Welcome to our comprehensive Hollow Knight Achievement Guide! If you’re eager to master the hauntingly beautiful world of Hallownest, look no further. This guide is designed to help you unlock every achievement, whether you’re aiming for a General Achievement Walkthrough, gearing up for the intense Steel Soul mode, striving for True Completion, racing against time in Speed Completion, or conquering the ultimate challenge of the Pantheon of Hallownest. Let’s dive in and embark on this thrilling journey to achieve 100% completion in one of the most beloved Metroidvania games of all time!

General Achievement Walkthrough#

Hollow Knight is a beautifully intricate game full of challenges, secrets, and achievements to unlock. With our guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the ultimate Hollow Knight master! Here’s a rundown of some key achievements and how to snag them.

Environmental Achievements#

1. Charmed

   • Description: Acquire your first Charm.
   • Guide: Early in the game, you’ll find your first charm in the Forgotten Crossroads. Simply explore the area and you should stumble upon it.

2. Enchanted

   • Description: Collect 10 Charms.
   • Guide: Keep an eye out throughout Hallownest. Charms can be bought from Salubra in the Forgotten Crossroads or found in various locations as you progress.

Combat Achievements#

1. Falsehood

   • Description: Defeat the False Knight.
   • Guide: The False Knight is located in the Forgotten Crossroads. He’s your first real boss, so hit him whenever he exposes his face and dodge his overhead smashes.

2. Test of Resolve

   • Description: Defeat Hornet in Greenpath.
   • Guide: This fast-moving enemy requires patience. Focus on avoiding her needle attacks and strike when you see an opening. Victory will come with practice.

Exploration Achievements#

1. Seeker

   • Description: Reunite with all the Grubs in the game.
   • Guide: These little worm-like creatures are hidden in almost every area. Use your map and listen for their cries. They’re usually behind breakable walls or hidden paths.

2. Connection

   • Description: Open half of the Stag Stations.
   • Guide: Stag Stations act like fast travel points. You’ll find them scattered throughout Hallownest. Make sure to visit each new area and unlock these stations for easier travel.

Collection Achievements#

1. Solace

   • Description: Collect 600 Essence and use Dream Nail on Seer.
   • Guide: Essence is collected by defeating Dream Warriors and Whispering Roots. It adds up quickly, so keep an eye out for glowing trees and ethereal enemies.

2. Witness

   • Description: Defeat all Dreamers.
   • Guide: Dreamers are key figures you need to locate and defeat to reach the true ending. They are protected by various mini-challenges and bosses. Persevere, and you will find them.

Completion Achievements#

1. Completion

   • Description: Achieve 100% game completion.
   • Guide: This involves collecting all Charms, Mask Shards, Vessel Fragments, and defeating all bosses. Thorough exploration and a bit of patience will get you there.

2. Radiance

   • Description: Defeat the Radiance.
   • Guide: The Radiance is arguably the toughest boss in Hollow Knight. Precise timing, keen observation, and mastering the platforming mechanics are key. Don’t give up; practice makes perfect.

Tips to Remember#

• Explore Everywhere: Hallownest hides many secrets in its nooks and crannies. Return to previously visited areas with new abilities to uncover hidden paths and items.
• Upgrade Your Gear: Visit the Nail Smith in the City of Tears to upgrade your nail, giving you stronger attacks.
• Mind Your Coins (Geo): Save up Geo to buy essential items like map markers, which help in locating important spots.
• Patience is Key: Some areas and bosses may seem impossible at first. Take breaks, learn patterns, and keep improving.

With our guide, you’re now armed with the knowledge needed to tackle Hollow Knight’s challenges and earn those achievements. Happy exploring, brave Knight!

Steel Soul#

So, you’ve mastered Hollow Knight and conquered the challenges of Hallownest. Ready to take it to the next level with Steel Soul mode? Buckle up, because this mode is no joke! Steel Soul mode is the game’s permadeath version—it’s not for the faint of heart. One wrong move, and it’s game over. Let’s dive into some tips and strategies to help you survive and thrive.

What is Steel Soul Mode?#

Steel Soul mode is unlocked after completing the game once. In this mode, if you die, your save file gets deleted. That means no respawns, no second chances, and your adventures in Hallownest will be for naught if you slip up. However, Steel Soul mode isn’t just about surviving; it’s also about flexing those hardcore gaming muscles. You’ll earn exclusive achievements and the bragging rights that come with them.

