Hollow Knight: Silksong Cheat Code Unlocks Steel Soul Mode Early

Hardcore fans of Hollow Knight: Silksong just got a thrilling discovery: a hidden cheat code now lets players unlock the infamous Steel Soul Mode right from the very beginning. Normally reserved for those who finish the main story first, this ultimate challenge mode introduces permadeath—once you die, your save is permanently erased. It’s the toughest test for players who want to push their skills to the absolute limit.
The secret was uncovered by players on Reddit, who compared it to the classic Konami Code. To activate it, head into the Extras menu and input the following sequence:
Up, Down, Up, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right
Once entered, starting a new save will give the option to choose between Normal Mode and Steel Soul Mode right away.
While exciting, this mode is not for the faint of heart. Enemies in Silksong hit much harder than in the original game, bosses move faster and strike more aggressively, and even the smallest mistake can spell the end of your run. Beginners may want to steer clear until they’re more familiar with the game’s mechanics.
Hollow Knight: Silksong is the long-awaited sequel to the indie hit Hollow Knight. Originally conceived as a DLC expansion, it evolved into a full standalone adventure starring Hornet, who finds herself trapped in a mysterious kingdom woven from silk and song. Players must fight relentless enemies, unravel ancient mysteries, and survive the dangerous climb through an expansive Metroidvania-style world filled with secrets, challenges, and breathtaking encounters.
This hidden Steel Soul unlock is a brilliant addition that raises the stakes for dedicated fans and adds a fresh layer of excitement for those daring enough to attempt it from the start. It proves once again why Silksong remains one of the most anticipated titles in modern gaming.
origin: gamingbolt