In Hollow Knight: Silksong, one of your first priorities should be to buy maps and orient yourself in the game world. I encountered Shakra, the NPC who sells maps and accessories like the Quill and Compass, within the first hour of gameplay. Knowing how to locate Shakra early on sets you up for success in exploring the game’s rich landscapes.
To purchase maps in Silksong, you’ll need to collect Rosaries and visit Shakra, located in the upper left of The Marrow. Once you’re in The Marrow, head all the way right until you find a lava-filled area just past the bench where you can insert Rosaries. Climb up and veer left to discover Shakra’s room, and keep an ear out for the lovely singing that indicates you’re getting close.
Shakra offers these items at the following Rosary costs:
| Item | Rosaries cost | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Mosslands map | 40 | Outline of the Mosslands area |
| The Marrow map | 50 | Outline of The Marrow area |
| Quill | 50 | Add new areas to existing maps |
| Compass | 70 | Reveals your location on the map |
| Bench Pins | 60 | Marks benches and resting spots |
| Shell Marker | 40 | Allows marking important areas on maps |
If you’re low on Rosaries, navigate to the bottom left room of Shakra’s area. Defeating monsters there can yield additional Rosaries, along with items you can break for more Rosaries. You can find up to 40 Rosaries in that room, which is enough to purchase the Mosslands map.
If you’ve been diligent in your exploration, you may uncover a secret room in the Mosslands containing about 55 Rosaries. This can significantly boost your Rosary collection, allowing you to purchase the Compass, along with maps for The Marrow and Mosslands, helping you navigate these early-game areas more effectively. Don’t forget to break any Frayed Rosary Strings in your inventory to gain extra Rosaries.
Equip the Compass
While maps activate automatically once purchased, the Compass requires manual equipping at a bench. Simply find a bench, open your equipment menu, and select the Compass from your inventory. If you already have another charm equipped, you’ll need to unequip it to use the Compass.
With the Compass equipped, pressing LB on your controller opens the map to display Hornet’s icon, helping you navigate the area. You can also see a silk cocoon marking your last death location, so you can easily recover lost Rosaries.
Avoid Early Accessory Purchases
While the Quill, Bench Pins, and Markers are nifty utility upgrades, it’s best to hold off on buying them until you secure the Compass and the maps first. These items help mark important spots on your map and provide useful navigation features. However, mastering basic navigation is crucial before focusing on helpful markers.
What should I buy first in Hollow Knight: Silksong? Start with the maps and the Compass to ensure you can navigate effectively as you explore the game world.
Where can I find Shakra in the game? Shakra is located in The Marrow, specifically in the upper left area beyond the lava-filled section just past the bench.
How do I equip the Compass in Silksong? You need to find a bench, open your inventory, and select the Compass to equip it. Make sure to unequip any other charm if necessary.
Can you collect Rosaries in hidden areas? Yes, you can discover secret rooms that contain Rosaries, helping you gather the currency you need to purchase essential maps and items.
As you continue your journey in Hollow Knight: Silksong, remember to explore thoroughly and engage with the game’s mechanics to maximize your Rosary collection and map utility. For more tips and guides, keep exploring content from Moyens I/O.