Navigating the sprawling underground kingdom of Hallownest can feel overwhelming for new and returning players alike. With its interconnected corridors, hidden paths, and non-linear design, knowing where to direct your steps is key to making steady progress. This guide outlines the optimal route to help you explore efficiently without losing the joy of discovery.
Starting Out in Forgotten Crossroads and Greenpath
Your journey begins in Dirtmouth, leading straight down into the Forgotten Crossroads. Here, your primary objective is to defeat the False Knight and secure the Vengeful Spirit spell. Acquiring this ranged ability grants access to the verdant region of Greenpath on the western side of the map.
Once in Greenpath, follow the main paths to encounter Hornet for the first time. Defeating her rewards you with the Mothwing Cloak, enabling a horizontal dash that opens up previously unreachable areas across Hallownest.
Descending to Fungal Wastes and City of Tears
With the dash unlocked, head south from the Crossroads into the Fungal Wastes. Navigate through the bouncing mushrooms to reach the Mantis Village, where you can claim the Mantis Claw for wall-jumping abilities. This essential movement upgrade allows you to climb vertical shafts and access new zones.
Use your new wall-jump to reach the entrance of the City of Tears, the monumental heart of the kingdom. Inserting the City Crest unlocks the gates, revealing a vast urban expanse filled with upgrades, vendors, and crucial story milestones.
Unlocking Advanced Movement in Crystal Peak and Ancient Basin
After acquiring the Desolate Dive spell from the Soul Master in the City of Tears, travel northeast to Crystal Peak. Deep within this dangerous mine lies the Crystal Heart, granting a super-dash ability that spans long horizontal chasms. You can also pick up the Monarch Wings in the Ancient Basin to gain a double jump.
These late-game traversal tools are vital for navigating the remaining corners of the map. Combining the double jump and super-dash allows you to overcome the most challenging environmental obstacles in Hallownest.
Tracking Down the Three Dreamers
To reach the game's climax, you must locate and break the seals maintained by the three Dreamers: Lurien the Watcher, Monomon the Teacher, and Herrah the Beast. They are hidden within the City of Tears, Fog Canyon, and Deepnest, respectively. Using the Dream Nail, you can enter their minds and release the barriers sealing the final boss.
Confronting these figures requires thorough preparation and mastery over your combat abilities. Once all three seals are broken, return to the Temple of the Black Egg in the Forgotten Crossroads to fulfill your destiny.