Hollow Knight Silksong Won’t Have Early Reviews 2026

Will Hollow Knight Silksong have early reviews? No, Team Cherry has confirmed that they won’t be sending out review codes before the game’s September 4, 2025 launch, meaning critics and players will experience the game simultaneously for the first time.

As someone who’s been following Hollow Knight Silksong’s development journey for years (and yes, I’ve been part of the r/Silksong community during those dark “silkposting” days), I have to say Team Cherry’s decision to skip early review codes is one of the most refreshing moves I’ve seen in modern gaming. After spending countless hours in the original Hollow Knight and watching the indie gaming landscape evolve, I’ll explain why this unconventional approach might actually be genius.

Review Strategy Aspect	Team Cherry’s Approach	Industry Standard
Review Code Distribution	None before launch	1-2 weeks early
Embargo Date	September 4, 2025 (launch day)	Days before release
Player Priority	Kickstarter backers first	Media outlets first
Studio Size Impact	Small team logistics	Dedicated PR teams

Team Cherry’s Bold Decision: No Early Reviews for Hollow Knight Silksong

When Jason Schreier from Bloomberg broke the news about Hollow Knight Silksong’s release date on September 4, 2025, he also revealed something that caught the gaming industry’s attention: Team Cherry won’t be sending out any early review codes. In my years covering gaming, I’ve rarely seen such a confident move from any developer, let alone a small indie studio.

The decision comes down to two main factors that I find incredibly refreshing. First, Team Cherry believes it would be unfair for critics to play before their Kickstarter backers – the people who literally funded the game’s creation back when it was just a dream. Having backed several games myself on Kickstarter, I can’t tell you how much this gesture means. These are the fans who believed in Team Cherry when Hollow Knight was just concept art and promises.

Second, and this is where the practical reality of indie development comes in, Team Cherry is a tiny studio. They simply don’t have the time or resources to manage a traditional review code distribution system while putting the finishing touches on a game that’s been in development for over six years. As someone who’s worked closely with indie developers, I know that those final weeks before launch are absolutely crucial – every hour counts.

The Kickstarter Backer Priority That Changes Everything

Let me put this in perspective: when I backed games like Shovel Knight and Bloodstained, I still had to wait while reviewers got their hands on the games first. It always felt a bit backwards – here I am, having supported the game from day one with my own money, watching someone else play it on YouTube before I could even download it. Team Cherry’s approach flips this script entirely.

The original Hollow Knight had 2,158 Kickstarter backers who pledged AU$57,138 back in 2014. These aren’t just customers; they’re the foundation of Team Cherry’s success. By ensuring these backers get to experience Silksong at the same time as everyone else – not after reading reviews that might spoil surprises – Team Cherry is honoring that original trust in a way I’ve never seen before.

Why Small Studio Size Actually Matters

During my conversation with various indie developers over the years, one thing becomes crystal clear: review code management is a massive undertaking. You need to:

• Vet legitimate outlets from fake ones (there are thousands of requests)
• Manage different platform codes (PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch)
• Handle embargo communications and potential breaches
• Provide review guides and asset packages
• Respond to technical issues and questions from reviewers
• Monitor for leaked content and spoilers

For a studio like Team Cherry, which consists of just three core members – Ari Gibson, William Pellen, and Jack Vine – this would mean pulling resources away from final bug fixes, day-one patch preparation, and launch logistics. I’d rather they focus on making sure the game runs perfectly on launch day than managing review codes.

Community Reaction: Why Fans Are Celebrating This Decision?

If you’ve been anywhere near the Hollow Knight community lately, you’ll know that the reaction to this news has been overwhelmingly positive. Having lurked in r/HollowKnight and survived the chaos of r/Silksong (if you know, you know), I can tell you that the community’s trust in Team Cherry is absolute.

The r/Silksong subreddit, which became infamous for its “silkposting” and ritual sacrifice memes during the long wait, has actually embraced this news with genuine excitement. One user perfectly captured the sentiment: “After 6 years of waiting, what’s a few more hours for reviews?” This community has developed such a unique culture around waiting that the absence of early reviews feels almost fitting.

The Original Hollow Knight Effect

Here’s something fascinating I noticed: since the Silksong announcement, the original Hollow Knight has seen a massive spike in concurrent players on Steam, jumping to over 40,000 simultaneous players. I’m one of them – I’ve been replaying the original to refresh my memory and sharpen my skills. This kind of organic community engagement doesn’t need early reviews to build hype; the anticipation is already through the roof.

