lesson directly shaped the 1984 Mustang SVO, which used an updated 2.3-liter turbo four making 175 to 205 horsepower and sold nearly 10,000 copies. The M81 also kept the flame alive for racing tech in road cars, bridging IMSA styling with factory engineering. Specification Detail Engine 2.3L turbocharged inline-four, McLaren blueprint-matched Power 175 hp (vs 132 hp stock) Torque 145 lb-ft Boost Driver-adjustable variable boost Chassis Fox-body with widened steel flares, Koni shocks, roll bar Production 10 cars (8 orange, 1 black, 1 white) Original price About $25,000 in 1980 Looking back from 2026, the M81 McLaren Mustang is one of the greatest what could have been stories in muscle car history. It was ahead of its time, blending smaller displacement, turbocharging, and real chassis work when most Americans still equated performance with a big V8. Only ten were built, but their story has outgrown their numbers. They remain a proof of concept that corporate courage and motorsport expertise can create something special\u2014even if the market wasn't ready to buy it. For enthusiasts today, the M81 McLaren Mustang represents a nearly mythical collector prize. With just ten examples ever built, each car that surfaces at auction draws intense interest, and values have climbed steadily as collectors chase the rarest Fox-body variants ever produced. Tracking these ultra-low-volume sales requires more than just scrolling through social media posts or old forum threads. Whether you're hunting for a piece of Ford history or simply evaluating the market for any classic or modern muscle car, staying on top of real-time auction results and price trends can save you thousands. That's where [this price tracking tool]( comes in handy, making it easier to spot fair deals and avoid overpaying on vehicles whose values shift quickly and quietly. https://dealnesthq.com

Choral Chambers Guide: Finding the Map and Best Rewards Choral Chambers in Hollow Knight: Silksong offers hostile mazes, rewarding shortcuts, and side quests for determined adventurers. Choral Chambers in Hollow Knight: Silksong is not the cruelest slice of Pharloom, but it has a special talent for making a player feel gloriously lost. One moment they are pogoing off a bell like a tiny, needle-wielding maestro; the next they are staring at the same rectangular room for the fifth time. Is the area actively hostile? Absolutely. Is it also full of rewards, shortcuts, and a few delightful side quests? Equally true. For anyone determined to clear this late-game zone without losing their mind, the first order of business is tracking down the actual map. The Map Hunt: A Bell-Fueled Odyssey Starting from the bench just north of the Underworks is the sanest approach. If that bench has not been unlocked yet, a player should head southwest inside Choral Chambers until they tumble into a large rectangular room with a single downward exit to the west and another exit at the lower right. Taking the latter leads to a short corridor with a bench—sit down, save, and take a deep breath, because the real navigation begins now. From that bench, the route heads west into a large rectangular room. Hug the left wall until a hole in the floor appears. Just to the right of that hole sits a small platform. A few wall jumps later, a corridor opens on the right. The trick here is not to panic as the rooms begin to blur together. After running down the corridor and wall jumping into a higher room, the player passes an alcove decorated with Rosaries on strings. This is not a suggestion to grab everything in sight; it is a welcome sign that the upward climb is still correct. Continue upward, then head immediately right on the next screen. Enemies in the following room can be fought or ignored. At the very end, attacking a lever opens a hole in the floor. Dropping through, continuing right, and curving back up leads to a higher platform. On the left side, another lever opens an exit into the room above. Attack it, jump up, and run right. Then, in the next room, avoid the enemies and slip out the right exit. Now for the fun part: pogo jumping up the bells and platforms. It looks like a musical instrument, and yes, it can absolutely kill. A secluded passage waits on the right, leading to a room full of spinning gears. Platform over them, then drop all the way down the vertical section while avoiding the spikes on the right side. The glide ability earns its keep here. At the bottom, follow the sign toward the Bellway station, pass the Bell Beast, and rest at the bench. A machine at the end of the corridor will happily sell the Choral Chambers map for 70 Rosaries. Why 70 Rosaries? Perhaps because the cartographer knows exactly how desperate lost bugs can get. Choral Chambers’ Greatest Hits: Benches, Side Quests, and Upgrades With the map in hand, the area reveals itself as more than a maze. The most important stop is the Songclave at the northeastern edge. There, a Wishwell offers The Wandering Merchant sidequest, which sends one after the wayward Jubilana. She is tucked away near the bottom-middle of Choral Chambers. From Citadel Spa, head right, drop to the bottom of the room, exit right, then turn around and use the exit just below and to the left. Rescuing her causes Jubilana to set up shop at the Songclave. Her inventory includes the Ascendant's Grip and Spool Extender tools, plus a Mask Shard. If a player then completes The Lost Merchant from the Wishboard, her inventory expands even further. Collectors should also keep an eye out for two lost fleas: one in the northeast part of the room near Jubilana, and another in the northeast corner of the Songclave itself. Though no proper boss battle guards the Choral Chambers, an Arena Battle sits just west of Citadel Spa. Four waves of enemies provide a solid test of Hornet's tools and patience. Location What's Worth Noting Songclave Wishwell, Jubilana's shop, lost flea Near Citadel Spa Arena Battle, Jubilana's hiding spot Bellway station Map vendor, bench West of large vertical room Bench near Cogwork Core Northwest near High Halls Bench Choral Chambers also acts as a hub of exits. It connects directly to The Slab, Cogwork Core, The Cradle, and Memorium. Anyone hoping to avoid a return trip should deal with these routes while the benches are fresh and Rosaries are plentiful. So, is Choral Chambers worth the headache? For map completists, tool collectors, and anyone who simply cannot stand an unexplored corridor, the answer is a resounding yes. It may not be the hardest area in the game, but it certainly knows how to make an entrance—and a very long exit. For those who have yet to dive into Hornet's adventure, the promise of intricate, interconnected spaces like Choral Chambers is exactly the kind of content that makes the wait worthwhile. If you haven't already secured your copy of Hollow Knight: Silksong, keeping an eye on pricing can pay off—especially since launch discounts and seasonal promotions tend to appear without much fanfare. A reliable [steam sale tracker]( can alert you the moment the game drops in price, ensuring you are ready to explore every gear-turning corner and hidden bench without overspending. Armed with a full map, a stocked inventory, and a well-timed purchase, you can focus on what truly matters: uncovering every lost flea, claiming every tool upgrade, and finally watching that last unexplored corridor fade from your cartographer's chart. https://dealnesthq.com

I Waited Until 2026 to Play Hades 2, and It Was Worth It Hades 2 1.0's launch collision with Silent Hill f forced a tough backlog priority call—playing it later proved right. I still remember the exact moment I decided to stop playing Hades 2. It wasn't because I wasn't enjoying it—far from it. Supergiant's first sequel tore through my expectations like a fully upgraded Aspect of Pan. But after roughly 12 hours in early access, I hit a wall: not a difficulty wall, but the inevitable cliff where content would soon end. I've only ever played two games in early access—No Rest for the Wicked and Hades 2—and while I respect developers who use that model, I prefer to invest in a complete product. So I uninstalled, waited, and eventually got a release date that put me in a bind: September 25, 2025, the very same day as Silent Hill f. Now in 2026, looking back, that release date collision taught me a lot about how I prioritize games. I didn't play Hades 2 on day one. I chose Silent Hill f first, then spent weeks lingering in Hollow Knight: Silksong, which had launched earlier that September. Hades 2 sat in my backlog until I finally carved out time in early 2026. And here's the surprising part: it was absolutely the right call. Hades 2 originally entered early access on May 5, 2024. When its 1.0 version arrived on September 25, 2025, that was less than two years later. For anyone familiar with the first Hades, that timeline felt almost brisk. The original Hades entered early access on December 6, 2018, and didn't hit 1.0 until September 17, 2020. By comparison, Hades 2's early access period was shorter, yet its content volume had already eclipsed the entirety of Hades 1. That's a testament to Supergiant's process, but it also meant the 1.0 launch wasn't a gentle nudge—it was a massive content drop arriving on the most crowded day of my 2025 calendar. September 2025 was absurd. In addition to Hollow Knight: Silksong finally emerging from the shadows, Silent Hill f launched on the same day as Hades 2. I was also juggling whether to pick up Ghost of Yotei in early October, while Little Nightmares 3 and Metroid 4: Beyond loomed later in the month. Cronos: The New Dawn was still sitting unplayed. The backlog wasn't just full; it was overflowing. Silent Hill f was the dealbreaker. I've been waiting for a genuinely bold new entry in that franchise for years. The small slice I played of Hades 2 in early access was spectacular, but it wasn't shattering the earth around its IP in the same way Silent Hill f seemed to be doing for Silent Hill. The novelty, the atmosphere, the risk-taking—it all felt like the series had a pulse again after Bloober's Silent Hill 2 remake proved there was still life in it. So when the two games dropped on the