5 Best Video Games Like Hollow Knight

August 9, 2026 - 05:18

"Hollow Knight" is a fantastic example of the depth a Metroidvania-style game can offer players. These five games have similar charms, if fewer cool bugs. Each one brings its own twist to the formula, but they all share that same sense of discovery, tough-but-fair combat, and a world that feels both beautiful and dangerous.

First up is "Ori and the Will of the Wisps." It trades the dark, ruined kingdom of Hallownest for a lush, vibrant forest. The movement is faster and more fluid, almost like a dance, and the platforming sections are some of the best in the genre. The story is more direct and emotional, but the exploration and boss fights are just as demanding.

If you want a heavier, more methodical feel, "Blasphemous" is a strong pick. It is a grim, pixel-art game soaked in religious imagery and Spanish folklore. The combat is slower and more punishing, focusing on precise timing and parries rather than quick dodges. The world is a twisted, beautiful nightmare, and the lore is just as cryptic as anything in "Hollow Knight."

For something with a bit more structure, "Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night" is a love letter to the classic "Castlevania" games. It gives you a huge castle to explore, and you gain new abilities that open up previously unreachable areas. The combat is more about customizing your weapon and magic loadout, offering a different kind of depth. It is a bit more straightforward than "Hollow Knight," but it is incredibly satisfying to master.

Then there is "Axiom Verge," which is a more sci-fi take on the genre. It is a solo project that feels like a strange, alien dream. Instead of a nail, you get a variety of weird guns and gadgets. The world is a glitchy, otherworldly place, and the sense of isolation is just as strong. It is less about graceful swordplay and more about figuring out how your strange new tools work together.

Finally, "Dead Cells" is a bit different because it is a roguelike. You die a lot, and each run is a fresh start. But the core loop of exploring, fighting, and finding new gear is incredibly addictive. The combat is fast, punchy, and always keeps you on your toes. It might not have the same hand-crafted, interconnected map, but it nails the feeling of constant progress and satisfying combat that makes "Hollow Knight" so good. If you are looking for a new challenge after finishing "Hollow Knight," any of these will scratch that itch.