That tumultuous opening smooths out quickly, however, when you've explored enough of the game’s first main zone to meet someone (er, something) named Cornifer.

Everything else you’ll need to beat the 40+ hour game-even your map, that most basic of gaming conventions-must be scavenged, bought, stolen, or learned the hard way. The part-Metroidvania, part- Dark Souls platformer drops you into dirt and darkness with nothing but your basic weapon: your masked avatar’s trusty nail. The first few minutes of Hollow Knight set a remarkably turbulent tone.

Various NPCs offer different services, or just add to the eerie atmosphere.