same day, my priority was clear. Here's how my September–October 2025 schedule ultimately shook out: Priority Game Why 1 Silent Hill f Same-day launch, franchise-defining risk I couldn't ignore 2 Hollow Knight: Silksong Released weeks earlier; I was still exploring at a snail's pace 3 Hades 2 1.0 Shelved until I could give it full attention 4 Ghost of Yotei Tempting, but optional depending on time 5 Everything else Little Nightmares 3, Metroid 4, Cronos, etc. By November 2025, I had finished Silent Hill f and Silksong. I could have jumped into Hades 2 then, but I didn't. I waited until January 2026, when the holiday noise cleared and I could treat Melinoë's full journey the way it deserved. And wow, did it deliver. Playing Hades 2 in 2026, long after the launch-week discourse, felt like opening a sealed wine bottle. The new weapons, the expanded character tree, the endgame loops that weren't in early access—everything clicked. Supergiant's formula is iterative, and Hades 2 1.0 is the clearest example yet. The early access period wasn't just about bug fixes; it was about building a foundation that could support dozens of hours without losing that magical 'one more run' pull. Would I recommend waiting as long as I did? Not necessarily. If you aren't nursing a Silent Hill f obsession or a Silksong hangover, Hades 2 1.0 is worth playing immediately. But if your September 2025 was as chaotic as mine, delaying it wasn't a sacrifice—it was an act of self-care. I got to play three of my most anticipated games back-to-back-to-back, and each one benefited from the breathing room. Supergiant will likely stick with early access for future projects, whether that's another sequel or a new IP. After seeing how Hades 2 evolved from 2024 to 2026, I won't hesitate to dip into that process again. I'll just be more strategic about what I install and when. Some games are meant to be savored, not sprinted through on launch day. That strategic approach isn't just good for your mental bandwidth—it's easier on your wallet too. Waiting out the launch-week frenzy means you can often find physical copies, discounted keys, or seasonal sale prices that make a sprawling 60-hour roguelike even more tempting. When I finally cleared my backlog this past January, I didn't pay full price for Hades 2 or a couple of the other titles I'd set aside; I took a beat to compare offers and landed somewhere that respected both my time and my budget. If you're planning your own carefully paced gaming calendar this year, keeping an eye on price trends is just as important as tracking release dates. For anyone looking to stretch their playlist beyond the AAA heavy hitters, it's worth checking [where to buy cheap games]( before committing to a full-price pre-order. A little patience can mean the difference between playing five games and playing eight—and that feels like the true "more runs" approach. https://dealnesthq.com

Hollow Knight: Silksong Savage Beastfly Quest Guide Use Sting Shard, Curveclaw, and Pollip Pouch to beat the Savage Beastfly rematch in Hollow Knight: Silksong’s Bellhart quest in under a minute. When I first faced the Savage Beastfly inside the Chapel of the Beast, I had a rough time simply because it tracks your movement while flying and immediately calls in three extra enemies to pile on pressure. In 2026, with the latest Hollow Knight: Silksong build, the rematch tied to the Bellhart quest still surprises many players, and the arena is honestly worse than the first encounter. I have tested this route several times, and the good news is that a specific loadout can end the fight in under a minute if you set up properly. Prerequisites and Quest Start Before you can accept the rematch wish, I recommend confirming three things: You have defeated the Savage Beastfly inside the Chapel of the Beast. You have progressed through the second Act. You have defeated the Cogwork Dancers. Once those requirements are met, head to Bellhart and check the board for the Wish. Accept it. Then travel to the Far Fields Bellway Station. Tracking the beast from here is possible, but it takes time and offers no extra rewards, so I always skip the tracking step. Reaching the Rematch Arena From Far Fields Bellway Station, take the left passage. Then head down, and after that move right. You will eventually enter the same section as the Four Chorus. That is where the Savage Beastfly rematch takes place. The arena here is more dangerous than the Chapel because lava surrounds the sides, and the boss can destroy platforms when it performs its slam-down attack. Keep this in mind before you trigger the fight, because losing a platform at the wrong moment can push you into a very bad position. Recommended Loadout This is the setup I use after many failed attempts with other tools. Bring the following: Tool Why It Works Sting Shard You can lay these out before the fight begins. If the boss touches them, the burst damage is huge. Curveclaw This gives you a safe long-range option while the Beastfly is flying around. Pollip Pouch It adds Venom to your tools, so every Sting Shard and Curveclaw hit becomes much more effective. The key is preparation before the fight starts. With the Pollip Pouch adding Venom, your placed Sting Shards can deal so much damage that the encounter ends in less than a minute. I usually place several Sting Shards near the centre before triggering the boss, then immediately switch to Curveclaw for follow-up hits. Fight Strategy 🪤 Pre-place Sting Shards: Before the boss activates, scatter a few traps around the safe platform area. The venom bonus makes a huge difference. Stay mobile: The Beastfly tracks your position while flying, so standing still is a death sentence. Keep moving toward undamaged platforms. Watch the lava: Since lava covers the sides, never dodge blindly toward the edges. Try to keep the fight near the centre until a platform breaks. Punish the slam: When the boss goes for the slam-down attack, it can destroy a platform. Wait for the animation to end, then counterattack quickly before it returns to the air. 🧹 Clear the adds: The boss summons three enemies at once. Kill them quickly with Curveclaw so you do not get surrounded while trying to avoid lava. After the Beastfly dies, pick up the Horn Fragment. Then return to the Bellhart quest board. Completing the Wish will reward you with a Mask Shard, which is required to increase your maximum health. This is one of those Silksong quests that feels unfair at first, but the right tools completely change the fight. I have not found a faster or safer method than the venom-backed Sting Shard opening. Even if you miss a trap or two, the Curveclaw gives you enough range to finish the job without standing in the lava. Good luck with the rematch, and keep moving. That same preparation mindset carries over beyond the game itself. Just as you scout the arena and place your tools before the Beastfly fight begins, it pays to plan your purchases before you commit. Silksong's DLC, a better controller, or even a Steam gift card can show up at a much lower price if you are willing to wait for the right moment. Instead of refreshing store pages every day, you can let [this price tracking tool]( watch the price for you. Set an alert, keep playing, and you will get notified when the price drops—so your wallet lasts as long as your determination. https://dealnesthq.com

Silksong Tools Tier List: Ranking All 59 Tools in 2026 This Silksong Tools tier list ranks all 59 tools, revealing the best Tools in Silksong from S Tier to A Tier for any build. Silksong’s tool system can feel overwhelming at first, but it is also one of the most flexible parts of Hornet’s journey through Pharloom. There are 59 Tools in Silksong, not including Ancestral Arts and other abilities she picks up along the way. Tools are split into three colors, and those colors give an instant clue about what a Tool is meant to do. Red Tools are active weapons Hornet can throw, blue Tools generally provide buffs and combat bonuses, and yellow Tools lean into quality-of-life and non-combat value. That color language is helpful, but it does not tell the whole story. A red Tool can be a game-changing boss killer, while a blue Tool might quietly carry an entire playstyle. Not all Tools are made equally. Some are useful no matter how someone plays, and others only shine under very specific conditions. This tier list ranks every Tool according to its general usefulness, power level, and benefits versus drawbacks. The best Tools in Silksong tend to fit any build, stay relevant across the entire game, and offer a clear benefit without a painful drawback. Meanwhile, the worst Tools can still be useful when paired with the right Crests or used in a narrow situation. That is why a tier list matters less for labeling tools as bad and more for helping players decide what to equip before a tough boss or a long exploration route. How Tool Colors Shape a Build Each color tells a different part of Hornet’s kit. Red Tools are active weapons. They can be thrown, aimed, and often create follow-up pressure. Blue Tools are more passive, adding combat bonuses like extra damage, improved healing, or defensive utility. 