Hollow Knight Silksong Swift Step Dash Guide
The Swift Step ability in Hollow Knight Silksong unlocks both dash and sprint, making it one of the most important upgrades early in the game. Without it, exploring Pharloom and surviving tough enemies becomes far more difficult. This guide explains exactly how to unlock Swift Step, where to find it in the Deep Docks, and how to use it effectively in both exploration and combat.
How to Unlock Dash in Hollow Knight Silksong
You unlock dash by obtaining the Swift Step ability in the Deep Docks. Look for the shrine in the upper section of this region.
Reaching it requires looping east from the center of the Deep Docks, climbing upward, then circling back west toward a bench. Once you locate the shrine, interact with it to receive Swift Step. From that moment, Hornet can dash and sprint freely.
How Swift Step Works
Swift Step combines two essential mobility tools into one. By pressing R2 or RT, Hornet will perform a dash forward. This can also be done midair, letting you cross gaps or evade attacks. Keyboard users can use the C key by default.
If you hold down the dash button, Hornet transitions into a sprint. Sprinting increases ground speed with no stamina cost, letting you run indefinitely. Attacks while sprinting also have unique animations, making movement aggressive as well as fast.
Using Dash for Exploration and Combat
Dash helps you:
Cross wider pits and reach platforms you could not access before
Evade boss attacks or reposition quickly in combat
Chain with wall grabs and jumps to cover large distances
Sprint across long hallways for efficient travel
Because sprinting is unlimited, Swift Step becomes one of the most valuable early abilities in the game. It also helps unlock shortcuts, speeding up exploration.
Final Blurb
Swift Step is the key to unlocking Hollow Knight Silksong’s fast-paced exploration. Found in the Deep Docks, it grants Hornet both dash and sprint with no energy cost. Once unlocked, it becomes a constant part of your movement and survival toolkit across Pharloom.
FAQ
Where do you get Swift Step?
Swift Step is found at a shrine in the upper Deep Docks.
Can you dash in midair?
Yes, dash works both on the ground and while airborne.
How do you sprint?
Hold down the dash button to enter a sprint.
Does sprinting use stamina?
No, sprinting is unlimited and free to use.
What changes in combat with Swift Step?
Attacks during sprinting have slightly different animations, giving Hornet new ways to pressure enemies.
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