The Royal Waterways, a complex network of tunnels beneath Hallownest, is a crucial location for players seeking to advance in Hollow Knight. Accessing this area typically involves traversing Kingdom’s Edge, a windy, desolate region known for its challenging platforming and enemies. To fully open the Royal Waterways from Kingdom’s Edge, players need to locate a hidden entrance that is usually guarded by powerful creatures, and this access allows for further exploration and collection of key items essential for game progression.
Ah, the Royal Waterways! Just the name conjures images of murky depths, forgotten secrets, and maybe a little bit of that sweet, sweet Geo. This sprawling network of tunnels is more than just a damp detour; it’s a crucial location brimming with new baddies to bop, lore that’ll make your antennae twitch, and maybe even a boss or two waiting to test your mettle. Think of it as Hallownest’s underground plumbing system, but instead of, well, you know, it’s filled with adventure!
So, why are we diving in through Kingdom’s Edge, you ask? Well, consider it the VIP entrance. Kingdom’s Edge isn’t just a cool-looking zone; it’s strategically located. Popping down into the Royal Waterways from here can put you in a prime position to access other areas, snag some shiny upgrades, and generally get a leg up on your quest. It’s like finding a shortcut on your commute that shaves off 20 minutes and has a coffee shop right on the way!
But let’s be real, this journey isn’t all sunshine and fungal rainbows. The Royal Waterways can be a tough nut to crack. Think tricky jumps, sneaky enemies, and a general feeling of “Am I going the right way?!” That’s where this guide comes in, folks. We’re going to take you by the hand (or claw, or whatever appendage you’ve got), and lead you step-by-step from Kingdom’s Edge into the heart of the Waterways. Get ready to get wet!
Abilities First, Adventure Later: Gearing Up for the Waterways
Alright, so you’re itching to dive into the Royal Waterways from Kingdom’s Edge? Hold your horses (or should we say, your Vessels?)! Before you go cannonballing in, let’s make sure you’ve got all your ducks in a row. We’re talking about the essentials – the abilities that separate a triumphant trek from a watery grave.
First and foremost, you absolutely, positively need the Desolate Dive ability. Think of it as your wrecking ball for the floor. Without it, you’re just staring longingly at a cracked surface, wishing you had the power to bust through. Trust me; it’s non-negotiable. This ability allows you to break through the weak floors separating Kingdom’s Edge from the Royal Waterways.
Finding Kingdom’s Edge: Your First Hurdle
Now, let’s talk about getting to Kingdom’s Edge in the first place. This sprawling area is located to the far east of Hallownest. A good starting point is the City of Tears. Head east, navigating through the challenging areas, such as the King’s Station. You’ll likely need abilities like the Mantis Claw (for wall jumping) and the Monarch Wings (for double jumping) to traverse the terrain effectively. Keep an eye out for hostile bugs and treacherous platforms; Kingdom’s Edge isn’t exactly a walk in the park.
Benchmarking Your Progress: A Lifesaver in Disguise
And finally, a friendly reminder about our good old friend, the Bench. These glorious resting spots are your save points and respawn locations in case things go south (and in Hallownest, they often do). Before attempting the Royal Waterways entrance, make sure you’ve activated a bench relatively close by. There’s usually one near the eastern side of Kingdom’s Edge, closer to the entrance that will save you from losing hard-earned Geo and starting all the way back in Dirtmouth! Trust me, future-you will thank you for this.
Pinpointing the Entrance: A Kingdom’s Edge Treasure Hunt
Alright, Knight, ready for a little treasure hunt? Forget the map; we’re doing this old-school! Finding the entrance to the Royal Waterways from Kingdom’s Edge is like searching for a specific grain of sand on a beach, but fear not! We’ll guide you.
Follow the Wind (and Our Directions)
We’ll start our expedition from the eastern side of Kingdom’s Edge, specifically near the Colosseum of Fools. Head east, keeping an eye out for a large open area. You’ll likely encounter some pesky primal aspids along the way – dispatch them with extreme prejudice! Once you enter the area that is fairly empty of enemies save for hoppers, hug the eastern wall and make your way southward.
Keep going south, and drop down the ledges until you reach an opening on the left.
Now, brace yourself and head west. This area might have some spiky bits, so mind your step (or shell, or whatever you’re rocking). Keep going west until you reach an area with two tall platforms and one winged husk. The next area is where you can find the breakable floor!
X Marks the Spot (Almost)
Okay, time for some eagle-eyed observation. You’re looking for a section of floor that looks a little… worse for wear. Think cracked, crumbling, and generally uninviting. It’s usually situated near the edge of the platform. It’s not exactly screaming “Secret Passage,” but it’s definitely whispering it.
Keep a sharp lookout for any Crawlers or Squit lurking nearby. These little buggers have a nasty habit of getting in the way when you’re trying to smash through a floor. Take them out beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Descending into the Depths: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, you’ve found the breakable floor! Now comes the fun part: plummeting headfirst into the unknown! Don’t worry; with a little Desolate Dive finesse, you’ll be swimming (metaphorically, at least) in the Royal Waterways in no time.
Unleashing the Desolate Dive: Position is Key
Before you go all-in, slamming your Knight downwards like a desperate contestant on a game show, let’s talk positioning. You don’t want to miss that fragile floor and end up taking damage from enemies on the level below.
- Center Yourself: Make sure you’re standing smack-dab in the center of the breakable floor. A little wiggle room is fine, but you want to be mostly on top of it, rather than slightly off to one side.
