Hollow Knight: Silksong is once again stirring excitement – and confusion – after its brief spotlight at the Xbox Games Showcase 2025. During the event, Xbox president Sarah Bond mentioned that the long-anticipated Metroidvania would be “available at launch and in Game Pass when the ROG Ally X releases later this year.” Naturally, fans began buzzing with the idea that Silksong might be tied to the holiday debut of Xbox’s newest handheld. But Team Cherry was quick to clarify: that’s not what’s happening.
Posting in the game’s official Discord server, marketing manager Matthew ‘Leth’ Griffin addressed the speculation head-on. 
“I confirmed BEFORE Holiday,” Griffin wrote, referencing the holiday season. And yes, he clarified, that means before Christmas. More importantly, he emphasized that the game is not tied to the ROG Ally X’s launch or any specific console release. That subtle but important distinction clears up the confusion sparked by Bond’s phrasing.
Interestingly, fans won’t have to wait too long to get a taste of Silksong. The game is set to be playable at Australia’s ACMI (the national museum of screen culture in Melbourne) from September 18. This has led many to believe the actual launch could happen around that time – potentially offering a September or early October release.
Many expected a surprise drop or at least a definitive date during the Xbox event, especially after a string of stealthy updates to the Steam page hinted at movement behind the scenes. But instead, the Showcase’s shadow drop spotlight went to the long-awaited PC release of Final Fantasy 16, leaving Silksong enthusiasts once again in suspense.
Still, it’s not all gloom. A “before Christmas” confirmation at least narrows the window, giving fans hope they’ll finally return to Hallownest’s haunting beauty within the next six months. Until then, the wait continues – but at least now, there’s a calendar frame to pin hopes on.