Team Cherry has released a free native‑code upgrade for Hollow Knight that runs on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and the upcoming Switch 2. The patch replaces the old port with a version built from the ground up, delivering higher frame rates, faster load times and sharper textures at no extra cost for anyone who already owns the game.
Why the Upgrade Matters
The original 2017 release was praised for its tight controls and atmospheric world‑building, but its engine was tuned for previous‑gen hardware. On newer consoles, the native build unlocks performance that can double the frame rate, turning a choppy 30 fps experience into a buttery‑smooth 60 fps run. That extra responsiveness isn’t just a nicety—it fundamentally improves platforming precision.
Performance Gains on Each Console
- PlayStation 5: Leverages the custom RDNA 2 GPU and ultra‑fast SSD, shaving seconds off level transitions and delivering consistent 60 fps.
- Xbox Series X|S: Takes advantage of the Zen 2 architecture, offering similar frame‑rate boosts and reduced input lag.
- Switch 2: Runs at the intended resolution without the memory constraints that forced compromises on the original Switch.
How to Get the Free Upgrade
If you already own Hollow Knight on PS4, Xbox One or the original Switch, simply open the respective store, locate the title and select “download.” No extra keys, no hidden fees—just a straightforward swap. New players purchasing the game now receive the next‑gen version automatically.
Developer Insight
From a development standpoint, moving to a native build required careful profiling of the original codebase. By refactoring core systems instead of applying a compatibility layer, Team Cherry eliminated bottlenecks, reduced input latency and ensured texture streaming works flawlessly on SSDs. This approach shows that investing in a next‑gen port can pay off quickly when a title still enjoys strong community support.
Future Outlook
As console makers push for a unified ecosystem, more indie gems are likely to receive similar treatment. For you, that means a growing library of classic games that run at modern performance standards without paying extra. Fans of Hollow Knight can now explore Hallownest with the speed and visual fidelity it deserves—no hat required.