🟡 Yellow Tools usually stay out of combat entirely, focusing on movement, map readability, and resource convenience. Because a player can mix colors, the best setups often combine one red Tool for pressure, a blue Tool for consistency, and a yellow Tool to remove friction from exploration. S Tier Tools in Silksong S Tier Tools are the ones a player can slot into almost any run and forget about. They do not ask for much setup, they do not fall off in the late game, and their downsides are either tiny or easy to manage. These tools define the meta in 2026 because they make difficult fights more consistent without forcing Hornet into one narrow playstyle. A great S Tier red Tool might shred through armored enemies from a safe distance, while an S Tier blue Tool could provide a passive benefit so strong that it changes how aggressively a player can push. A Tier Tools in Silksong A Tier Tools are right behind the top group. They are powerful, reliable, and worth using in most runs, but they usually have a small condition attached. Some require a specific timing window, some consume a little more resources, and some only reach their full potential after the player adjusts their Crest setup. Still, an A Tier Tool is never a bad pick. It just is not as effortless as an S Tier option. B Tier Tools in Silksong B Tier Tools are solid, but they tend to ask for more commitment. A B Tier Tool can feel amazing in a dedicated build, especially when it lines up with a player’s preferred Crests, but it may not be the best use of a Tool slot in a general exploration loadout. Players who enjoy a specific weapon rhythm or boss-killing setup will often get more value from B Tier choices than a tier list suggests. C Tier Tools in Silksong C Tier Tools usually carry a noticeable drawback or simply get outclassed by other options in the same color. They can work, but they often require more effort, more resources, or a very specific fight to feel worthwhile. For players who love experimentation, C Tier can still be fun, but for a first run they are rarely the best choice. Situational and Worst Tools Some Tools sit at the bottom not because they are useless, but because their usefulness is extremely narrow. They might only shine against a particular boss, in a certain biome, or when combined with a specific Crest effect. A player who knows Pharloom well can take one of these low-tier Tools and turn it into a surprising answer for a tricky encounter. However, for general play or blind exploration, they usually are not worth the slot. Quick Tier Snapshot Tier General Feel Best For S Universal power, low downside Almost any build A Strong with a small condition Most playstyles B Solid in a dedicated setup Specific Crest synergy C Clunky or outclassed Experimentation Situational/Worst Very narrow use Specific bosses or setups The Crest Factor No Tool tier should be treated as final because Crests can completely change the math. A C Tier Tool that looks weak on its own can become a monster when a Crest removes its downside or doubles its effect. The reverse is also true: an S Tier Tool might not feel special if a player’s Crest choices pull the build in another direction. The smartest approach is to treat the tier list as a starting point, then test Tools against the bosses and areas that actually cause trouble. After spending time with each Tool and finding the loadout that fits your playstyle, you may want to test those skills in other challenging worlds. Many of the best metroidvania games share Silksong’s emphasis on precision, exploration, and build variety. If you’re looking to expand your library without overspending, you can check the [best game deals]( on DealNest to pick up similar titles at a discount. Keeping your collection fresh lets you carry the lessons learned in Pharloom into new adventures, making every Crest and Tool choice feel even more rewarding. https://dealnesthq.com

I Claimed the Heart of Might in Silksong: My Coral Tower Route Hollow Knight: Silksong Heart of Might (Encrusted Heart) guide: cross Sands of Karak to Coral Tower and survive its brutal memory arenas. In my 2026 playthrough of Hollow Knight: Silksong, I quickly realized that the Abyss cannot be survived without proper protection. That forced me to hunt down three ancient hearts from mighty warriors. The first one I decided to claim was the Heart of Might, also known as the Encrusted Heart. To get it, I had to cross the scorching Sands of Karak, reach the eastern Coral Tower, and then survive a brutal chain of arena fights inside a memory. Here is exactly how I did it. Reaching Coral Tower from the Sands of Karak I started at the Blasted Steps and kept moving to the right. The environment itself becomes part of the challenge: several hanging branches react when struck, growing just enough for Hornet to use them as platforms. The first major vertical room contains a hidden shortcut that leads directly to the upper level, but it can only be opened from above. If you want to skip some jumps, you can try using Silk Soar from the middle of the eastern vertical room. To open the shortcut properly, though, I dropped all the way to the bottom of that vertical shaft. At the bottom, I hit the branch and quickly platformed upward. The timing can be tight, but each growth gives you just enough height to continue. Once I reached the top, I moved left and destroyed a rock above the bridge. That opened the shortcut back to the entrance, which is incredibly useful if you fall or need to retreat to a bench. Continuing left required a mix of tools. The final branch led me to a wall, where I had Hornet cling and then jump to a higher wall. From there, Clawline carried me safely to the left platform. Inside the building, I found a slumbering warrior surrounded by enemies. Before doing anything else, I turned right and went through a hidden passage to find a bench. That bench is essential because the upcoming sequence is long and merciless. After resting, I approached the warrior and played the Elegy of the Past with the needle. This transported Hornet into Coral Tower's memory, where the true trial begins. What to Do Inside the Coral Tower Memory Once inside Coral Tower, there are no puzzles or collectibles to chase. The entire sequence is a combat gauntlet: multiple arena fights, waves of enemies, and platforming under pressure. I used Silk Soar immediately to reach the top of the first room. Then I went left and jumped up to trigger the first boss fight. This arena is all about endurance, because enemies arrive in waves. A large white jellyfish-like creature will sometimes appear during the fight. Striking it restores silk, which I saved for healing between waves. Having tools like the Cogfly equipped was extremely helpful. They attack enemies automatically, and if laced with venom, they deal extra damage while I focused on staying alive. From there, I went up and turned left into a second arena. Midway through the battle, red spikes began covering parts of the floor. They stayed until near the end, when a larger enemy appeared and broke them. I found it safest to keep moving and not commit to long ground combos. The third arena was the most punishing in my run. Almost immediately, the ground was covered in spikes, leaving no safe space to stand. Hornet had to stick to the walls and attack enemies without falling. This is where the Ascendant's Grip made a huge difference, because it prevents Hornet from sliding down walls. I had already purchased it from the Wandering Merchant after completing her quest. If you do not have it yet, I strongly recommend returning to get it before attempting this gauntlet. After clearing that room, I ran to the top and destroyed a rock, which created a shortcut back to the Coral Tower entrance. It is a welcome safety net if you die later. The fourth fight changed the arena completely. Instead of a wide floor, only three platforms were available. At some point during the fight, one platform broke and then reappeared later. I had to juggle positioning carefully while avoiding enemies. Once that fight ended, I used Silk Soar one last time to fly high into the final arena. Facing the Crust King, Khann At the top, the Crust King Khann waited. This boss likes to jump around frequently and can summon spikes from every corner of the arena. I found that patience was more important than aggression. I waited for his landing animations, landed a few hits, and immediately repositioned when the spikes began forming. Healing was risky, so I only used silk after creating distance. Defeating him rewarded me with the Encrusted Heart, completing the Heart of Might quest. Quick Reference: Abilities and Tools Tool / Ability Why It Helps Silk Soar Reaches high platforms and the final boss arena Clawline Crosses wide gaps on the way to Coral Tower Ascendant's Grip Prevents wall sliding during the spiked third arena Cogfly Automatically attacks enemies, especially with venom Now that I have the Heart of Might, I only need to defeat the other two mighty warriors to continue deeper into the Abyss. If you are stuck on this section, remember to open the shortcut early, use the hidden bench, and bring wall-control tools. Coral Tower is not about clever puzzles; it is a test of combat consistency, patience, and silk management. The climb through Coral Tower may feel overwhelming at first, but every tool you invested in beforehand pays off in these tight, multi-wave encounters. That preparation-first design is what makes Silksong so satisfying, and it rewards players who pause to upgrade, explore optional areas, and return with the right kit. Whether you’re chasing the Abyss ending or simply clearing every quest, taking the time to ready yourself before a challenge can make all the difference between another corpse run and a clean victory. For players who enjoy sinking hours into long, demanding adventures like this one, it always helps to stretch a gaming budget a little further. If you’re thinking about picking up Silksong on another platform or want to stock up on similar titles for your next playthrough, checking current game deals before purchasing is a smart habit. Sites like [DealNest]( round up discounts across games and accessories, so you can spend less time hunting for a price drop and more time back in Pharloom sharpening your silk skills. https://dealnesthq.com