Preparing for Steel Soul#

Before diving into this harrowing mode, here’s what you should do:

1. Know the Game Inside Out: This might sound obvious, but make sure you’ve explored every nook and cranny of Hallownest. Be familiar with enemy patterns, boss fights, and secret areas.
2. Upgrade Your Gear: Fully upgrading your nail and collecting as many charms as possible can make a huge difference. Essential charms include Quick Focus, Unbreakable Strength, and Shaman Stone.
3. Practice Makes Perfect: Replay tough areas and boss fights until you can clear them without breaking a sweat. Remember, muscle memory is your friend.

Early Game Strategy#

The beginning might seem manageable, but complacency can be your downfall.

• Focus on Health: Collect as many Mask Shards as quickly as possible to increase your health.
• Gather Geo: You’ll need Geo for charms and upgrades, so don’t shy away from planting your nail in as many enemies as possible.

Mid-Game Essentials#

Once you’ve gained your bearings and upgraded, it’s time to tackle the mid-game areas.

• Prioritize Upgrades: Make sure to upgrade your nail and acquire critical abilities like the Mantis Claw, Monarch Wings, and Isma’s Tear.
• Watch Out for Traps: Areas like Deepnest and Kingdom’s Edge are rife with traps and tough enemies. Take your time and study patterns carefully.
• Bench Management: Always remember where your last bench was. Knowing when to backtrack can save you from a disastrous situation.

Boss Battles Tips#

Boss fights are the highlight of Hollow Knight, but in Steel Soul mode, they’re the ultimate test of your skills.

• Know Their Patterns: Every boss has a pattern. Take advantage of your prior knowledge to anticipate moves and dodge accurately.
• Patience is Key: Don’t rush. Wait for the right opportunities to strike.
• Use Your Charms: Equip charms suited to each boss fight. For example, Quick Focus is invaluable if you need quick heals, while Shaman Stone boosts your nail arts dramatically.

Late Game Tactics#

Conquering the end game is where many falter. Here’s how to stay on track:

• Final Upgrades: Before tackling the final bosses, make sure you’re fully upgraded. This means the Pure Nail, maximum health, and an optimized charm loadout.
• Dream Nail Ritual: Collect Essence and face the tougher dream fights. This not only helps with upgrades but also prepares you for the intense final battles.
• Stay Calm: Nerves can get to you in Steel Soul mode. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and come back with a clear mind.

Final Words of Encouragement#

Steel Soul mode is the ultimate challenge for any Hollow Knight player. It’s as nerve-wracking as it is rewarding. While the threat of permadeath looms large, remember that every failure is a learning opportunity. Stay persistent, keep honing your skills, and eventually, you’ll join the ranks of those who’ve conquered Hallownest in the most brutal way possible. Good luck, and nail them all!

True Completion#

Getting “True Completion” in Hollow Knight is a pretty big deal. It’s not just about beating the game; it’s about doing everything. This means you need to explore every nook, beat every boss, find all the collectibles, and master some of the most challenging content Team Cherry has thrown at you. Here’s a breakdown to help you on your journey to 112% completion.

Defeating All Bosses#

In Hollow Knight, you’ll face 47 bosses in total. Some are part of the main storyline, while others are hidden or optional. Here are a few you definitely don’t want to miss:

• Radiance (final boss): Found in the Pantheon of Hallownest.
• Nightmare King Grimm: Complete the Grimm Troupe DLC and choose to fight him instead of banishing the troupe.
• Grey Prince Zote: This fight is unlocked after rescuing Zote and defeating him repeatedly in Dirtmouth.

Collecting All Charms#

There are 45 charms scattered throughout the game, and each offers a unique benefit. Some are easier to find, while others require defeating tough enemies or solving puzzles. Highlights include:

• Unbreakable Strength: Offers a massive attack boost. Upgrade from Fragile Strength by paying Divine in the Grimm Troupe DLC.
• Grubberfly’s Elegy: Obtain this by collecting all 46 Grubs.
• Void Heart: Essential for accessing the path to the true final boss.

Completing The Godmaster DLC#

Godmaster brings a ton of new content, including boss rushes and the Pantheon of Hallownest. To get to 112%, you need to:

• Finish all four Pantheons.
• Unlock and defeat the boss in the Pantheon of Hallownest.

