Hollow Knight: Silksong's map made me rethink my relationship to maps in games

The article discusses the map feature in the upcoming game Hollow Knight: Silksong. The author notes that the map in Silksong is unlocked gradually, with each new section and detail revealed by a vendor named Shakra. This approach, compared to the more traditional map unlocking mechanics in games, has led the author to rethink their relationship with maps in games. The article suggests that the gradual unveiling of the map in Silksong creates a sense of mystery and exploration, as players must actively engage with the game world to uncover its secrets. This contrasts with the more common practice of providing players with a complete map from the outset, which can sometimes diminish the sense of discovery and immersion. The author concludes that the map design in Silksong has the potential to enhance the overall gameplay experience by encouraging players to pay closer attention to their surroundings and actively explore the game world, rather than relying solely on a comprehensive map.