Hollow Knight’s Forgotten Kingdom: Beneath the Surface of Hallownest

21 December 2025

If you’ve ever felt a tug of curiosity about the mysteries hiding underground or wondered what lies beneath the surface of an ancient, forgotten kingdom, Hollow Knight is the game that takes you there. It’s not just a game—it’s an entire world waiting for you to uncover its secrets. At its core lies Hallownest, a sprawling underground kingdom filled with lore, danger, and wonder. And trust me, this isn’t your average “hero goes on a journey” type of story. This is a journey into the unknown, a descent into an intricate web of life, decay, and history.

So, grab your nail (you’ll need it), and let’s dive into the dark, mysterious, and hauntingly beautiful world of Hallownest.

The Forgotten Majesty of Hallownest

At first glance, Hallownest is a desolate and crumbling kingdom. But dig a little deeper—literally—and you'll realize it’s much more than what meets the eye. This subterranean world was once a thriving civilization. Imagine a bustling city, now eerily silent, its inhabitants lost to time. If you've played Hollow Knight, you’ll notice how its atmosphere feels alive, as though the land itself remembers everything that has transpired. Creepy, right?

This eerie ambiance is no accident. Every corner of Hallownest feels intentional. The ruined architecture, decaying structures, and remnants of a once-functioning society tell a story. It’s a place that was alive but is now caught in limbo, slowly being reclaimed by nature and plagued by a mysterious infection.

The Layers of Hallownest: A Kingdom at Every Step

What makes Hallownest so captivating is its incredible design. It’s like peeling back the layers of an onion (except you won’t cry—well, maybe emotionally). The kingdom is divided into multiple interconnected areas, each with its own unique aesthetic, lore, and challenges. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic regions.

1. Dirtmouth: The Surface Gateway

Dirtmouth is the first area you encounter, and it seems quiet and unassuming. Think of it as the welcoming committee to Hallownest—a sleepy little village shrouded in mystery. But its silence is as loud as a drumbeat, hinting at the dangers lurking deeper below. Beneath this tranquil facade lies the entrance to a sprawling world that grows darker and more treacherous as you descend.

2. Greenpath: Where Life Clings On

Greenpath is a lush, overgrown area teeming with plant life and stunning visuals. It’s a sharp contrast to the gloom of the deeper regions. Here, the environment feels alive, with vibrant greenery juxtaposed against the crumbling ruins. But don’t let the beauty fool you—it’s not as friendly as it looks. The creatures here may look cute, but they’re just as deadly as anywhere else in Hallownest.

3. The City of Tears: A Kingdom in Ruin

If Hallownest has a heart, it’s the City of Tears—a sprawling urban center perpetually drenched by rain. The sheer scale of this area is breathtaking. You can almost feel the weight of its history bearing down on you as you explore its rain-soaked streets. The city’s design is a masterpiece, combining gothic architecture with a sense of abandonment and loss.

4. Deepnest: The Nightmare Below

Ever wake up in a cold sweat because of a nightmare? That’s Deepnest in a nutshell. It’s dark, claustrophobic, and crawling with unsettling creatures. This place will keep you on edge the entire time, and honestly, it’s not for the faint of heart. Deepnest feels alive in the worst way—like it’s watching you, waiting for you to slip up.

The Silent Protagonist: Who Is the Knight?

Let’s take a moment to talk about the silent star of the show: the Knight. Who—or what—are they? The Knight is small, unassuming, and doesn’t exactly scream “hero.” But appearances can be deceiving, right? The Knight serves as a vessel (quite literally) for the player’s curiosity. They’re an enigma, much like the kingdom they’re exploring.

This lack of backstory or dialogue allows players to project themselves onto the Knight. It’s a storytelling masterpiece because it makes the journey feel personal. You’re not just playing as the Knight; you are the Knight, uncovering Hallownest’s secrets for yourself.

Themes of Decay and Rebirth: The Soul of Hallownest

One of the most striking things about Hallownest is its overarching theme of decay. Everything in this kingdom is either dying, has died, or is struggling to survive. The infection spreading through the land serves as both a literal and metaphorical representation of this decay. It’s like watching a once-great empire crumble under the weight of its own history.

Yet, despite the somber themes, there’s a glimmer of hope woven throughout Hallownest. The concept of rebirth is ever-present, whether through the Knight’s journey, the cyclical nature of the infection, or the small pockets of life that still cling on in the shadows. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there’s a chance for renewal.

The Role of Music in Hallownest’s Atmosphere

No discussion of Hollow Knight would be complete without mentioning its soundtrack. Christopher Larkin’s score is nothing short of a masterpiece. The music in Hollow Knight doesn’t just accompany the gameplay—it elevates it. Each track feels perfectly crafted to match the mood of its respective area. From the haunting melodies of Deepnest to the melancholic piano of the City of Tears, the music pulls you deeper into the world of Hallownest.

It’s like the soundtrack is its own character, whispering the kingdom’s secrets to you as you explore. Honestly, it’s the kind of music that sticks with you long after you’ve turned off the game.

Why Hallownest Stands Out Among Game Worlds

Let’s be real—there are a lot of video games out there with expansive worlds. But what makes Hallownest stand out? It’s the attention to detail. This isn’t just a game world; it’s a living, breathing entity. Every nook and cranny feels purposeful, every enemy has a story, and every area connects in a way that feels organic.

Playing through Hallownest feels less like playing a game and more like stepping into a piece of art. The world-building is so immersive that it’s easy to lose track of time as you wander through its caverns and corridors.

Hallownest’s Legacy: Why We Keep Coming Back

Even years after its release, Hollow Knight remains a fan favorite. Why? Because Hallownest is timeless. It’s the kind of world that stays with you, lingering in the back of your mind like a favorite book or movie. Every time you revisit it, you notice something new. It’s a testament to how much love and care went into creating this masterpiece.

Whether it’s your first playthrough or your tenth, Hallownest always has something new to offer. And with the highly anticipated release of Hollow Knight: Silksong on the horizon, it’s clear that this beautifully haunting world still has more stories to tell.

Final Thoughts: Beneath the Surface Lies a Masterpiece

Hallownest isn’t just a setting—it’s an experience. It’s a place that pulls you in, wraps you in its atmosphere, and refuses to let go. Whether you’re a fan of Metroidvania games or just someone who appreciates great storytelling and world-building, Hollow Knight delivers in spades.

So, if you haven’t yet ventured into Hallownest, what are you waiting for? Grab your nail, put on your best adventurer’s hat (or mask), and dive into the forgotten kingdom. Just remember—beneath the surface lies beauty, danger, and a story waiting to be uncovered.