How to get and use Swift Step in Hollow Knight Silksong

In any platformer game, Dash and sprint are always two 'must-have' skills to both dodge attacks and overcome difficult obstacles. If you play League of Legends , you are certainly no stranger to this concept.

 

With Hollow Knight Silksong , Hornet is no exception, however, instead of being unlocked like many other games, you need to find a special skill called Swift Step to own Dash and Sprint. This is one of the most important upgrades early in the game, helping you move smoothly, avoid damage easier and open up many new areas.

This article will detail how to find Swift Step in Deep Docks, how to overcome the challenge to unlock it, and how to use Dash and Sprint once you get it.

 

Swift Step's location in Silksong

The Swift Step Idol is located in Deep Docks, the main area right after you clear The Marrow.
This Idol is hidden on the upper level of Deep Docks, behind some obstacles and an ant sub-boss fight.

To unlock Swift Step, you need to:

1. Enter the Deep Docks area.
2. Cross the lava.
3. Destroy the orange node to open the way.
4. Defeat the ant sub-boss.
5. Tap on Idol to get skill.

Detailed instructions on how to unlock Swift Step

Go to Deep Docks

 

Upon entering the Deep Docks, you will see an elevator leading to a shrine. This shrine can be turned into a Rest Bench to save. Activate the bench to safety, then take the elevator back down and turn right.

Here, you will hear the familiar voice of Shakra – the map merchant. He stands near the fast travel area. You can buy a map for 50 Rosaries to make it easier to find your way. Then, start climbing the platforms above.

Penetrate Lava

Continue moving to the right, you will come to a single platform surrounded by lava. It looks scary but Hornet can actually walk across this lava without getting burned. However, be careful because rocks will fall from above continuously. Focus on moving, do not stop here to fight monsters.

 

Break Orange Node

Once you've cleared the lava, continue climbing up. You'll see an orange node clinging to the ceiling. Smash it to destroy it, then quickly back away to avoid the explosion. This node will open a secret passage that will lead you to the next area.

Defeat the ant sub-boss

Through the newly opened door, you will have to face a mandatory battle: the ant sub-boss. This enemy is not too difficult, but requires you to observe and dodge continuously. Take advantage of your existing skills, keep calm to defeat him. After winning, the path to Swift Step Idol will be wide open.

Tap on Swift Step Idol

 

Continue left and you will eventually encounter the Swift Step Idol. Stand in front of the Idol and press the D-Pad up or down to interact. Hornet will immediately learn Swift Step, unlocking Dash and Sprint.

How to Use Dash and Sprint in Silksong

1. Dash: Hold the direction button and press the Sprint button. (Default: R2 on PS5, RT on Xbox, C key on PC). Hornet will dash in the specified direction.
2. Sprint: Hold the Sprint button longer to sprint continuously. This is a great way to move extremely fast across the map, or dodge boss AoE attacks.

Swift Step lets you dodge dangerous attacks, cross wide holes, and feel Hornet's combat tempo take a whole new level. This is the foundational skill for Silksong's 50+ hour journey.

Swift Step is one of the most important skills you should unlock as soon as possible in Hollow Knight: Silksong. Not only does it give Hornet more mobility, it also makes intense battles a lot easier. With Dash and Sprint in hand, you'll feel the difference: faster pace, smoother movement, and ready to face any challenge that lies ahead.

Have you opened Swift Step yet? If so, please share your experience with the community!