- Double-Check Your Aim: There are no guarantees that you can Desolate Dive again anytime soon. Take your time to ensure that you are centered.
- Channel Your Inner Hero: Take a deep breath, steel your resolve, and remember why you need to take this path.
Hold On Tight: Potential Dangers During the Plunge
As you prepare to unleash the dive, keep in mind the path down may not be safe or completely free of enemies.
- Enemies: Keep an eye out for any enemies that might be patrolling nearby, and be prepared to react when you land on the level below.
- Sharp turns: While we hope your landing spot is a large open area, you may be landing on a very tight platform that you could easily fall off of. Keep an eye on all potential hazards.
From Kingdom’s Edge to the Royal Waterways: A New Beginning
Congratulations! You’ve made it! The transition from the dusty cliffs of Kingdom’s Edge to the dank depths of the Royal Waterways is complete. Take a moment to soak it all in (maybe not literally—it probably stinks down here).
- Immediate Surroundings: As you land, take a quick scan of your surroundings. What do you see? What do you hear? Identifying potential threats or pathways early can save you a lot of trouble later.
- A Change in Atmosphere: Be prepared for a shift in atmosphere. The Royal Waterways are a far cry from the relative openness of Kingdom’s Edge. Expect tighter corridors, more confined spaces, and a general sense of… dampness.
- Potential Platforms: When you first enter the room, there could be a potential of many paths. Be sure to find a bench before you take a leap of faith and lose your Geo!
Welcome to the Waterways: Gearing Up for the Grime!
Alright, Knight, you’ve braved the heights of Kingdom’s Edge and plunged through that suspiciously weak floor. Congrats, you’ve arrived at the Royal Waterways! Let’s quickly jog our memory, shall we? We scoured Kingdom’s Edge, found that breakable floor, and Desolate Dive-bombed our way down. Easy peasy, right?
Now, before you go splashing off into the unknown, let’s chat about what you can expect from this… charming locale. Hint: It’s not charming. Think less “royal spa day” and more “ancient, forgotten sewer filled with creepy crawlies.”
What Awaits You in the Murk: Why Bother With the Waterways?
So, why would you willingly jump into a glorified toilet? Well, adventurer, the Royal Waterways hold several key treasures, hidden beneath the grime. Prepare yourself for:
- Fresh Faces (and Fangs): A whole host of new enemies eager to test your mettle. Some are squishy, some are spiky, and some will make you question your life choices.
- Boss Battles Bonanza: Get ready to rumble with some memorable bosses! These encounters will challenge your skills and reward you handsomely (with Geo and bragging rights, mostly).
- Lore Galore: The Waterways are steeped in history, revealing more about the fall of Hallownest and the Waterways’ original purpose. If you’re a lore hound, prepare to dig deep!
- Shiny Baubles: Keep your eyes peeled for Geo caches, Charm notches, and maybe even a few cheeky upgrades to boost your Knight’s abilities.
Pro Tips for Plumbing the Depths (Without Drowning)
Okay, enough hype. Time for some practical advice to keep you alive (or at least, mostly alive) in the Royal Waterways:
- Which Way to Go First?: Consider heading left from the initial entry point. This path often leads to some easier encounters and provides a chance to get your bearings. Beware of the Oomas!
- Mind the Dung Defender: Seriously, watch out for this guy. While he might seem harmless, his dung balls pack a serious punch. Learn his attack patterns or bring a change of armor (just kidding, you can’t).
- Beware the Flukefey: These gross little guys can overwhelm you very quickly. Prioritize taking them down as soon as you see them.
So there you have it, Knight. A crash course in Royal Waterways survival. Now go forth, explore, and try not to get too… soiled. Good luck, you’ll need it!
How does the player unlock the gate leading to the Royal Waterways from Kingdom’s Edge in Hollow Knight?
The player acquires the Simple Key, an essential item, within the City of Tears. The player then locates the locked gate, a crucial passage, in Kingdom’s Edge. The player uses the Simple Key, a specific action, to unlock the gate. The gate opens to reveal, consequently, the entrance to the Royal Waterways.
What specific ability must the Knight possess to navigate the waterways after entering from Kingdom’s Edge?
The Knight needs the ability, a basic requirement, to swim in acid. The acid pools are present, an environmental hazard, throughout the Royal Waterways. Isma’s Tear provides, specifically, the necessary acid immunity. The Knight obtains Isma’s Tear, the item location, in the Royal Waterways.
What are the primary environmental challenges within the Royal Waterways that affect exploration from Kingdom’s Edge?
Sewage and waste define, notably, the Royal Waterways environment. Platforms are scarce, which limits traversal options. Enemies populate the area, posing combat challenges. Dark sections impair, as a result, visibility and navigation.
What key landmarks should players look for to confirm they are on the correct path to enter the Royal Waterways from Kingdom’s Edge?
The player seeks the broken tram station, a landmark to find, in Kingdom’s Edge. Spikes surround, often, the entrance to the correct passage. A large grub encased, visibly, in a jar marks a nearby location. Cornifer’s notes appear, helpfully, near the waterway entrance.
So, that’s pretty much it! Kingdom’s Edge and the Royal Waterways aren’t exactly a walk in the park, but with a bit of patience (and maybe a map open on your phone), you’ll be swimming – or, well, bug-crawling – through them in no time. Good luck, and happy exploring!