Acquiring All Mask Shards#

Throughout Hallownest, you will find Mask Shards. Collecting four Mask Shards gives you an extra health mask. For 112% completion, you need to find all 16 Mask Shards, equating to 4 additional health masks.

Gathering All Vessel Fragments#

There are 9 Vessel Fragments in the game, and collecting three for each Vessel adds to your Soul meter. Hence, you need all 9 Vessel Fragments to maximize your soul capacity.

Completing all Dream Warriors and Dream Bosses#

Dream Warriors and Dream Bosses are ethereal versions of existing enemies or NPCs that you fight using the Dream Nail. They include:

• Elder Hu
• Gorb
• Xero
• Galien
• Marmu
• No Eyes
• Markoth

Finishing All Colosseum of Fools Trials#

The Colosseum of Fools, located in the Kingdom’s Edge, offers three challenging trials: the Trial of the Warrior, the Trial of the Conqueror, and the Trial of the Fool. Completing all three is necessary for true completion.

Collecting All Journal Entries#

You need to fill up your Hunter’s Journal entirely. This involves defeating enemies multiple times until the journal marks them as complete. Some entries require specific tactics or items, so paying attention to their location and weaknesses will save you time.

Acquiring All Essence#

You need to obtain at least 2400 Essence by using the Dream Nail on enemies, finding Whispering Roots, and defeating Dream Warriors and Dream Bosses. This also includes defeating the White Defender and the Failed Champion (dream versions of standard bosses).

Locating All Grubs#

Finding all 46 Grubs hidden in breakable walls, behind secret paths, or placed in plain sight but guarded by enemies is another requirement. As a reward, you will get Grubberfly’s Elegy Charm.

Uncover All Maps#

Cartographer Cornifer sells maps in various areas of Hallownest. Ensure you’ve purchased all available maps and revealed all regions. Talking to his wife Iselda in Dirtmouth can help fill missing sections.

Tips For 112% Completion#

• Explore Thoroughly: Leave no stone unturned. Hallownest is dense with secrets.
• Backtrack: Revisit areas with new abilities. There might be places you couldn’t access initially.
• Prepare for Boss Fights: Some bosses are extremely tough. Practice makes perfect.
• Grind Smart, Not Hard: Don’t waste time farming enemies for essence. Focus on defeating Dream Bosses and Warriors.
• Stay Equipped: Use charms that complement your playstyle and the challenges you’re facing.

Getting to 112% completion is a truly grand way to experience all of what Hollow Knight offers. So take your time, savor the journey, and let the spirit of exploration guide you. Good luck!

Speed Completion: A Fast-Track Guide#

If you’re aiming for the elusive speed completion achievement in Hollow Knight, you’re in the right place! This guide will help you finish the game lickety-split, whether you’re aiming for a casual run or a pro-level speedrun. Here’s everything you need to know to zip through Hallownest like a knight on a mission.

Plan Your Route#

The first step to a successful speedrun is mapping out your route. You don’t want to wander aimlessly! Focus on essential bosses and skip optional content:

1. Start at the Forgotten Crossroads: Head to the False Knight first. You need the City Crest from him.
2. Greenpath: Your next target is the Hornet. Defeat her to get the Mothwing Cloak, which unlocks the dash ability.
3. Fungal Wastes -> Mantis Village: Grab the Mantis Claw to wall jump.
4. City of Tears: Beat the Soul Master to get the Desolate Dive.

Essential Skills and Upgrades#

While avoiding distractions, you’ll need certain skills to progress quickly. Here are must-haves:

• Mothwing Cloak: Dash for quicker movement.
• Mantis Claw: Climb walls—vital for faster travel.
• Desolate Dive: Break floors and deal heavy damage.
• Monarch Wings (optional): Double jump can be a lifesaver.

Charms and Nail Upgrades#

Pick up these boosts to make your journey smoother:

• Quick Focus: Heal faster during boss fights.
• Shaman Stone: Amplify spell damage.
• Nail Upgrades: At least get one or two upgrades from the Nailsmith in the City of Tears.