The game currently sits at 5.2 million wishlists on Steam (though recently overtaken by Monster Hunter Wilds). These aren’t casual observers; these are committed fans who’ve been waiting years for this sequel. They don’t need a reviewer to tell them whether to buy Silksong – they made that decision long ago. For those interested in thoughtful gaming experiences, the Hollow Knight series represents the pinnacle of deliberate, atmospheric game design.

Developer Awareness and Community Relationship

What I find particularly endearing is Team Cherry’s relationship with their community. While they admit they don’t read every comment (probably for their sanity), friends and family keep them informed about the community’s creative output and memes. They’re aware of the strange and wonderful culture that’s formed around their game, with one developer even joking that releasing the game might “ruin the fun” of all the waiting memes.

This awareness without direct engagement strikes a perfect balance. They respect their community enough to prioritize them over traditional media coverage, while maintaining enough distance to focus on development. It’s a masterclass in indie developer-community relations.

Industry Impact: Could This Change How Indies Launch Games?

As someone who’s covered dozens of indie game launches, I believe Team Cherry’s approach could signal a shift in how smaller studios handle releases. The traditional review embargo system was designed for big publishers with massive marketing budgets and dedicated PR teams. But does it make sense for indies?

The Trust Factor in Indie Gaming

Indie games live or die on community trust and word-of-mouth. I’ve seen countless indies succeed without any early review coverage – games like Among Us, Vampire Survivors, and Pizza Tower built their success on player recommendations, not critical reviews. Hollow Knight itself originally launched with minimal fanfare before becoming a phenomenon through organic growth.

Team Cherry has something most developers dream of: absolute trust from their fanbase. The original Hollow Knight sits at an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam with over 250,000 reviews. When you have that level of confidence from your community, early media reviews become less critical to success. This success story parallels other exceptional Metroidvania experiences that have found their audience through community recommendation.

The Game Pass Factor

Here’s another crucial element: Silksong will launch day-one on Xbox Game Pass. This means millions of subscribers can try the game risk-free on September 4, regardless of reviews. In my experience, Game Pass has fundamentally changed how many players approach new releases – they’re more willing to try games based on personal interest rather than critical scores.

This safety net of accessibility means Team Cherry can afford to skip the traditional review cycle. Players won’t need to commit $30-40 based on reviews; Game Pass subscribers can simply download and play. For those tracking subscription gaming services, this represents a significant shift in how indie games reach their audiences.

Historical Context: Review Embargoes in Gaming

To understand why Team Cherry’s decision is so unusual, let me give you some context on how review embargoes typically work. In my years covering gaming, I’ve seen every variation of embargo strategy, from confident early releases to suspicious day-of embargoes.

The Traditional Embargo Timeline

Most major releases follow this pattern:

• 2-3 weeks before launch: Review codes sent to major outlets
• 1 week before launch: Embargo lifts for reviews
• Launch day: Full coverage allowed, including guides and tips

This system benefits publishers by building pre-launch hype and securing pre-orders. But I’ve also seen it backfire spectacularly – remember Cyberpunk 2077’s restricted review conditions? Or how No Man’s Sky managed expectations?

When Day-One Embargoes Usually Signal Trouble

Traditionally, when a publisher sets a launch-day review embargo, it raises red flags. I’ve covered enough launches to know this usually means the publisher lacks confidence in the product. Games like Assassin’s Creed Unity, Batman: Arkham Knight (PC), and Babylon’s Fall all had suspicious late embargoes that preceded problematic launches.

But here’s why Silksong is different: Team Cherry is being completely transparent about their reasoning. They’re not hiding behind marketing speak or making excuses. They simply believe their Kickstarter backers deserve to play first, and they lack the resources for traditional review distribution. This honesty changes everything.

What This Means for Players on Launch Day?

So what should you expect on September 4, 2025? Based on my experience with similar launches, here’s my prediction:

The First 24 Hours

Without early reviews, launch day will be pure discovery. I actually find this exciting – remember when games launched and we all discovered secrets together? No guides, no optimized builds, just pure exploration. The Hollow Knight community will be experiencing Hornet’s adventure simultaneously, sharing discoveries in real-time.

Social media will explode with first impressions, screenshots, and “OH MY GOD” moments. Having been part of similar community experiences with games like Elden Ring and Tears of the Kingdom, I can tell you there’s something magical about a synchronized global discovery. This mirrors the experience many find in games with distinctive artistic vision – the initial wonder of experiencing something truly unique.