After Hollow Knight: Silksong, Here Are 8 Games That Scratch the Same Itch Looking for games like Hollow Knight: Silksong, these challenging Metroidvania action-platformers deliver precise combat and haunting exploration. Like so many players, I spent an agonizingly long time waiting for Hollow Knight: Silksong. Now that it’s finally here in 2026, I can say the wait was worth it. The movement feels faster, the combat is sharper, and somehow it’s even more punishing than the first game—and I love every second of it. But after rolling credits, I found myself asking: what do I even play next? Going back to the original Hollow Knight felt safe, but I wanted something similar yet new. So I put together a list of games that have helped me fill that Hornet-shaped void. What makes a game feel like Silksong? For me, it’s precise movement, tough but fair bosses, a haunting atmosphere, and that constant itch to explore every corner of a map. So here are the games I keep returning to when I need that same rush. Animal Well — Survive Using Your Head Animal Well is not about combat—it’s about wits. You play as a nameless blob exploring a massive, interconnected labyrinth full of secrets and hostile animals. Instead of fighting your way through, you use tools to outsmart enemies and solve layer after layer of puzzles. I’ll admit, it took me a few tries to get hooked, but once the puzzle logic clicked, I couldn’t put it down. If Silksong’s tricky platforming burned you out, this is the mental challenge that still feels rewarding. Rain World — Curiosity Killed the Slugcat Rain World originally came from a Kickstarter, just like the first Hollow Knight, and it shares that grim, dangerous streak. You’re a Slugcat dropped into a ruined civilization, and you must find food and shelter while larger predators hunt you. What blows me away is how fluid the world feels: the pixel art seems alive, and the movement has a slippery, weighty quality that makes every jump tense. It’s a survival platformer that never lets you feel safe, and I mean that as a compliment. Lies of P — A Challenge with No Strings Attached Need a 3D break from Silksong? Lies of P puts you in the puppet shoes of Pinocchio, but forget the singing cricket. This is a twisted city overrun by murderous mechanical puppets, and you survive through precise blocking, parrying, and dodging. If Soulslikes usually feel too dense, Lies of P stands out because its disturbing fairytale world actually made me care about why I was fighting. It’s tough, but the challenge feels earned. Cuphead — The Challenging Cartoon Adventure Don’t let Cuphead’s jazzy soundtrack and cute 1930s cartoon looks fool you. This run-and-gun boss rush is brutally difficult. Instead of a nail or blade, you fire energy shots by snapping your fingers, and the game turns that simple idea into a flying gunship of chaos. Somehow, even when I died dozens of times, I never wanted to quit. And because Cuphead supports online multiplayer, I could call in a friend when a boss got too nasty. Dark Souls: Remastered — The Pioneer of the Soulslike Genre Would Hollow Knight even exist without Dark Souls? Maybe, but it wouldn’t feel the same. Dark Souls defined the loop of dying, learning, and trying again that Hollow Knight and Silksong lean on. The Remaster gave it a 60 FPS boost and higher detail, plus the Artorias of the Abyss DLC. But the difficulty remains untouched. So unless you’re a speedrunner, be prepared to die a lot—just like my first weekend with Silksong. Dead Cells — Make Each Run Count Here’s a roguelike twist for players who want a bigger challenge. In Dead Cells, death is permanent: your weapons, gold, and items from that run are gone. But the upgrades to your health, gold reserves, runes, and blueprints remain, so you’re always progressing in some way. The levels are procedurally generated, which means no two runs feel the same. That unpredictability kept me coming back just to see what weird build I could create next. Hades — Welcome to The Underworld Not every great Metroidvania-adjacent game needs to be a pure Metroidvania. Hades balances satisfying, fast-paced combat with a fully voice-acted story drawn from Greek mythology. You fight through the Underworld as Zagreus, gather gear, and build relationships with a cast of entertaining gods and shades. Even if the isometric view isn’t usually your thing, the dungeon layouts and smooth action make it work. It’s one of those rare games where I actually looked forward to dying just to hear more dialogue. Ori and the Will of the Wisps — A Metroidvania Masterpiece Like Silksong, Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a sequel that surpasses the original. It delivers gorgeous visuals, a moving story, and a soundtrack that still gives me chills. Movement, melee, and magic all blend together for tight platforming and combat. What surprised me most is how emotional the story gets—maybe the only thing harder than the gameplay is not crying by the end. If you want a Metroidvania masterpiece after Silksong, this is the one. Final thoughts Was there ever really a way to replace Hollow Knight: Silksong? Probably not. But these eight games each capture something I love about Hornet’s adventure: the precision, the atmosphere, the challenge, or the sheer thrill of exploring an unknown world. Whether you want 2D or 3D, roguelike or pure Metroidvania, one of these should give you that next great adventure. Of course, being a fan of these genres often means wanting to try not just one, but several of these adventures back to back. That's why it always pays to keep an eye out for the [best game deals]( before you make your next purchase. A great discount can turn an uncertain try into an easy yes, and leave you with room in the budget for even more hidden gems. So whether you're diving into Dead Cells for the first time or finally facing the Pantheon in Hollow Knight, remember that the next unforgettable journey often starts with a smart buy. Happy exploring. https://dealnesthq.com

I Tamed the Beast: How I Found and Used Hornet's Life-Stealing Crest in Silksong Crest of the Beast in Hollow Knight: Silksong unlocks aggressive, high-risk combat and life-steal for daring players. I had been stuck in a cautious rhythm during my 2026 journey through Hollow Knight: Silksong. My usual setup kept me alive, but it also made every brawl feel slow. Then I read about a tool that would push Hornet into a savage, high-risk, high-reward style: the Crest of the Beast. Instead of polite swordplay, this crest grants feral claw-like attacks, extra damage, and a very tempting life-steal ability in Wild Fury mode. I instantly wanted it, but getting my hands on the crest turned into a tiny expedition through one of the game's most hostile early regions. Why the Crest of the Beast Fits an Aggressive Playstyle The crest is not subtle. It transforms Hornet's standard moveset into something predatory. Your attacks hit harder, and the bind mechanic changes completely. Rather than the usual recovery tool, binding with this crest triggers Wild Fury mode. In that state Hornet gains even more offensive power, and every successful strike can restore health. It is a perfect choice for players who love to stay close to danger instead of retreating. This animalistic combat style also pairs beautifully with Silksong's combat-focused crests system. You are not locked into one identity, so I treated the Crest of the Beast as a situational weapon: a beast-mode switch for fights where aggression matters more than safe positioning. Early Preparation: Getting the Drifter's Cloak Before hunting the crest, I needed the Drifter's Cloak. I got it by finishing the Flexile Spines quest in the Far Fields. That reward unlocked the float ability, which is essential for reaching the crest area. If you skip this step, the route to the Chapel of the Beast becomes impossible in places. Once the cloak was mine, I traveled to Hunter's March. My goal was the bottom-right corner of the region, where a cave mouth sits almost like a hidden invitation. Entering the Chapel of the Beast The cave led me to the Chapel of the Beast entrance, and I immediately felt the area's angry personality. Red orchids, thorns, and air currents filled the space. At first the left gate was closed, so I moved right and used the air current to float to a higher platform. That is where the real platforming test began. I pogoed off the red orchids on the right, floated upward, and then let Hornet descend slowly while avoiding the red thorns on the left. The Drifter's Cloak made this feel less like a leap of faith and more like a controlled glide. Eventually I landed on the other side of the locked gate. A quick switch opened the gate permanently, so I could move left without repeating the whole sequence. That quality-of-life unlock was a relief, because the next room was not peaceful. Facing the Savage Beastfly Just beyond the gate, the Savage Beastfly boss was waiting. This fight felt like the crest's philosophy in enemy form: fast, relentless, and punishing if you hesitate. I kept my aggression short and focused on avoiding its swooping attacks rather than trying to trade hits. After it fell, the path to the left opened into a quiet chamber with a statue. I interacted with the statue, triggered the binding, and finally received the Crest of the Beast. How the Crest Feels in Combat The first thing I noticed was the new claw-like attack moveset. Hornet's strikes felt shorter, sharper, and more brutal. Basic enemies that previously required multiple hits started melting under the increased damage. The real joy came from Wild Fury mode. When I used the bind during combat, I stopped relying on a safe heal and instead leaned into the beast state. Every hit I landed returned a bit of health, which encouraged constant pressure. This fits a simple but dangerous rule: the crest rewards you for staying in the fight. If you are confident enough to keep attacking, the life steal can keep you alive through encounters that would normally force defensive play. The Downsides of the Crest of the Beast It is not a perfect crest. After testing it across several zones, I found two big weaknesses. First, Hornet's downward strike becomes much more angled than normal. In a game full of pogo challenges, that angled strike can make platforming sections feel awkward. The same move that helps in combat can hurt you when you are bouncing off mushrooms, spikes, or enemies over a bottomless drop. Second, the bind change can throw off your instincts. The wild mode does not immediately heal you like a standard bind. If you are used to hitting bind as an emergency heal, you will need to unlearn that habit. Otherwise you may activate Wild Fury at low health and fail to recover because you stopped attacking. The table below shows how I felt about the tradeoff: Situation Crest of the Beast performance Dense enemy rooms Excellent due to damage and life steal Boss fights Great as long as you stay aggressive Precision platforming Risky because the downward strike is angled Emergency healing Weak because bind does not instantly heal When to Use the Crest of the Beast My best recommendation is to switch to the Crest of the Beast right before a fight-heavy section. If a room is packed with enemies or a boss gate is ahead, equipping this crest gives you a serious offensive advantage. Once the battle is over and the path turns into a careful platforming sequence, I switch back to a more balanced tool like the Crest of the Wanderer. That rotation helped me keep the best of both worlds: brutal damage when I needed it, and reliable movement when I did not. The Crest of the Beast became my favorite pocket weapon in Silksong, not my permanent identity. In a game that rewards flexibility, that kind of setup feels very natural. Charm loadouts are such a personal part of the Silksong experience that half the fun is testing new arrangements between every bench. If you are planning a full run with the Crest of the Beast, it helps to know that the game itself is well worth the purchase for anyone who loves this kind of precise combat and movement. Since you will likely spend hours experimenting with these builds, snagging a good deal on the game leaves more room to enjoy every well-crafted zone without stressing over the cost. Before you dive into Hornet's journey and start hunting down your favorite crests, it is worth checking which retailer offers the best rate for your region. You can [compare prices here]( to make sure you get the most value out of your next adventure. https://dealnesthq.com

