All Simple Key Locations Hollow Knight Complete Key Guide

Exploring the interconnected caverns of Hallownest requires sharp navigation skills and a keen eye for hidden items. Among the most useful utility items scattered throughout the subterranean kingdom are the four Simple Keys, which grant access to locked subareas, unique vendors, and optional boss challenges. Finding every single one ensures that you do not leave any mysteries unsolved in Team Cherry's atmospheric metroidvania.

Purchasing from the Crossroads Merchant

The easiest key to obtain can be bought directly from a vendor named Sly in the fading town of Dirtmouth. Before he sets up his shop, you must first venture down into the Forgotten Crossroads and rescue him from a strange, dream-like stupor. Once saved, he will sell you the first key for a reasonable fee of Geo, allowing you to unlock early structures like the mysterious locked cave right on the edge of town.

Searching the City Storerooms

The second key requires you to descend into the rain-swept architecture of the City of Tears, a massive zone filled with tough sentries and intricate elevators. Navigate toward the alcoves located directly beneath the City Storerooms stag station to locate a hidden corridor guarded by several flying enemies. Tucked away safely in a stone alcove, you will discover the item resting on a long-abandoned corpse that rewards thorough map exploration.

Delving Deep into the Ancient Basin

To secure the third key, you must push further south into the dark and desolate tunnels of the Ancient Basin. This dangerous area features a crumbling maze where dangerous royal guards once protected the deep secrets of the king. You will need to carefully bypass the aggressive, agile insects guarding a massive broken shell of a prehistoric creature. Inspecting the glowing cavity within this dead beast reveals the item hidden securely within its remains.

Conquering the Colosseum of Fools

The final key is located far to the northeast within the gladiatorial arena known as the Colosseum of Fools. Reaching this vertical landmark requires navigating through the acidic pools of the Fog Canyon and the snowy peaks of the Kingdom's Edge. You must look for a breakable wall hidden in the corridors right before entering the main staging arena. Defeating the elite trial warrior guarding this secret chamber grants you access to the final lockpick needed for your collection.

Unlocking Secret Encounters and Content

Gathering every key allows you to access major side content that alters your journey, such as Sly, the merchant who unlocks rare inventory upgrades once fully established. The remaining keys grant entry to the Pleasure House hot springs in the city, the Royal Waterways sewers, and the mysterious cocoon housing the Grimm Troupe content. Opening these unique doorways ensures you can achieve maximum completion percentage and witness everything the dying kingdom has to offer.