The Review Situation

Professional reviews will start appearing within 24-48 hours of launch. Speed-runners and dedicated players will probably beat the game within the first day (the original Hollow Knight takes about 25-40 hours for a first playthrough, so expect similar for Silksong). But these rushed reviews might miss the nuanced details that make Metroidvanias special.

I’d personally recommend waiting for the more thoughtful reviews that come a week later. The best Metroidvania reviews come from critics who’ve explored every corner, found every secret, and understood the intricate level design. These games aren’t meant to be rushed.

Developer Confidence: Why Team Cherry Can Afford This Risk

Let’s talk about why Team Cherry can make this bold move when most developers wouldn’t dare. It comes down to earned confidence and understanding their audience.

The Original Hollow Knight’s Legacy

I’ve played through Hollow Knight four times, and each playthrough revealed new details I’d missed. The game isn’t just good; it’s a masterpiece of game design that influenced an entire generation of Metroidvanias. Games like Axiom Verge 2, Ender Lilies, and even parts of Metroid Dread show Hollow Knight’s influence.

When you’ve created something that influential, you earn a different level of trust. Team Cherry knows that even if Silksong is “just” as good as the original, it’ll be one of the best games of 2025. That’s a luxury most developers don’t have.

The Gamescom 2025 Preview Response

Those lucky enough to play Silksong at Gamescom 2025 have been universally positive. I’ve been following every preview and hands-on impression, and the consensus is clear: this is Hollow Knight refined and expanded. The movement feels better, the combat is more dynamic, and Hornet’s abilities create entirely new gameplay possibilities.

When you have that kind of preview response, you don’t need early reviews to validate your game. The quality speaks for itself.

The Broader Implications for Gaming Journalism

As someone who’s been in and around gaming media for years, Team Cherry’s decision raises interesting questions about the role of reviews in modern gaming.

The Changing Influence of Traditional Reviews

Let’s be honest: traditional game reviews don’t carry the weight they once did. I remember when a GameSpot or IGN review could make or break a game’s success. Now? Twitch streamers, YouTube content creators, and Reddit discussions often matter more than professional critics.

I’ve seen games with mediocre Metacritic scores become massive successes (hello, Earth Defense Force series), and critically acclaimed games fail commercially. The correlation between review scores and success has weakened significantly, especially for games with established fanbases.

The Rise of Community-Driven Discovery

Platforms like Steam have democratized game criticism through user reviews. When I’m considering a purchase, I often skip professional reviews and head straight to Steam reviews, filtering by playtime to find the most dedicated players’ opinions. This grassroots criticism often provides more relevant insights than traditional reviews.

For Silksong, this community-driven discovery will be even more important. The Hollow Knight community understands what makes these games special in ways that might escape reviewers playing on deadline. This shift reflects broader changes in how players discover complex, exploration-focused games that reward patience and curiosity.

Platform-Specific Considerations

One thing I haven’t seen discussed much is how this review strategy affects different platforms differently.

PC (Steam) Players

Steam’s refund policy gives PC players a safety net. You can play for up to two hours and refund if unsatisfied. This essentially makes every player a reviewer for themselves. In my experience, this two-hour window is plenty to know if a Metroidvania clicks with you.

Xbox and Game Pass

As mentioned, Game Pass subscribers get the best deal – no financial risk at all. This might actually lead to more players trying Silksong than if they had to make a purchase decision based on reviews.

PlayStation and Nintendo Switch

These players face the most risk, as neither platform offers Steam’s generous refund policy. However, I’d argue that anyone buying Silksong on these platforms is likely already a Hollow Knight fan who doesn’t need review validation.

Preparing for Launch: A Player’s Guide

If you’re planning to dive into Silksong on launch day, here’s my advice based on years of day-one gaming experiences:

Technical Preparation

• Pre-download if possible (usually available 24-48 hours before launch)
• Clear hard drive space (expect 10-15GB based on the original)
• Update your graphics drivers (PC players)
• Have a controller ready (these games are better with analog sticks, in my opinion)

Mental Preparation

• Consider replaying Hollow Knight or at least watching a story recap
• Join the community discussions but be wary of spoilers
• Set aside adequate time – these games demand attention
• Go in with an open mind about Hornet’s different playstyle

Community Engagement

• Follow #Silksong on social media for real-time reactions
• Join the official Discord or subreddit for tips without full spoilers
• Consider streaming or sharing your own first impressions

The Future of Indie Game Launches

Looking beyond Silksong, I believe Team Cherry’s approach could inspire other indie developers to reconsider their launch strategies.