Hollow Knight: Silksong: Every Ventrica Station Location and Fast Travel Guide Hollow Knight: Silksong Ventrica stations offer fast travel and efficient Rosary farming in the vast Grand Citadel map. As players explore the Grand Citadel in Hollow Knight: Silksong during 2026, the sheer scale of the place can sneak up on anyone. There are 9 sub-areas in this one map — and that is if players count the Grand Gate — so getting turned around is pretty much par for the course. Luckily, Team Cherry added Ventrica stations, high-speed tubes that launch Hornet across the Citadel in a flash, much like the Bellway Stations players have already used. The catch? Some of these stations are tucked away, and without enough Rosaries on hand it is easy to walk right past them and forget they exist. What Makes Ventrica Stations So Useful Ventrica stations are more than just convenience. They cut down travel time, make Rosary farming routes much faster, and open up shortcuts to merchants and bosses. In a game as sprawling as Silksong, having the right fast-travel point unlocked can be the difference between a smooth run and a long, boring walk. Below is the full rundown of every Ventrica station in the Grand Citadel, along with the best ways to use each one. Terminus Terminus is the central hub of the Ventrica network, and every other station feeds back into it. To be blunt, there is not a ton to do here beyond resting and making the run back to the main Act 2 boss. Still, it is the backbone of fast travel in the Citadel, so players should unlock it as early as possible. Memorium The Memorium station sits in the top-left corner of Memorium. It is not the flashiest fast-travel point, because the area itself is fairly small. Its main uses are rescuing a giant flea, grabbing the Materium device, and heading toward the Putrified Ducts. Players who want to fill out the Hunter’s Journal can also grind enemies nearby without much hassle. High Halls Found just before the Forum Gauntlet fight and close to the Sentinel boss fight, the High Halls station is a real gem for anyone looking to farm Rosaries. Players can rest at the bench here, sprint down the long corridor, and wipe out tall guards along the way. In Act 2 there are five guards, and when paired with Grindle’s Thief’s Mark, a single run can net 275 Rosaries. Rest at Songclave, then rinse and repeat until the wallet is loaded. First Shrine This station is just above Songclave and sees constant use during missions from the Overseer and the Wishboard. It also provides quick access to the Whispering Vaults and Jubilana the merchant, making it a handy pit stop for errands and shopping. Choral Chambers Found in the far west of the Citadel, the Choral Chambers station opens up routes to the top of the Grand Gate, Whiteward, and the rest of the Choral Chambers area. Players attempting the Couriers Rasher delivery will pass through here often, so it is worth memorizing. It is also a solid travel point for one of the main Act 3 bosses. Grand Bellway Grand Bellway is the workhorse of the Ventrica network. Because it sits right next to the Bellway Station and has a bench, it is perfect for both Trobbio fights and serves as a crossroads. From here players can reach the Whispering Vaults, Choral Chambers, the Underworks, or even the Exhaust Organ in Bilewater. If someone only unlocks one extra station beyond Terminus, this should probably be it. Underworks After dropping from Whiteward and grabbing the Clawline ability, the Underworks station is the fastest way back to the surface. It is also the closest fast-travel spot for visiting the Architect, whose shop is just a short stroll to the north-east. Whenever players need new items or upgrades, this station is a huge time-saver. Quick Reference Table Station Location Best Use Terminus Central hub Resting and Act 2 boss runs Memorium Top-left Memorium Materium device, Putrified Ducts, Hunter’s Journal grinding High Halls Before Forum Gauntlet Rosary farming and Sentinel boss access First Shrine Above Songclave Overseer and Wishboard missions, Whispering Vaults, Jubilana Choral Chambers Far west Citadel Grand Gate, Whiteward, Couriers Rasher route Grand Bellway Next to Bellway Station Crossroads, Trobbio fights, Exhaust Organ route Underworks Near Architect Clawline return, item shopping Final Tips for Speedrunners Learning how to get around the Citadel in the shortest amount of time is a major part of Hollow Knight: Silksong, especially for players chasing Speedrun achievements. The Ventrica network is not just about convenience — it is about shaving minutes off every trip. Unlock each station as soon as the Rosaries allow, and if a location feels forgotten, backtrack after unlocking an area ability like the Clawline. A few Rosaries spent on travel now can save a lot of headache later. ️ Mastering the Ventrica network is all about respecting your own time as a player — the less time spent backtracking, the more time you have for boss fights, exploration, and chasing that perfect speedrun. The same mindset applies outside the game too: players who love optimizing routes tend to appreciate getting the best value for their gaming budget. If you are looking to pick up Hollow Knight: Silksong or expand your library after finishing the Citadel, it is worth checking out the [game deals today]( on DealNest. That way, you can spend less time hunting for savings and more time exploring everything Pharloom has to offer. https://dealnesthq.com

Silksong: Wispfire Lantern Location and Father of the Flame Guide Hollow Knight: Silksong’s Wispfire Lantern offers powerful auto-fireball combat but at the cost of Silk and mobility trade-offs. In Hollow Knight: Silksong, players who enjoy letting their tools do the heavy lifting should keep an eye out for the Wispfire Lantern. This hidden piece of gear is a real game-changer in combat, but getting it is no walk in the park. It sits in a tucked-away area that many players might miss on a first playthrough. Here is a full breakdown of what the Wispfire Lantern does, where to find it, and how to take down the boss that guards it. What Makes the Wispfire Lantern Special The Wispfire Lantern is not your average tool. Once equipped, its passive effect constantly summons fireballs that automatically track nearby enemies. That means Hornet can keep moving and dodging while the lantern chips away at whatever is trying to ruin her day. It is especially handy against swarms of smaller bugs or enemies that like to keep their distance. Of course, every silver lining has a cloud. The big downside is the tool's heavy Silk consumption. Using the Wispfire Lantern means Hornet will have fewer hooks available for exploration. Those grappling hooks are crucial for platforming and reaching hidden ledges, so players have to ask themselves whether the extra firepower is worth the mobility hit. It is a bit of a double-edged sword, and different playstyles will feel that trade-off differently. How to Reach the Wisp Thicket The Wispfire Lantern is tucked away in a small zone called the Wisp Thicket. This little connector area links Underworks with Greymoor, giving Hornet a shortcut that skips the Blasted Steps entirely. That shortcut alone can save a lot of backtracking for anyone who finds it. To get there, players should travel to Greymoor and climb the tower above the Halfway Home Inn. From there, head left into the area filled with balloons between the two towers. It sounds simple enough, but the actual entrance is easy to overlook. At that spot, players need to keep their eyes peeled for a hidden passage in the ceiling. Once inside, there is a small wooden staircase tucked into a corner. The passage is so dark that the staircase is barely visible, so it pays to slow down and look carefully. Missing it is a real pain in the neck, especially after a long trek through Greymoor. Once players make it inside the Wisp Thicket, a bench is immediately available to the right. Sitting down is a smart move because nobody wants to repeat the whole run if Hornet falls during the upcoming fight. Defeating the Father of the Flame After resting, players should keep heading west until they hit a dead end. That is where the Father of the Flame appears. This boss might look intimidating, but its pattern is manageable once players know what to focus on. The Father of the Flame does not move around the arena. Instead, it relies on four Lanterns positioned around it to rain fireballs on Hornet. In the first phase, the goal is to jump and attack those Lanterns. Destroying them stops the boss from summoning more fireballs and brings the first phase to a close. It is a good idea to keep moving and strike