Unless you have PlayStation Dual Sense controller, you have to learn the Hollow Knight Silksong keyboard controls if you just bought the game on Steam. Developers Team Cherry has finally released it’s much anticipated sequel to the popular 2D side-scrolling Metroidvania-platformer and everyone can’t wait to dive into Hornet’s latest adventure, it’s worth learning the controls. Whether you’re new to the series or already a Hollow Knight veteran, knowing the right buttons will make your journey much smoother.
Silksong doesn’t overload you with inputs, but it does have some unique actions like Needolin, along with shortcuts for Journal, Crest, and Tasks on PC. If you’re using a keyboard, you can rebind all keys to suit your playstyle. For controller users, Xbox and PS5 layouts work very naturally. Here are the best Hollow Knight Silksong keyboard controls.
Hollow Knight Silksong Keyboard Controls

Action | PC (Default) | Xbox | PS5 |
---|---|---|---|
Up | Up Arrow | Left Stick | Left Stick |
Down | Down Arrow | Left Stick | Left Stick |
Left | Left Arrow | Left Stick | Left Stick |
Right | Right Arrow | Left Stick | Left Stick |
Jump | Z | A | Cross (X) |
Quick Map | Tab | LB | L1 |
Attack | X | X | Square |
Harpoon | S | LT | L2 |
Sprint | C | RT | R2 |
Needolin | Down Arrow | Y | Triangle |
Bind | A | B | Circle |
Skill / Tool | F | RB | R1 |
Inventory | I | View | Touchpad |
Challenge | V | – | – |
Map | M | Double Tap RB | Double Tap R1 |
Journal | J | – | – |
Crest | Q | – | – |
Tasks | T | – | – |
Hollow Knight Best Keyboard Controls
While the default Hollow Knight Silksong keyboard controls are good, many players prefer customizing them for comfort. For example, binding Jump to Spacebar and Attack to Left Click can make combat feel smoother. Since Silksong lets you rebind everything, try experimenting until you find what feels most natural.
That covers every button you need to master Hornet’s movements. If you want more tips beyond the Hollow Knight best keyboard controls, check out our other Silksong guides on RetroNoob to help you survive this dark, dangerous kingdom.