Hollow Knight: Silksong doesn’t directly hand you a map, just like its predecessor and unlike most Metroidvanias. It’s easy to get lost in the kingdom of Pharloom, so players will need to find a cartographer NPC and purchase maps for each area they encounter during their journey. Silksong‘s cartographer is Shakra, replacing Cornifer. She is a proud warrior who, similar to Cornifer, can be found singing as she roams the regions of Pharloom. She offers to sell you maps and other essential mapping tools. In this guide, we’ll explain where to find Shakra and how to chart your adventure through Pharloom efficiently.
The Mapping System in Silksong compared to Hollow Knight
©Image: Team Cherry via CheatCC
One of the many improvements in Hollow Knight: Silksong compared to Hollow Knight is that you can access mapping tools much earlier in the game. Hollow Knight requires you not only to find the cartographer, but also to backtrack to Dirtmouth to buy the compass and quill, which will help keep track of your navigation. In Silksong, you’re able to purchase the maps, compass, and quill all from Shakra, reducing backtracking.
Where to find Shakra in Hollow Knight: Silksong
Shakra is the primary NPC who sells maps and mapping upgrades. While she is the one dedicated map vendor, you can also find maps to other areas as pick-ups in the overworld. Similar to Cornifer, Shakra moves from region to region as you progress, and you can even find her in the first village, Bone Bottom. As you continue through your journey, it’s best to be on the lookout for her iconic rings or listen out for her distinct singing. If you happen to miss her in a certain region, you can always buy the map of the previous region the next time you encounter her.
You’ll have to navigate through the introductory area of Silksong before you find Shakra for the first time. Once you reach The Marrow, the second major area, you’ll discover Shakra in your path as you continue forward. You may not see her initially, but you’ll definitely hear her as her singing cuts through the ambiance of the game. You’ll access the Marrow after the first major boss in Silksong, the Bell Beast in Moss Grotto.
Once you find her, be sure to exhaust her dialogue to see her wares. Be sure to purchase the maps for any areas you’ve explored thus far. Be sure to save your Rosaries to purchase the Compass and Quill tool (120 Rosaries). The Compass indicates your precise location when viewing the map. The Quill allows you to update the map with newly explored rooms every time you rest at a bench.
While they aren’t as vital as the other map supplies, it is worth investing in Map Pins. They help you mark essential locations on the map, such as Benches and Fast Travel spots. You’ll definitely want to pick them up at some point, but they aren’t as important.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Image: Team Cherry via CheatCC