between volleys, because standing still is a surefire way to get burned. In the second phase, a large furnace emerges from the boss's chest. This furnace cranks up the number of fireballs the boss can summon, making the arena much more chaotic. The strategy does not change too much, though: players need to attack the furnace on the boss's chest until it is destroyed. Once that furnace goes down, the Father of the Flame is finished, and the Wispfire Lantern is finally up for grabs. Is the Wispfire Lantern Worth It? For players who love passive damage and do not mind trading some mobility, the Wispfire Lantern is worth its weight in gold. It shines in combat-heavy sections where extra fireballs can clear out enemies without Hornet needing to stop and swing her needle every two seconds. On the flip side, anyone who depends heavily on hooks for exploration might find the Silk drain more trouble than it is worth. A quick summary: Pros Cons Automatic homing fireballs Heavy Silk consumption Great for crowd control Fewer hooks for exploration Helps while dodging Requires defeating a boss Saves time in combat Hidden location is easy to miss At the end of the day, the Wispfire Lantern is one of those tools that rewards players who take the time to sniff out hidden corners of the map. The fight against the Father of the Flame can be a bit frantic, but the payoff is a unique passive ability that can change how combat feels. With the right approach, getting this lantern is less of a headache and more of a satisfying detour. For players who enjoy the type of meticulous exploration that uncovers treasures like the Wispfire Lantern, the adventure doesn't have to end when the credits roll. There are plenty of titles on Steam that deliver that same mix of tight combat and rewarding discovery. Before grabbing your next purchase, though, it pays to do a little digging — a reliable [steam deal finder]( can surface discounts you might otherwise overlook, making it easier to fill your wishlist without emptying your wallet. Just like timing your strikes against the Father of the Flame, waiting for the right sale can make all the difference. https://dealnesthq.com

How to Reach Sinner's Road and Get Its Map in Silksong Conquer Hollow Knight: Silksong's roach-infested Sinner’s Road map with exact wall-jump and pogo routes from Halfway Inn to Shakra. From the moment I first poked around above Halfway Inn, I knew Sinner’s Road would be trouble. The narrow platforms, the grab-happy roaches, and the general gloom all scream one thing: turn back. But if you want that map, you have to keep moving. The route is not as confusing as it looks once you break it down. One missed pogo, though, can send you tumbling into a pool of something you do not want to identify. Here is how I finally made it to Shakra and picked up the Sinner’s Road map. Sinner’s Road sits high above Greymoor. It is not the kind of place you stumble into by accident. You need to find a specific lift, complete a platforming gauntlet, and deal with some really annoying enemies. The area feels desolate in the best worst way possible, with roaches skittering around and maggot-infested pools tucked into the corners. Exploring is tense, and finding the map makes the whole thing much more manageable. Quick checklist before you leave Before you start climbing, make sure you are ready. 🧗 Wall jump is required. Several sections are nearly impossible without it. Double jump via Faydown Cloak speeds up one specific room, but it is optional. ️ Extra masks help. The roaches hit harder than they look. Patience is non-negotiable. Pogo jumps around cages and saw blades punish panic. ️ If you have not reached Greymoor yet, work through Far Fields first. Step 1: Start at Halfway Inn Travel to Greymoor and locate Halfway Inn. The lift you need sits just to the left of the inn. It is easy to miss if you are focused on the building itself, so hug the left side. Ride the lift up to the upper platforms. Once the lift stops, head right. You will see several inflated objects floating near the edge. They look playful. They are not. Pogo off them with controlled inputs. Give yourself a second between bounces. I learned the hard way that trying to chain them too quickly sends Hornet flying in the wrong direction. High above, there is a wall on the right side. Use wall jump to scale it. At the top, look for a cave opening on the right. This cave is your entrance into Sinner’s Road. Once you slip inside, the atmosphere shifts instantly. Surviving the entry stretch Inside Sinner’s Road, keep moving right. The ground is absolutely crawling with roaches. They do not wait for you to get close; they pounce. Hornet can get caught mid-move if you are not careful, and the grab attack eats health fast. My advice is simple. Stay off the floor whenever possible. Climb onto the hanging cages and hop from one to the next. The spacing feels awkward at first, but the rhythm becomes familiar. Trust the cages over the ground. Continue right until you spot a sign marked with the bench symbol. That sign is your cue to climb higher. Use wall climb and enter the next pathway on the right. This leads into a larger room with a vertical challenge. Two ways up in the cage room This room can slow you down if you are not prepared. There are two ways to reach the upper platforms. One is a shortcut, and one is the longer route. Method Requirement Difficulty Wall and double-jump shortcut Faydown Cloak ability Easy Saw-blade pogo route No special ability required Moderate If you have double jump, life is good. Right above the entrance, grab the wall and climb to the hanging cage. From the cage, jump left to gain a little height, then double jump right onto the platform. It sounds precise, but the window is generous. Once you land, breathe. If you do not have double jump, do not worry. Head to the rightmost part of the room. You will see hanging saw blades. These are your pogo points. Bounce from blade to blade until you reach the top. Treat each bounce as its own tiny decision. The moment I started thinking two bounces ahead, I fell. Focus on the current bounce only. Whichever method you choose, drop to the left side once you are high enough. Hit the switch to unlock the gate. If you hear the gate open, you are on the right track. Reaching Shakra and the map Go through the unlocked gate. Beyond it, jump over two hanging cages. Watch your spacing here, because a miss means falling back into roach territory. You will see a doorway marked with the bench symbol. Enter that doorway. After a short platforming section, you will meet Shakra. This merchant sells the Sinner’s Road map. Buy it immediately. Having the map changes everything because the area stops feeling like a maze. You can finally see where the pathways connect and where the dangerous rooms sit. There is also a bench near Shakra. If it is inactive or damaged, you may need to fix it before resting. Either way, this is a major checkpoint. Rest if you can, then plan your next route through Sinner’s Road with the map open instead of guessing. Final tips before you go Roaches are the biggest early threat. Stay high and keep moving. Do not fight fair on the ground. The saw-blade route is entirely doable without double jump, but it wants patience more than skill. If you fall, do not tilt. The route is shorter than it feels. Buying the map first makes every return trip far less stressful. Honestly, reaching Shakra felt like a small festival of relief. And in a place as hostile as Sinner’s Road, any relief is worth chasing. That covers the path to Sinner’s Road and its map. Get the lift, climb the walls, choose your route carefully, and let Shakra sell you the one thing that makes the fog lift. Good luck up there. Getting through a place like Sinner’s Road is a small victory, but it is also a reminder of how much planning can smooth out an otherwise punishing experience. The same logic applies outside the game itself. Before you commit to your next sprawling adventure, it is worth putting a little of that careful strategy into where you buy your titles. A quick [game price comparison]( can save you enough to justify adding that extra DLC you have been eyeing, or to pick up another indie hidden gem on the side. Smart explorers check their route ahead of time; smart players check their storefronts too. So after you finally rest at that bench and let the name of Sinner’s Road fade into just another mark on your map, take a moment to enjoy the win. Then, when the next journey calls, let DealNest help you decide which world is worth entering next. Fewer coins spent getting in means more time spent mastering what waits inside — and that is the kind of advantage every player can appreciate. https://dealnesthq.com

