Complete Codes Demonstration
Watch this demonstration of the Konami Code and Steel Soul mode in action:
Overview
Hollow Knight: Silksong includes a hidden tribute to one of gaming's most famous cheat codes - the Konami Code. However, this isn't your typical power-up code. According to CNET's investigation, Team Cherry has implemented this legendary code sequence to unlock the game's most challenging mode: Steel Soul.
The Konami Code in Silksong
What Makes This Special:
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Inverted Purpose: Unlike the original Konami Code, this doesn't make the game easier - it makes it significantly harder
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Permadeath Mode: Unlocks Steel Soul mode where death is permanent and your save file is wiped
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Modified Sequence: Uses a shortened version of the classic code sequence
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Immediate Access: Available from the start - no need to beat the game first
How to Enter the Konami Code
Step-by-Step Instructions
The Code Sequence:
Up, Down, Up, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right
- Navigate to Extras: From the main menu, go to the Extras section
- Input the Code: Enter the sequence: Up, Down, Up, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right
- Watch for Confirmation: The screen will flash when the code is entered correctly
- Back Out: Exit the Extras screen and return to the main menu
- Start New Game: Select Start Game, then New Game
- Choose Steel Soul: The Mode Select screen will now show the Steel Soul option
Platform-Specific Controls:
- Console Players: Use the D-pad on your controller
- PC Players: Use either controller D-pad or keyboard arrow keys
- No Additional Buttons: Unlike the full Konami Code, no A, B, or Start buttons are needed
Steel Soul Mode: The Ultimate Challenge
Steel Soul mode transforms Hollow Knight: Silksong into the ultimate test of skill and perseverance. This permadeath mode is not for the faint of heart and represents the highest difficulty challenge in the game.
Steel Soul Mode Features
Core Mechanics:
- No Reviving: Death is truly permanent
- Save Deletion: Your save file is completely wiped upon death
- Complete Restart: Must start over from the very beginning
- Ultimate Bragging Rights: For the most skilled players only
What This Means:
- Every encounter becomes life-or-death
- Perfect strategy and execution required
- No room for careless mistakes
- Reserved for Silksong veterans
Steel Soul: Silksong vs. Original Hollow Knight
Original Hollow Knight:
- Unlocked after completing the game once
- Post-game challenge mode
- For experienced players
- Veteran achievement
Silksong Steel Soul:
- Available immediately via Konami Code
- Launch-day extreme challenge
- For the truly fearless
- Master-level achievement
Pro Tip: Even veterans of the original Hollow Knight should practice extensively in normal mode before attempting Steel Soul in Silksong.
The History of the Konami Code
Understanding the legacy behind this famous code sequence adds depth to Team Cherry's clever implementation in Silksong.
Origins and Evolution
1986 - Gradius (Original Implementation)
- • First appearance of the code in Konami's shoot 'em up game
- • Created by developer Kazuhisa Hashimoto as a testing tool
- • Granted all power-ups to make testing easier
- • Accidentally left in the final NES release
1987 - Contra (Fame and Recognition)
- • The code gained massive popularity through Contra
- • Granted 30 lives instead of the standard 3
- • Made the notoriously difficult game accessible
- • Became synonymous with "cheat codes" in gaming culture
Modern Era - Cultural Phenomenon
- • Used as easter eggs by companies like Google and Facebook
- • Appears in countless games as tribute or parody
- • Recognized as one of gaming's most famous secrets
- • Full sequence: ↑↑↓↓←→←→BA(Start)
Team Cherry's Brilliant Twist
Why This Implementation Works
Team Cherry's use of the Konami Code in Silksong is a masterclass in subverting expectations while honoring gaming history:
Clever Subversion:
- • Inverts the traditional "make it easier" expectation
- • Challenges players who think they know what to expect
- • Creates a memorable "gotcha" moment
- • Fits perfectly with Hollow Knight's challenging nature
Perfect Integration:
- • Provides immediate access to ultimate challenge
- • Rewards the most dedicated players
- • Creates additional replay value
- • Honors both gaming history and Team Cherry's vision
Steel Soul Survival Tips
If you're brave enough to attempt Steel Soul mode, these strategies can help maximize your chances of survival:
Preparation Strategies
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Master Normal Mode:
Complete the game multiple times before attempting Steel Soul
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Know Every Area:
Memorize enemy patterns, hazard locations, and safe paths
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Boss Mastery:
Practice every boss fight until you can win consistently
Survival Mindset
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Play Conservatively:
Prioritize survival over speed or style
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Health Management:
Never engage enemies at low health unless absolutely necessary
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Plan Your Route:
Take the safest paths, even if they're longer
Other Hidden Features
Additional Secrets to Discover
While the Konami Code is the most famous secret in Silksong, Team Cherry has included other hidden features:
Secret areas contain unique musical compositions not heard elsewhere
Certain button combinations unlock different visual themes
Hidden messages from Team Cherry scattered throughout the game world
Conclusion
The Konami Code in Hollow Knight: Silksong represents everything that makes Team Cherry special as developers. They've taken one of gaming's most recognizable cheat codes and turned it into the ultimate challenge, creating a perfect marriage between gaming history and their uncompromising vision of difficulty.
Whether you're brave enough to attempt Steel Soul mode or simply appreciate the clever homage to gaming culture, this easter egg showcases the thoughtfulness and creativity that makes Silksong a worthy successor to its predecessor. Remember: this code doesn't make the game easier - it makes it legendary.
↑↓↑↓←→←→ - The code that transforms legends into masters.
Guide accurate as of September 2025 based on CNET investigation and community discoveries