Learn how to unlock the Wanderer Crest in Hollow Knight: Silksong for classic downward pogo attacks. Complete guide with locations, keys, and combat tips.
If you’re a veteran of the original Hollow Knight, you’ve probably noticed something feels… off about Hornet’s downward attack. Instead of the satisfying straight-down pogo that let you bounce on enemies’ heads like a deadly pogo stick, Hornet swings at a frustrating 45-degree angle that makes precise platforming a nightmare.
Don’t worry – Team Cherry heard your pain. Hidden deep within Silksong’s world is a solution that brings back the classic downward slash mechanics you remember and love.
Why Hornet’s Default Downward Attack Feels Wrong
The angled downward slash isn’t necessarily bad design, but it’s definitely different. Where the Knight’s straight-down attack was perfect for pogo-jumping across spike pits and enemy heads, Hornet’s diagonal swing requires completely relearning your muscle memory.
This change was likely intentional – Team Cherry wanted to give Hornet her own distinct fighting style. But for players who’ve spent hundreds of hours mastering the original’s mechanics, this adjustment can feel like learning to write with your non-dominant hand.
Enter the Wanderer Crest: Your Salvation
Silksong introduces Crests – essentially different weapon styles that completely change how Hornet attacks. Think of them as fighting stance modifications rather than simple weapon swaps. The Wanderer Crest is specifically designed to replicate the original Hollow Knight’s combat feel.
What makes the Wanderer Crest special:
- Straight downward slash – just like the original Knight
- Faster attack animations – more responsive combat
- Familiar pogo mechanics – perfect for bouncing on enemies and spikes
- Classic timing – no need to relearn your platforming muscle memory
It’s basically Team Cherry’s love letter to players who missed the original combat system.
Before You Begin: Essential Preparation
While you can technically grab the Wanderer Crest without it, I strongly recommend unlocking Hornet’s Swift Step (Dash) ability first. The platforming section leading to the crest is much easier with improved mobility, and you’ll avoid a lot of unnecessary deaths.
You’ll also need 500 Rosaries to purchase a Simple Key. If you’re short on currency, Bone Bottom and Mosshome offer some excellent farming opportunities.
Step-by-Step: Journey to the Chapel of the Wanderer
Getting Your Simple Key
Your first stop is Pebb’s shop in Bone Bottom. This merchant sells Simple Keys for 500 Rosaries – a hefty price early in the game, but essential for accessing locked areas. Make sure you’ve got enough currency before making the trip.
Pro Tip: Check out our merchant buying priority guide to make sure you’re spending your Rosaries wisely.
Navigating to Mosshome (If You Haven’t Already)
If you haven’t unlocked the Mosshome elevator yet, here’s the quickest route:
- Climb through The Marrow from Bone Bottom, heading toward Mosshome
- Head left and continue straight until you spot a platform with a lever
- Activate the lever to open a trapdoor beneath you
- Drop through and move left to find a locked elevator
- Pull the nearby lever to connect this elevator to Bone Bottom
- Ride down and rest at the bench – this updates your respawn point and saves time later
The Real Journey Begins
From the Mosshome elevator area:
- Return to the upper platforms using the elevator
- Cross the chasm using the two suspended cages – this is where Swift Step really helps, though you can also pogo off flying enemies if you’re skilled enough
- Navigate the acid chamber by staying behind stone platforms for cover
- Use your Simple Key on the western door to reveal the path to Wormways
Through the Wormways
The Wormways section requires careful timing:
- Dodge the two sandworms that drop from the ceiling – they’re more bark than bite, but can still catch you off guard
- Find the ground hole and drop into the tunnel system
- Follow the tunnels downward until you emerge on a ledge in a mossy green area
- Drop all the way to the bottom – don’t worry about fall damage here
The Chapel of the Wanderer
At the bottom, you’ll see two paths:
- Right: A shortcut back to main Bone Bottom (useful for later)
- Left: The dilapidated Chapel of the Wanderer (your destination)
The Chapel houses your prize, but it’s not unguarded.
The Gauntlet Challenge: Earning Your Crest
The Chapel of the Wanderer isn’t just a treasure room – it’s a combat trial. You’ll face waves of enemies that test your current fighting skills before granting access to the improved combat system.
Combat Tips:
- Take your time – rushing leads to unnecessary damage
- Use the environment to your advantage – corners and platforms provide strategic positioning
- Remember that this fight is designed for your current abilities, so don’t feel overwhelmed
Once you clear the enemies, “Bind” the Wanderer Crest from the final chamber. Hornet automatically equips it, and you’ll immediately feel the difference in her attack patterns.
Making the Switch: Crest Management
After binding the Wanderer Crest, you’ll need to rest at a bench to access customization options. From any bench, you can:
- Switch between crests you’ve collected
- Upgrade crest abilities (as you progress)
- Customize your fighting style based on the situation
Don’t feel locked into the Wanderer Crest permanently – different areas and boss fights might benefit from different approaches.
Why This Detour is Worth It
The journey to the Wanderer Crest might seem like a lot of work for what appears to be a minor combat adjustment, but the impact on gameplay is substantial. Players who struggled with Hornet’s default diagonal attacks often find their enjoyment of the game dramatically improves once they have access to familiar mechanics.
Plus, the route to the Chapel introduces you to several important areas and mechanics you’ll need later, including the Simple Key system and advanced platforming challenges.
Advanced Tips for Wanderer Crest Users
Once you’ve got the Wanderer Crest equipped:
- Practice the timing – even though it’s familiar, Hornet’s animation speed differs slightly from the Knight’s
- Experiment with combinations – the faster attack speed opens up new combat possibilities
- Revisit difficult areas – sections that felt frustrating with the default crest might be much more manageable now
The Wanderer Crest pairs particularly well with other mobility upgrades you’ll unlock throughout your journey, creating a movement system that feels both familiar and uniquely Silksong.
Looking Ahead
The Wanderer Crest is just one of several weapon styles available in Silksong. As you progress, you’ll discover other crests that offer completely different approaches to combat. But for players missing the precision and familiarity of the original Hollow Knight’s downward attack, the Wanderer Crest provides the perfect bridge between old and new.
Master this classic combat style, and you’ll be ready to tackle everything Pharloom throws at you – from challenging platforming sections to epic boss battles that demand pixel-perfect timing.
Ready to experience Hollow Knight: Silksong? Get the game on Steam, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation, Xbox, or check out the official website for the latest updates.