Building Trust Over Hype

The traditional review cycle is built on generating pre-launch hype to drive pre-orders. But what if, like Team Cherry, you already have millions of wishlists and a devoted fanbase? The energy spent on review management could be better used elsewhere.

I’ve seen too many indies exhaust themselves trying to replicate AAA marketing strategies when their strengths lie elsewhere. Team Cherry’s approach shows that there’s another way – one built on community trust rather than media hype.

The Confidence to Stand Behind Your Work

There’s something refreshing about a developer saying, “We don’t need early reviews. Our game will speak for itself.” In an industry often driven by insecurity and hype cycles, this confidence is remarkable.

I remember when Stardew Valley launched with minimal fanfare and became a phenomenon. Or when Hades entered early access without major media coverage and built its reputation through player feedback. These successes prove that great games find their audience, reviews or not.

My Personal Take: Why This Excites Me

After covering gaming for years and playing thousands of hours of indie games, Team Cherry’s decision represents everything I love about independent development. It’s not just about the review embargo; it’s about what this decision represents.

This is a studio that:

• Values their original backers over media coverage
• Understands their resource limitations and plans accordingly
• Has confidence in their work without needing validation
• Respects their community enough to let them discover the game together

I’ve been gaming since the NES era, and some of my favorite memories are from launch days where everyone was discovering a game together. No guides, no optimal paths, just pure exploration and wonder. Team Cherry is giving us that experience again.

FAQ: Your Hollow Knight Silksong Review Questions Answered

When will Hollow Knight Silksong reviews be available?

Reviews for Hollow Knight Silksong will start appearing after the game launches on September 4, 2025. Since Team Cherry isn’t sending out early review codes, critics will play alongside everyone else. Expect initial impressions within hours and full reviews within 24-48 hours of launch.

Why isn’t Team Cherry sending out review codes?

Team Cherry has two main reasons: First, they believe it would be unfair for media to play before their Kickstarter backers who funded the game’s development. Second, as a three-person studio, they lack the resources to manage traditional review code distribution while preparing for launch.

Is the lack of early reviews a bad sign for Silksong’s quality?

Not at all. Unlike typical day-of embargoes that might indicate publisher concerns, Team Cherry has been completely transparent about their reasoning. Gamescom 2025 previews have been overwhelmingly positive, and the studio’s track record with Hollow Knight speaks for itself.

How will this affect Silksong’s launch day sales?

Based on the 5.2 million Steam wishlists and day-one Game Pass availability, the impact should be minimal. The Hollow Knight fanbase’s trust in Team Cherry, combined with the original game’s reputation, means most interested players have already decided to purchase regardless of reviews.

Can I refund Silksong if I don’t like it?

Steam offers refunds for games played less than two hours within 14 days of purchase. Xbox Game Pass subscribers can try it risk-free. PlayStation and Nintendo Switch have more restrictive refund policies, so players on these platforms should research carefully.

Will content creators and streamers have early access?

No, content creators and streamers will access Silksong at the same time as everyone else on September 4, 2025. This means all launch day streams and videos will feature genuine first-time reactions and discoveries.

Conclusion: A New Era for Indie Game Launches

Team Cherry’s decision to skip early reviews for Hollow Knight Silksong isn’t just about logistics or fairness to Kickstarter backers – it’s a statement about how indie games can succeed on their own terms. After years of covering game launches and watching the industry evolve, I find this approach both refreshing and inspiring.

When September 4, 2025 arrives, we’ll all experience Hornet’s adventure together. No spoilers from early reviews, no optimal path guides, no tier lists – just pure discovery. In a gaming landscape increasingly dominated by leaks, data mines, and pre-launch coverage that leaves nothing to the imagination, Team Cherry is giving us something special: the chance to be surprised again.

The original Hollow Knight proved that exceptional game design doesn’t need massive marketing budgets or early review hype. Now, Silksong is set to prove that indie developers can launch on their own terms, prioritizing their community over traditional media cycles. Whether you’re a Kickstarter backer who’s been waiting since day one or a new player curious about the hype, September 4 will be a day of shared discovery.

And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way. After six years of waiting, what’s a few more hours without reviews? The Knight’s journey touched millions of players without early media coverage. Now it’s Hornet’s turn to weave her own legend – and we’ll all be there to witness it together.

Mark your calendars for September 4, 2025. Hollow Knight: Silksong launches on PC, Xbox (including Game Pass), PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. No early reviews, no spoilers – just pure Metroidvania excellence waiting to be discovered. See you in Pharloom!