Hollow Knight vs Silksong: My Honest Verdict After Finishing Both Hollow Knight: Silksong vs Hollow Knight comparison: both excel in art and soundtrack, Hollow Knight has more content, and Silksong is harder. I won’t pretend I was calm when Hollow Knight: Silksong finally landed on my PC. After waiting what felt like an eternity, I dove in, and yeah, it rocketed up the Steam charts for a reason. But the question I kept hearing from friends, and the one I kept asking myself, was simple: is it better than Hollow Knight? Now that enough of us have clawed our way through the brutal late-game areas, I can give you my honest, slightly sleep-deprived comparison. Artwork And Soundtrack: Both Let’s get this out of the way. Both games are ridiculously pretty. Hollow Knight’s Hallownest is this melancholic, hand-drawn dreamscape that somehow makes a dying kingdom feel cozy and terrifying at the same time. Silksong’s Pharloom flips that energy upward, with silk-covered verticality, brighter highlights, and Hornet’s red cloak slicing through it all. The animations match the art. Every critter, every massive beast, every little particle feels alive. And the soundtracks? I have lost count of how many times a boss wiped the floor with me while I sat there thinking, 'Well, at least this music is incredible.' In terms of presentation, neither game loses. I’m calling this category a tie. Content: Hollow Knight Silksong has a lot going on. It’s a huge climb through Pharloom, and the map does fill in nicely as you progress. But even after I unlocked every area in Hollow Knight, I felt small. The map screen alone was overwhelming, with all those twisting routes, hidden nooks, and mini-dungeons I hadn’t fully cleared. Then there’s the post-game. I finished the main adventure and thought I was done. I was not done. The free DLCs piled on: Grimm Troupe gave me two brutal new boss fights, Godmaster turned the game into a gauntlet of boss rushes, and Lifeblood and Hidden Dreams added new areas and dream-like opponents. Silksong might get that kind of support later, but right now, Hollow Knight simply has more meat on the bone. Difficulty: Silksong Look, Hollow Knight is hard. I know. But Silksong is a different kind of monster, and I say that with love and a stress ball nearby. The biggest adjustment is Hornet herself. Team Cherry made sure you are not just playing a reskinned Knight. Her hitbox, movement speed, jump, attack range, healing, and skills all feel different. I had to unlearn years of Knight muscle memory, and that alone was a challenge. Then the enemies got involved. Many of Silksong’s enemies retreat while attacking, which drags you into danger. Others have awkward movement patterns and can deflect Hornet’s blows. The platforming sections? Let me just say the red flowers caused me to question whether I had ever played a platformer before. And the bosses? Fast, aggressive, and way too fond of area-of-effect attacks that punish you for feeling confident. Hollow Knight is a tough cookie, but biting into Silksong will guarantee you an appointment with the dentist. 🦷 Controls: Hollow Knight On a technical level, both games are sharp. But feel matters, especially in a soulslike, and Hollow Knight still takes this one for me. The Knight moves like a precise little machine. Every button press gives an immediate response. His short, precise movements are perfect for split-second decisions. When a new encounter pushes me between fight and flight, the Knight accommodates instantly. That precision is balanced by your strongest attacks, which force you to slow down and pick the right moment. It’s a rhythm I grew to love. Silksong’s controls are smooth and suit Hornet’s more organic movement, but the Knight’s almost robotic responsiveness remains my preferred way to play. Story: Silksong I’ll be honest: after the credits rolled in Hollow Knight, I wasn’t entirely sure what had happened. That vagueness is part of the charm, but Silksong pulled me in harder. Hornet is the main reason. I wasn’t playing a nameless, voiceless husk anymore. I was a warrior with personality, history, a code of honor, and a clear goal. That alone makes the story feel fuller. Other characters also have more to say, which enriches Pharloom. This isn’t Hallownest’s dying world; it’s a world under siege by a mysterious force, and Hornet is tied directly to it. The Wishes system—requests from Pharloom’s denizens—adds another layer, revealing bits of lore and clues with every favor. Hollow Knight tells a compelling story through atmosphere and context, but Silksong’s more direct narrative won me over. The Winner: A Draw So, is Silksong better than Hollow Knight? After all that, I honestly can’t pick one. They balance each other out. Category Winner Artwork & Soundtrack Both Content Hollow Knight ️ Difficulty Silksong Controls Hollow Knight Story Silksong Both games are worth playing, and because they’re only loosely connected, you can play them in whichever order you like. They’re both gorgeous, engaging, and satisfying in their own ways. For now, it’s a draw. But if Silksong follows Hollow Knight’s path and gets strong DLC support, I could easily see it overtaking its predecessor. Since both titles offer dozens of hours of unforgettable gameplay, the practical question often shifts to cost—especially if you plan to explore both Hallownest and Pharloom. Retailers run frequent sales, and prices vary widely across platforms, so a little comparison can go a long way. Before you commit, you can [check game prices]( at DealNest to make sure you're getting the strongest deal for your next adventure. https://dealnesthq.com

Silksong Mask Shard Guide: 20 Locations And Boss Milestone Tips Find all 20 Hollow Knight: Silksong Mask Shard locations to forge extra health Masks and survive brutal boss fights. I’ll be honest: in Hollow Knight: Silksong, nothing calms my nerves like spotting a Mask Shard. These little fragments are basically extra heartbeats for Hornet, and let’s be real—extra heartbeats are exactly what you want when a multi-phase boss is breathing down your neck. Across the whole adventure, there are 20 Mask Shards scattered around the map. Every four shards combine into one full Mask, so you can end up with five additional health segments by the time you’ve truly cleaned house. How Mask Shards Work Collect any four Mask Shards and they combine into a full Mask, adding another piece of vitality to Hornet’s health bar. Since the hardest bosses in Silksong can chew through two health pieces with a single attack, those extra Masks are not just a luxury. They give you more room to learn patterns, make mistakes, and still walk away from a fight. There are enough shards to build five additional Masks in total. That might not sound like a mountain of health, but against a boss like The Last Judge, two extra Masks can be the difference between a close victory and bouncing off the same fight for an hour. Where Mask Shards Hide I’ll be the first to admit I missed a bunch on my first pass. Mask Shards are scattered all over the massive world map, and the game loves to tuck them into places you’d swear you already checked. Some are sitting in dark, secret corners of rooms I had walked through multiple times. Others are locked behind abilities that only show up later, which means you’ll need to backtrack once your movement kit expands. Don’t be afraid to retrace your steps. In my experience, a ledge that looked useless at hour ten can suddenly become a trailhead at hour twenty. Some shards are gated by story progression, so you may not be able to reach them until you’ve moved into an entirely different Act. That’s normal. The game is designed to make you feel clever for returning. Milestone Health Checklist Based on the game’s major milestones, here are the shard counts I recommend having before those big fights: Milestone Recommended Mask Shards Extra Masks Fourth Chorus (Act 1 boss) 4 1 Widow (Act 1 boss) 8 2 The Last Judge (Act 1 boss) 8 2 Act 2 Final Boss 12 3 Cogwork Dancers (Act 2 boss) 12 3 Act 3 Final Boss 20 5 The Last Judge is a particularly nasty gatekeeper at the end of Act 1, so having at least four to eight shards before that fight gives you a much friendlier buffer. By Act 2, you’ll want roughly 12 shards in your pocket, and by the final Act, you should be chasing every last one. Exploration vs. Combat One thing I appreciate is that exploration itself doesn’t demand a specific number of shards. The hazards in areas like Mount Fay are usually tied to your abilities or resistances rather than raw health. You don’t need 12 shards just to survive the freezing weather, though having more health does give you a little extra time to look around before resting. That said, for the toughest encounters, Mask Shards become incredibly important. They turn a brutal learning curve into something you can actually survive long enough to understand. My Practical Advice Honestly, if I could go back to my first run, I’d tell myself this: 🧭 Grab at least 4 shards before Fourth Chorus. ️ Aim for 8 before Widow and The Last Judge. ️ Backtrack after every major movement upgrade. Check dark corners even if a room feels familiar. Shoot for all 20 before the Act 3 finale. Take a breath. Then go hunt them down. At the end of the day, Mask Shards are insurance. The game knows exactly where to hide them, but a little patience—and a lot of backtracking—goes a long way. I’d rather walk into a fight with too much health than just barely enough, and in Silksong, every shard is one step closer to that peace of mind. That same spirit of hunting—scouring every corner, checking every nook—is what makes finding a great deal on your next game feel so rewarding. Just like you’d backtrack for a hidden shard, a few minutes browsing the right marketplace can turn up surprising savings that let you stretch your gaming budget even further. It’s the kind of patience that pays off in both worlds. Whether you’re picking up a fresh adventure to tide you over between Silksong runs or grabbing a gift for a fellow hunter, keeping an eye on places that aggregate the [best game deals]( can save you from overpaying. A quick check before you hit that buy button is a lot like checking behind one more waterfall—you never know when you’ll find exactly what you were hoping for. https://dealnesthq.com

