Team Cherry found themselves operating under pressure as they neared completion of Hollow Knight: Silksong, leading to an unexpected and rushed release date. Co-founder Ari Gibson shared insights on how the game’s launch window caught the team off guard, noting, “To some extent, that probably is unfortunate,” especially as numerous titles adjusted their schedules to avoid clashing with Silksong’s debut.

As the game launched, platforms like Steam faced significant disruptions, further complicating the reception of competing games that had to navigate around Silksong’s hype.

Despite the chaotic build-up, Gibson suggests that some postponements may have allowed developers to refine their titles, albeit they had little say over the timing in the first place. The team’s philosophy typically involves an organic development process, causing the final launch window to be nailed down only shortly prior to the reveal trailer.

In the wake of Silksong’s release, it’s anticipated that similar reactions might occur as upcoming game releases adjust, especially with major titles like GTA 6 also vying for attention.