Boss Strategies#

You’re going to face several bosses. Knowing how to beat them quickly can save tons of time:

• False Knight: Use quick attacks and spells. Don’t waste time dodging if you can take hits and heal later.
• Hornet: Keep close and only dash when evading her needle throws.
• Soul Master: Watch for his fake-outs and slam attacks. Use Desolate Dive for extra damage.
• Watchers Knights: It’s often faster to deal with them if you have Spells and Desolate Dive.

Optimize Movement#

Movement optimization is key. Rolling, dashing, and pogoing off enemies help you travel faster. Here are a few tips:

• Nail pogo on enemies and hazards: Time it right to gain extra height and continue moving forward.
• Use dash: Keep dashing forward whenever possible.
• Save Bench time: Only rest at benches if you need to heal or update your map.

Benchmarks for Success#

Set time targets for each section:

• First 20 minutes: Beat False Knight and get to Greenpath.
• First hour: Defeat Hornet and acquire Mantis Claw.
• One and a half hours: Reach and take down Soul Master.
• Around the two-hour mark: Successfully navigate the Watcher’s Spire and collect Dreamers.

Practice, Practice, Practice#

Speedruns need practice. Play through a few times to memorize the route. Learn boss patterns and hone your jumps and dashes. The more you play, the smoother your run will be.

Final Tips#

• Stay calm: Speedruns can be stressful. Don’t let small mistakes throw you off.
• Watch others: Check out speedrun videos for new techniques and shortcuts.
• Have fun: It’s a game, after all. Enjoy the adrenaline rush of a well-executed run.

With these strategies in hand, you’re ready to conquer the Hollow Knight speed completion challenge. Prepare yourself, Knight—you’ve got a high-speed adventure ahead! Happy speeding!

Pantheon of Hallownest#

The Pantheon of Hallownest is the ultimate challenge for any Hollow Knight player. Located in the Godhome area, this pantheon tests your skills by pitting you against every boss in the game, including some special variations. Buckle up, because this is not for the faint of heart!

Getting to Godhome#

First things first, you need to access Godhome. Here’s what you gotta do:

1. Find Junk Pit in the Royal Waterways.
2. Use a Simple Key on the mysterious cocoon to release the Godseeker.
3. Use the Godtuner to open the portal to Godhome.

The Pantheon Structure#

The Pantheon of Hallownest is the final and most difficult pantheon, featuring essentially every boss in the game. It’s a long, grueling marathon, requiring precision, patience, and lots of practice. Here’s a breakdown:

• Boss Rush: You’ll face a gauntlet of every major boss in the game.
• No Benches: No place to sit and heal your soul during the pantheon, so manage your health wisely.
• New Bosses: Watch out for exclusive new bosses and souped-up versions of familiar faces.

Essential Charms#

Preparation is key. Equip yourself with charms that boost your survivability and versatility. Here are some must-haves:

• Mark of Pride or Longnail: Extends your nail’s reach, giving you better control over spacing.
• Shaman Stone: Increases spell damage, handy for bosses weak to spells.
• Quick Slash: Speeds up your nail attack, necessary for multi-hit combat.
• Unbreakable Strength: Greatly boosts nail damage, making fights quicker.
• Grimmchild (optional): Provides additional damage and distraction.

Strategies and Tips#

Practice Runs: Before diving into the Pantheon of Hallownest, get comfortable with all its bosses by practicing in earlier pantheons or in the Hall of Gods.

Know Your Bosses: Each boss has distinct patterns and weaknesses. Study their moves so you can avoid hits and strike efficiently.

Soul Management: Keep an eye on your soul meter. Use spells for damage but always keep a backup amount for healing when necessary.

Patience is Key: Rushing headfirst will likely get you killed. Focus on dodging attacks and wait for safe openings to strike back.

Learn from Defeats: Each defeat makes you better. Learn boss patterns, memorize attack timings, and develop a strategy that works for you.

Reward for Conquest#

Beating the Pantheon of Hallownest is no small feat and the rewards are equally grand. You unlock lore, achievements, and the satisfying sense of conquering one of the toughest challenges in gaming. Plus, showing off that ultimate pantheon completion screen is always a good flex!

Conclusion#

Conquering the Pantheon of Hallownest is a testament to your skills as a Hollow Knight player. It requires mastery over the game’s mechanics and a thorough understanding of each boss’s patterns. So, gear up, keep practicing, and get ready to face the toughest trials in all of Hallownest!