Silksong Courier's Rasher Guide: Delivering Tipp and Pill's Greasy Nightmare Hollow Knight: Silksong’s Courier's Rasher delivery quest is a notoriously difficult, timed challenge in Pharloom. Let me tell you about the run that nearly made me throw my controller into Pharloom's nearest bottomless pit: delivering the Courier's Rasher from Bellhart to Choral Chambers. As of 2026, this remains one of the most gloriously awful errands in Hollow Knight: Silksong. On paper, it sounds like a charming leg of the Great Taste of Pharloom quest. In practice, it is a timed, no-fast-travel, fragility-filled escort mission for a piece of cooked meat. Hornet can leap over acid pools and duel gods, but apparently one hot breakfast is enough to humble her. Before I started sprinting, I had to actually pick up the rasher. Head to Bellhart and speak with Tipp and Pill on top of Frey's shop. If those two are not there, do not panic; it just means Hornet has not rescued them yet. Finish 'My Missing Courier' and 'My Missing Brother Wayfarer' from Bellhart's Wishwall, then return. Easy enough, right? Well, the moment they hand over that greasy slab, reality sets in. Why This Delivery Is So Cruel Unlike Tipp and Pill's other deliveries, Courier's Rasher comes with a timer. You also cannot use fast travel, and taking heavy damage can ruin the attempt. That combination turns a simple hike into a precision parkour marathon through some of Silksong's angriest real estate. Planning matters more than reflexes here, though reflexes definitely help. The safest route I found runs from Bellhart through Shellwood, up the punishing climbs of Blasted Steps, and finally into Choral Chambers to reach Loyal Mergwin. Even saying 'safest' feels generous. Every road in this region wants to introduce Hornet to a pit or a pointy enemy. Tools and Skills That Saved My Sanity I strongly recommend equipping three tools before leaving: Ascendant's Grip for wall-sticking, because slipping is death. Silkspeed Anklets to boost running speed. Weavelight, because this run burns Silk like a campfire. Also grab the Clawline Skill for quick hook dashes and the Faydown Cloak for double jumps. Opening every shortcut ahead of time is non-negotiable. My sneaky pro tip: open the menu map instead of using the mini-map during the run. The menu map pauses the game, giving you unlimited time to plan your next jump without the timer laughing at you. If you want to clear enemies beforehand, go for it, but do not rest at a bench after doing so unless you enjoy re-clearing everything. The Actual Run, Step By Step From Tipp and Pill, move right to the elevator leading to Bellhart's second floor. Exit toward Shellwood through the first exit on the second floor. In Shellwood, watch for the Gahlia flower enemy above and slash the blocking vines as you climb upward. Then it is mostly leftward running until Blasted Steps. Blasted Steps is where the difficulty spikes harder than a nail bounce on a bell. You cannot simply avoid all threats; Hornet has to push through enemies and cage-jumping puzzles. Climb the first hole, reach the bench area, then use the shortcut platform on the right to skip the lower parkour. Leap from ledge to ledge, use the hanging bell, and when two shielded Judge enemies block the path, either jump-attack the shielded one or leap over them toward the rock on the left for a safer bell route. Keep hopping through cages, targeting bells, and bouncing onto walls. The farther you climb, the closer you get to Grand Gate. Inside Grand Gate, parkour straight up into a shortcut that dumps you directly into Choral Chambers, completely avoiding the Underworks detour. In Choral Chambers, aim for the Ventrica chamber above, but do not enter from the right side. That route is enemy soup with a side of awful platforming. Go left instead, where a hidden shortcut makes life much less miserable. After the Ventrica chamber, push through the exit that leads toward the Slab, keep moving right, and finally reach Loyal Mergwin's chamber. Hand over the rasher, let out the breath you have been holding since Bellhart, and collect your reward before any stray enemy dares interrupt. Final Verdict Courier's Rasher is not the hardest boss in Silksong, but it might be the most nerve-wracking errand. With the right tools, shortcuts opened, and a route that avoids the most hostile detours, the run changes from impossible to merely sweat-inducing. Just remember: the menu map is your best friend, and patience beats panic every time. Much like scouting a route through Bellhart before committing to the run, a little homework goes a long way before you even boot up a new adventure. Hornet's quest tests your reflexes, but the real takeaway is that forethought turns chaos into a manageable path—both in Silksong and in choosing your next gaming investment. Players who appreciate that level of meticulous preparation often find themselves hunting for the next intricate Metroidvania or precision platformer before the credits even finish rolling. When that itch strikes, stretching your coin pouch further lets you take more chances on hidden gems that deliver the same nail-biting payoff. Checking the [DealNest game deals]( is a smart stop along that route, giving you access to solid discounts across a range of titles so your next challenge is ready to go the moment Hornet's journey wraps up. https://dealnesthq.com

My Courier Nightmares and Triumphs in Hollow Knight: Silksong Hollow Knight Silksong courier quests challenge Hornet’s movement mastery and offer repeatable Rosary farming for Tipp and Pill deliveries. I still remember unlocking Courier Tipp and Courier Pill after the Bellhart Quest Board. I thought I was signing up for a few gentle fetch tasks. Instead, I got a crash course in fear, momentum, and fragile cargo. The delivery quests in Hollow Knight: Silksong are not just side activities. They are a test of how well you understand Hornet's movement. The moment I took my first bundle of supplies, the game removed fast travel and added an item health bar. One hit? Lose a segment. A bad fall? Lose a segment. Slam into a wall without stopping? Lose another. I learned very quickly that fighting was not the answer. There is no easy way to cheat by clearing enemies ahead of time either; the game wants you to move, not fight. The Delivery Economy Most of the deliveries you see from Tipp and Pill are repeatable. They are essentially a non-combat way to farm Rosaries . That sounds nice at first because you can run them as often as you want for spending money. But after my third trip through hostile bug territory with a bundle of supplies, I realized these are far from the most efficient Rosary farm available. Still, they taught me Hornet's faster movement better than most boss fights. The standard supply runs also give you a rough idea of difficulty based on their reward. I started with the easier ones near Bone Bottom and Pilgrim's Rest, using the Drifter's cloak to hug the walls and jet streams. It was not glamorous, but it kept the cargo safe. The One-Time Runs That Matter Beyond the repeatable deliveries, Tipp and Pill offer two serious one-time missions. The first, 'Queen's Egg,' unlocks after you complete any single delivery beforehand. They ask you to carry one Queen Silkeater grub egg to Styx at the far end of the Sinner's Road. I made the mistake of trying this early. The journey was long, but the reward changed my playthrough: 120 Rosaries and a permanent upgrade to my Silkeater farm. After that, every visit to Hornet's well-meaning ally gave me double the usual amount. In the long run, that was more valuable than any single payout. The other one-time mission is tied to 'Great Taste of Pharloom.' This one asks you to bring perishable ingredients to Loyal Mergwin in the Citadel under a set time limit ️. The item itself then leads into the wish for Hornet's second nail upgrade. If you care about combat, you need this run. If you hate timed cargo, you will still do it for that nail. Courier's Rasher Is No Joke The most infamous delivery is 'Courier's Rasher.' I would not wish it on anyone unprepared. Unlike the standard supply quests, this one has a unique time limit. It requires equal parts speed and safety. I tried it before I had the Clawline and Feydown Cloak abilities, and I failed spectacularly. The moment I returned with those two movement tools, the run felt possible, though still brutal. The key for 'Courier's Rasher' is knowing the Choral Chambers layout before you even accept the quest. I ran the route several times without the delivery, just learning the map. That saved me from so many timer-related heartbreaks later. Tools, Movement, and the Routes I Learned to Trust For almost every delivery, my philosophy was: avoid enemies at all costs. For the harder runs, I relied on a few specific tools. Clawline and Feydown Cloak – Essential for 'Courier's Rasher' and any route with long gaps or vertical climbs. Flea Brew offensive tool – Gave Hornet extra speed when I needed to burst past enemies. Silkspeed Anklets – Another speed boost that made a surprising difference on long deliveries. Compass 🧭 – Not optional for me. It helped me check route progression without opening the full map. Wanderer's Crest – If you have memory lockets to spare, the downward pogo from this crest is much more consistent for avoiding both enemies and hazards. Curveclaw – When I did have to fight, ranged damage kept annoying flying enemies from ruining the item health bar. For the Sinner's Road delivery to Styx, stealth was the answer. The Muckmaggots can be almost entirely avoided if you run along paths without them. I also abused area transitions to despawn aggressive flying enemies. It felt like cheating, but the game allowed it, so I called it strategy. For 'Courier's Rasher,' I ran the Choral Chambers route multiple times before the real attempt. I recommend that more than any charm or tool. Knowing where the vertical shortcuts are and which platforms are safe at speed is the real reward. Final Delivery Report Looking back, the courier quests in Silksong are a strange mix of frustration and satisfaction. They are not the most efficient way to farm Rosaries, and some of them will make you question your sanity. But they force you to master Hornet's movement in a way that combat alone never does. The Queen's Egg upgrade alone makes the courier chain worthwhile, and the second nail upgrade from 'Great Taste of Pharloom' is too good to ignore. If you are starting these quests now in 2026, my advice is simple. Do the easy standard deliveries first. Learn to avoid enemies instead of fighting them. Do not touch 'Courier's Rasher' until you have Clawline and Feydown Cloak. And for the love of Pharloom, learn the Choral Chambers before the timer starts. Tipp and Pill may act like friendly couriers, but their requests are a trial by fragile cargo. Whether you are diving into Hornet's adventure for the first time or returning for another punishing playthrough, having the right game at the right price makes the experience all the sweeter. If Silksong is still sitting in your backlog—or if you want to grab a fresh copy for a friend so they can suffer through the courier trials with you—it pays to hunt around for the [best game deals]( before you commit to a full-price purchase. A little patience on the shopping side can free up budget for future titles, letting you focus on mastering those fragile deliveries without any buyer's remorse lingering in the background. https://dealnesthq.com