In Hollow Knight Silksong, Hornet’s primary weapon, the needle, evolves through upgrades rather than the nail system from the first game. Similar to the original, these enhancements require locating a blacksmith NPC who reforges the weapon using currency and rare materials. Here’s a breakdown of how upgrades work:
Needle Upgrade Mechanics
- Four-tier progression: Upgrades significantly boost Hornet’s damage output.
- Resource requirements: Each tier demands Rosaries (the game’s currency) and rare crafting items.
- Exploration-dependent: The blacksmith’s location evolves alongside your progress in Pharloom.
Blacksmith and Upgrade Process
The blacksmith NPC is hidden in Pharloom, requiring players to uncover them through exploration. Expect to revisit this character multiple times to unlock higher-tier upgrades. Preparation is key: collect enough Rosaries and rare materials (found via bosses, hidden paths, or high-risk zones) before each reforging.
Essential Strategies
- Invest in tools first: Prioritize buying the Crafting Kit early to enhance resource gathering.
- Rosary management: Save currency for upgrades instead of overspending on temporary items.
- Balance progression: Upgrade health and silk abilities alongside your needle to handle tougher challenges.
FAQ
What item should I buy early to help with upgrades?
The Crafting Kit from traders should be a priority, as it boosts tool effectiveness throughout your playthrough.
Is the blacksmith required for progression?
Yes, needle upgrades greatly improve damage output and are essential for surviving later bosses.
What currency is needed for upgrades?
Upgrades require Rosaries along with rare crafting materials.
How many needle upgrades are there in Silksong?
There are four upgrade tiers available through the blacksmith.